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the fellowship of the ring: chapter one, “a long-expected party”

The title of the opening chapter harkens back to The Hobbit’s “An Unexpected Party.” Just like that story, this one eases us into the fantasy setting by beginning in Hobbiton in the Shire, a region which, from its landscape to its inhabitants, resembles an idealized English countryside. Spending time here also helps us feel for Frodo later when he must leave it behind in order to keep it safe, and strengthens our desire to see his safe return. The Shire becomes home for us just as it is for Frodo.

This chapter compells us to keep reading by posing very troubling questions about the nature of the ring. For readers of The Hobbit especially, Bilbo’s seeming addiction to this piece of jewelry is jarring, particularly when his defensiveness about it leads to him making some rather nasty accusations against Gandalf, one of his dearest friends. It’s a genuine relief when it’s out of his possession and he instantly becomes much more himself. Now, though, the ring has been left to Frodo, and we’re left to worry about what kind of effect it will have on him. 

But really, my main response to this chapter is to wonder why no one ever seems to talk about how funny Tolkien’s writing can be. I’m constantly entertained by how relatable these hobbits are. The snarky messages Bilbo leaves with the items he gives away always make me smile, and the wordplay in the line about Lobelia Sackville-Baggins taking the point but also taking the spoons is delightful.



favorite quote

I don’t know half of you half as well as I should like, and I like less than half of you half as well as you deserve.

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