1. A Respite and a Misunderstanding
The Hobbit Pages

2. The Lonely Mountain
Figurative language and situational irony used to emphasize the evil nature of the mountain and Bilbo’s sense that this is not a good place.

3. For your consideration
Bilbo indicates that he is lucky to have gotten this far. Is that true? Are some other factors at work? If so, what are they?

4. Getting Along
Tolkien uses the word “bickering” to clarify his negative tone toward the arguments between elves and men.
Cooperation, not fighting, leads to good things.
This, combined with the dragon’s influence, Sauron’s influence, and the absence of the dwarves, whom the men consider almost part of legend themselves, has led to the land’s decline in hospitality.

5. For your consideration
What technique is Tolkien using when he says Gandalf was “...finishing his other business...and getting ready to come in search of Thorin’s company?” (175)
What technique is being used when he says that the mountain “seemed to frown?” (175)
What feelings are enhanced with the use of each technique?

6. The Men of Lake Town
Tolkien focuses on pages on an initial characterization of the people of the town.
They are hard-working and bold to live so close to the mountain.
However, they are examples of two major themes:
Those that seek to restore the past are doomed to fail
Those motivated by power and greed more than friendship and selflessness are doomed to fail

7. Thorin and Bilbo
Situational irony in play contrasting Thorin’s status among the dwarves with his appearance after the barrel ride
Bilbo convinces him to get moving using juxtaposition in service of logos and advice to ignore pathos

8. For your consideration
Thorin’s use of his full name seems to help him overcome his messy appearance and get people’s attention.
What theme does this advance?

9. Song Time
Once again, the song of the Lake-Town folks reveals much about them.
What motivates them more than anything?
How might they be misunderstanding their own song a bit?

10. Foolishness
Tolkien uses third person omniscient point of view to remind the readers that the Master does not really think of the dwarves as being potentially successful.
Why is Bilbo the only one who does not fall into the trap of overconfidence?

11. Leadership and Heroism
Again, Tolkien is able to provide some contrasts in leadership styles and manners of heroism.
How does the Master of Lake-Town compare to Thorin in terms of leadership qualities? What leader does he most resemble in style?
How do both Bilbo and Thorin show some heroic qualities during this episode? How do their leadership qualities differ?