Greed and Its Implications in J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit
In J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit, greed is a prominent theme that plays a significant role in the narrative. The psychological and ethical complexities surrounding greed are vividly depicted, weaving through the characters' motivations and actions, ultimately influencing the story’s outcome. This essay explores the role of greed in The Hobbit and its parallels with other thematic elements present in the work.
The Role of Greed in The Hobbit
The adventure of The Hobbit begins with the descent into greed instigated by the dragon Smaug. Smaug, consumed by his hoard of gold and treasure, exemplifies the destructive power of greed. Without Smaug's greed, the events that unfold—such as the quest for the Lonely Mountain, the feuding between the dwarves and the men of Rivertown, and the eventual betrayal and redemption—would not have been possible. Greed serves as a catalyst for the narrative, creating the necessary conflicts and challenges faced by the protagonists.
Greed and the Dwarves
The dwarves, particularly Thorin Oakenshield, represent the internal struggle with greed in the story. Thorin's fixation on the Arkenstone, a heirloom of great value, is a manifestation of his desire to reclaim his right as the rightful heir to his throne. This obsession with material wealth goes beyond mere greed and delves into a deeper psychological realm. Thorin's refusal to negotiate peace with the men of Rivertown, despite their justification for a share of the treasure, highlights his own mistrust and fear of relinquishing control. His greed leads to confrontation and division, not just among his own kind but also with the elves and the men who believed they were owed restitution. The Arkenstone serves as a representation of Thorin's unwillingness to share, which ultimately aids Smaug in his return to the Lonely Mountain and the subsequent battle with theovy bearers.
Thorin's Dilemma and Redemption
Thorin’s greed is further juxtaposed with the ultimate sacrifice made by other characters, such as Gloin's son Oin, who also becomes a hero in the battle. True heroism and redemption come through acts of selflessness and the willingness to let go of personal obsessions. Thorin, upon his return, recognizes the error of his ways and the importance of unity and peace. This transformation is vital to the resolution of the story, demonstrating that even the most hardened of characters can change and find redemption.
The Role of Gandalf
Gandalf, the wise wizard, plays a pivotal role in the story’s moral and ethical dimensions. His fear of what he might become if he were to wield the One Ring is a testament to the corrupting influence of greed and power. Gandalf’s refusal to take the Ring and his decision to give it to the more readily adventurous but ultimately true hearted Frodo are key moments that underscore the theme of greed. Gandalf’s fear that he might become a monster, as powerful and self-righteous as Sauron, highlights the theme of moral ambiguity and the potential for personal corruption. Gandalf’s trust in others, despite his own apprehensions, reflects the idea that even heroes have limitations and must rely on the strength and goodwill of others.
Ethical Diminishment and Love
The question of whether a truly great work of art or literature can be centered around an emotion as morally dimming as greed brings up broader philosophical and ethical considerations. Love and its struggle with hate are the central themes of The Lord of the Rings. Love, encompassing virtues such as courage, friendship, personal development, and acceptance, is the backbone of the narrative. The theme of love extends beyond mere human emotions to encompass the struggle between life and death. Sauron and Morgoth are not merely driven by greed but by a darker ambition that seeks to control and extinguish life itself. The journey of Frodo and his allies is, at its core, about the preservation of love and life against the forces of hate and destruction.
Conclusion
The role of greed in The Hobbit is multifaceted, serving as a catalyst for conflict and a source of personal and moral struggle. While greed is undoubtedly a significant theme, the narrative ultimately emphasizes the triumph of love and the importance of choosing the right path, even in the face of personal temptation. The exploration of greed in The Hobbit not only enriches the storytelling but also invites readers to reflect on the human condition and the complex dynamics of moral choices.