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The Hobbit Facts & Worksheets

"The Hobbit," full title "The Hobbit, or There and Back Again," is a classic fantasy novel written by British author J.R.R. Tolkien. It was first published in 1937 and serves as a prelude to Tolkien's more extensive and well-known work, "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy.

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“The Hobbit,” full title “The Hobbit, or There and Back Again,” is a classic fantasy novel written by British author J.R.R. Tolkien. It was first published in 1937 and serves as a prelude to Tolkien’s more extensive and well-known work, “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy.

See the fact file below for more information about the Hobbit, or you can download our 28-page Hobbit worksheet pack to utilize within the classroom or home environment.

Key Facts & Information

THE AUTHOR

  • J.R.R. Tolkien, whose full name is John Ronald Reuel Tolkien, was a British writer, philologist, and academic, best known for his contributions to the fantasy genre and his creation of the Middle-Earth legendarium. 
  • He was born on January 3, 1892, in Bloemfontein, South Africa, and he passed away on September 2, 1973, in Bournemouth, England.
  • Key facts and highlights of J.R.R. Tolkien’s life and work include:
  • Middle-Earth Legendarium: Tolkien is most famous for his creation of Middle-Earth, a fictional world where the majority of his works are set. 
  • Middle-Earth is populated by various races, including humans, elves, dwarves, hobbits, and many other mythical beings. 
  • His most renowned works set in Middle-Earth include “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy, which are considered classics of fantasy literature.
  • “The Hobbit” (1937): Tolkien’s first foray into Middle-Earth was “The Hobbit,” a children’s novel that follows the adventures of Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who sets out on a quest with a group of dwarves to reclaim their homeland from the dragon Smaug. The book’s success led to his development of Middle-Earth and the writing of “The Lord of the Rings.”
  • “The Lord of the Rings” (1954-1955): Tolkien’s magnum opus, “The Lord of the Rings,” is a high-fantasy epic consisting of three volumes: “The Fellowship of the Ring,” “The Two Towers,” and “The Return of the King.” 
  • The story chronicles the journey of a diverse group of characters, including Frodo Baggins, Samwise Gamgee, and Aragorn, as they seek to destroy the One Ring and defeat the dark lord Sauron.
  • Philology and Academia: Tolkien was a distinguished philologist and academic specializing in Old English, Middle English, and Old Norse literature. He held various academic positions, including the Rawlinson and Bosworth Professor of Anglo-Saxon at the University of Oxford.
  • Languages and Worldbuilding: Tolkien’s deep interest in languages played a significant role in his creation of Middle-Earth. He developed multiple constructed languages, including Elvish languages like Quenya and Sindarin, and he used these languages to shape the cultures and histories of his fictional races.
  • Influence on Fantasy Literature: Tolkien’s works had a profound influence on the fantasy genre, setting a high standard for worldbuilding, character development, and epic storytelling. Many subsequent authors and creators have drawn inspiration from his writings.

THE HOBBIT – PLOT SUMMARY

  • The story begins when the wizard Gandalf chooses Bilbo to be the “burglar” for a group of thirteen dwarves led by Thorin Oakenshield. 
  • They are on a quest to reclaim their homeland, the Lonely Mountain, which was taken over by the dragon Smaug many years ago. The dwarves believe there is a hidden key and map that will guide them to the treasure within the mountain.
  • Bilbo is initially reluctant and overwhelmed by the dwarves’ enthusiasm for adventure. The company faces numerous challenges and encounters various creatures, including trolls, goblins, giant spiders, and elves. 
  • Along the way, Bilbo discovers a magical ring in Gollum’s cave, which will later become a pivotal element in the story.
  • The group eventually reaches the Lonely Mountain, and Bilbo uses his wits and the ring’s invisibility powers to sneak into Smaug’s lair. After a tense encounter with the dragon, Bilbo manages to steal a valuable cup and engage Smaug in conversation, learning about the dragon’s weaknesses.
  • The dwarves and Bilbo, along with the stolen treasure, become the target of various factions, including the Elvenking Thranduil and the Lake-men of Esgaroth, who seek a share of the riches. Additionally, the malevolent goblins and wargs gather for an assault on the Lonely Mountain.
  • The climax of the story occurs during the Battle of Five Armies, a fierce conflict involving the dwarves, elves, men, goblins, and wargs. Bilbo plays a crucial role in preventing further bloodshed by revealing the hidden treasure, which ultimately leads to a peaceful resolution.
  • In the aftermath, Bilbo and the surviving members of the company return to the Shire, where Bilbo has been absent for over a year. He finds his home has been auctioned off, and he is considered an oddity by his fellow hobbits. 
  • Despite these changes, Bilbo finds contentment in the simple pleasures of life and reflects on the transformative nature of his adventure.

THE HOBBIT – MAIN CHARACTERS

  • Bilbo Baggins: The protagonist of the story, Bilbo, is a hobbit who enjoys a quiet, comfortable life in the Shire. He is initially hesitant about going on an adventure but gradually grows into a courageous and resourceful character as he faces various challenges on the journey.
  • Gandalf: Gandalf is a wise and powerful wizard who plays a crucial role in orchestrating the adventure. He believes in Bilbo’s potential for heroism and convinces him to join the dwarves on their quest. 
  • Gandalf provides guidance and magical aid throughout the journey.
  • Thorin Oakenshield: Thorin is the leader of the company of dwarves and the heir to the throne of the Lonely Mountain. He is determined to reclaim the dwarves’ homeland from the dragon Smaug. Thorin’s pride and desire for the treasure lead to conflicts within the group.
  • Smaug: Smaug is the fearsome dragon that took over the Lonely Mountain and hoarded a vast treasure of gold and jewels. The dwarves’ quest centers on defeating Smaug and regaining their homeland.
  • Gollum: Gollum is a mysterious and pitiable creature that Bilbo encounters in a dark cave in the Misty Mountains. He possesses a magical ring, which Bilbo later acquires and which plays a significant role in “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy. The encounter with Gollum challenges Bilbo’s wits and morality.
  • The Company of Dwarves: The company consists of thirteen dwarves, including Thorin. Some of the notable dwarves in the group are Balin, Dwalin, Fili, Kili, Bombur, Bofur, and Ori. Each dwarf has a distinct personality and skill set.
  • Bard the Bowman: Bard is a resident of Lake-town (Esgaroth) and a key figure in the events surrounding the Lonely Mountain. He plays a crucial role during the Battle of Five Armies.
  • Thranduil: Thranduil is the Elvenking of the Woodland Realm, and his elves capture the dwarves and Bilbo during their journey. He has a complex relationship with the dwarves and plays a role in the events surrounding the Lonely Mountain.
  • Beorn: Beorn is a shapeshifter who can take the form of a bear. He provides shelter and assistance to the company during their journey through Mirkwood Forest and proves to be a valuable ally.
  • Elrond: Elrond is the wise and knowledgeable elf lord who resides in Rivendell. He assists the company with information and supplies and plays a crucial role in deciphering the runes on Thorin’s map.
  • The Trolls: Tom, Bert, and William are three trolls encountered by the company early in their journey. Bilbo and the dwarves must use their wits to escape the trolls’ clutches.
  • The Great Goblin: The Great Goblin is the ruler of the goblins who capture the company in the Misty Mountains. He plays a role in the company’s escape and subsequent pursuit.
  • These are some of the central characters in “The Hobbit.” The novel features a host of other creatures, both friendly and antagonistic, contributing to the rich and diverse world of Middle-Earth.

THE HOBBIT – SETTING

  • The Shire: The story begins in the Shire, a peaceful and idyllic region in the western part of Middle-Earth. It is the homeland of the hobbits, a small and unassuming people who value comfort, food, and simple pleasures. Bilbo Baggins’ comfortable hobbit hole, Bag End, is located in the Shire.
  • The Hobbiton: Hobbiton is the village in the Shire where Bilbo Baggins resides.
  • It is known for its quaint hobbit holes, lush gardens, and peaceful way of life. This is where Bilbo’s unexpected adventure begins when Gandalf and the dwarves arrive.
  • Misty Mountains: The Misty Mountains are a massive mountain range that the company of dwarves, along with Bilbo, must traverse on their way to the Lonely Mountain. The mountains are rugged, perilous, and inhabited by various creatures, including trolls and goblins.
  • Rivendell (The Last Homely House): Rivendell is the hidden elven refuge located in a lush valley in the Misty Mountains. It is ruled by Elrond and serves as a place of rest, healing, and council for the company after their escape from the goblins. It is a serene and mystical location.
  • Mirkwood Forest: Mirkwood is a dark and enchanted forest that the company enters after leaving Rivendell. It is a place of shadows, with twisting paths, giant spiders, and an overall sense of foreboding. The forest is known for its ability to disorient travelers.
  • Lake-town (Esgaroth): Lake-town is a human settlement located near the Lonely Mountain. It is built on a lake and serves as a trading post. 
  • The people of Lake-town are eager for the dwarves to succeed in their quest, as it may bring them riches.
  • The Lonely Mountain (Erebor): The Lonely Mountain, also known as Erebor, is the ultimate destination of the company’s quest. It is a massive, lonely peak that was once the home of the dwarves and their treasure. Smaug the dragon has taken up residence there, guarding the vast wealth.
  • Dale: Dale is a ruined town located near the Lonely Mountain. It was once a thriving community but fell into disrepair after Smaug’s arrival. The people of Dale hope for the dragon’s defeat and the restoration of their town.
  • The Desolation of Smaug: The area immediately surrounding the Lonely Mountain is a barren wasteland known as the Desolation of Smaug. It is a stark and desolate landscape created by the dragon’s presence.
  • The Battle of Five Armies: The climactic battle takes place near the Lonely Mountain and involves five armies: the dwarves, elves, men of Dale, goblins, and wargs. It is a fierce and chaotic conflict that determines the fate of the region.

THE HOBBIT – THEMES

  • Adventure: The central theme of “The Hobbit” is Bilbo Baggins’ unexpected journey and the adventures he encounters. It explores the transformative nature of stepping out of one’s comfort zone and embracing the unknown.
  • Courage: Bilbo, a hesitant and unassuming hobbit, discovers his courage throughout the narrative. The story demonstrates that even the most unlikely individuals can exhibit bravery when faced with challenges.
  • Friendship and Loyalty: Bilbo’s camaraderie with the dwarves and other characters showcases the strength of loyalty and the bonds formed during trials and tribulations. Friendship plays a crucial role in the success of their quest.
  • Greed and its Consequences: The dragon, Smaug, symbolizes the dangers of greed and possessiveness. Thorin’s fixation on the treasure in the Lonely Mountain leads to internal conflict and the risking of friendships.
  • Redemption and Change: Characters like Thorin Oakenshield undergo a transformation and learn from their mistakes. The narrative portrays the possibility of redemption and personal growth.
  • Nature and its Magic: The world Tolkien creates is filled with enchanting landscapes and mystical beings. The connection between nature and magic is a recurring theme, showcasing the beauty and wonder of the natural world.
  • Heroism: The story challenges the conventional notions of heroism, showing that heroism comes in various forms, often from unexpected sources and through smaller acts of bravery.

The Hobbit Worksheets

This fantastic bundle includes everything you need to know about the Hobbit across 28 in-depth pages. These ready-to-use worksheets are perfect for teaching kids about the Hobbit. The Hobbit was first published in 1937 and serves as a prelude to Tolkien’s more extensive and well-known work, “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy.

Complete List of Included Worksheets

Below is a list of all the worksheets included in this document.

  1. Literature: The Hobbit Facts
  2. The Hobbit: Summarized
  3. Book Review
  4. Crossword Characters
  5. My Favorite Character
  6. Trail of Events
  7. Inhabitants of Middle Earth
  8. View at Shire
  9. Smaug the Golden
  10. Relatable Values
  11. Book Design

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the main protagonist in “The Hobbit”?

The main protagonist is Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who is initially reluctant to embark on an adventure but eventually becomes a central figure in the quest to reclaim the Lonely Mountain.

What is the quest that Bilbo joins in “The Hobbit”?

Bilbo joins a quest led by the wizard Gandalf and a group of dwarves, including Thorin Oakenshield. The goal of the quest is to reclaim the Lonely Mountain and its treasure from the dragon Smaug.

Who is Gollum, and what role does he play in the story?

Gollum is a creature who lives in the dark caverns beneath the Misty Mountains. Bilbo encounters Gollum and, through a game of riddles, wins a magical ring that later becomes a crucial element in “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy.

What is the significance of the Arkenstone in “The Hobbit”?

The Arkenstone is a radiant and magical gem that becomes a symbol of the dwarves’ rightful claim to the treasure in the Lonely Mountain. It also plays a pivotal role in the unfolding events and conflicts within the story.

How does Bilbo change throughout the course of “The Hobbit”?

At the beginning of the story, Bilbo is a comfortable and unadventurous hobbit. However, as the journey progresses, he becomes more courageous, resourceful, and clever. By the end, he emerges as a hero, earning the respect of both dwarves and elves.

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Use With Any Curriculum

These worksheets have been specifically designed for use with any international curriculum. You can use these worksheets as-is, or edit them using Google Slides to make them more specific to your own student ability levels and curriculum standards.

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