(Numbers indicate the chapter you should refer to.)
When the dwarves entered Bilbo Baggins home his character was revealed. What did you learn about him?(1)
Why does Bilbo follow the dwarves’ commands?(2-4)
What behavior of the trolls causes their downfall?(2-4)
Bilbo frequently thinks about being home. What do those times have in common?(5-7)
What causes Gandalf to decide that it is time to leave the quest?(5-7)
Bilbo has many skills that emerge during his experiences in the forest. What are some of them and how do they help him?(8-10)
What was Bilbo’s first job as a burglar?(8-10)
In what ways have the dwarves let Bilbo down? How does Bilbo differ from them?(11-13)
In spite of the Dragon’s reaction to Bilbo’s taking the cup, why do the dwarves take so much treasure from his lair?(11-13)
Why did the dragon leave the palace and attack Esgarath?(14-16)
Why is Bilbo willing to end his quest with the killing of Smaug, while Thorin is not?(14-16)
What reputation did Bilbo lose?(17-19)
Discussion Questions
Galfand says to the dwarves and Bilbo as he leaves them at the edge of Mirkwood, "We may not meet again before it is all over, and then again of course we may not. That depends on your luck and on your courage and sense…" What part did luck, courage, and sense play? Cite specific examples of each and show their importance.
At the beginning of the tale, Tolkien remarks that, "He (Bilbo) may have lost the neighbors’ respect, but he gained—well, you will see whether he gained anything in the end." Do you think he gained anything? If so, what is it?
