The Role of Food in The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

            There is no questioning that food plays an important role in J." Whether or not this idea of food, or a meal, is directly or indirectly referenced, it plays a considerable role in tracing the development of the characters throughout this novel. Tolkien's continuous reference to the concept behind a meal is directly connected to the notion of being a hospitable and generous individual and it highlights the ideas of a community, togetherness, and comfort. Throughout this novel, we are able to trace the development of Bilbo as a hero by examining situations where there are references to his desire for food.
             As we learned early on in the novel, hobbits typically consume around six meals a day, if they can get them, and these meals are exceptionally important to their lifestyle. In just the first chapter of this novel, "Unexpected Party,"" there is an almost overwhelming amount of discussion of food. Gandalf sends the dwarves into Bilbo's home to feast, one small group at a time, in order to truly test his sense of hospitality. Gandalf is assessing Bilbo's worthiness of the coming adventure and determining whether or not he is fit for what follows.
             Bilbo, and hobbits alike, appear to base their lives around the idea of comfort. They are a species that is not known for great adventure, but instead a kind of people who are considered to be more of an upper middle class, and aren't known to break the rules. "I am looking for someone to share in an adventure that I am arranging, and it's very difficult to find anyone.' "I should think so "in these parts! We are plain quiet folk and have no use for adventures. Nasty disturbing uncomfortable things! Make you late for dinner!" "(5 Tolkien). Early on, at this point in the novel, Bilbo is hesitant and uncertain about the voyage to Lonely Mountain and because of this, he instantly resorts back to referencing his fear of possibly missing a future meal.