n the Lonely Mountains years before. He has resided here even since, collecting treasure and killing anything that bothered him. Many have tried to free the mountain of him but his,"flaming breath . . . , his huge wings . . . , and his armor-like hide is almost impenetrable.” (Gardner 1). Smaug is not an easy foe and should be watched closely by all that dares go nearhim. The combination of the major characters and the setting in The Hobbit makes it possible for the trials in the novel to take place.There are six primary trials in The Hobbit. Each one contains details that capture the imagination and further helps to shape the overall theme of the novel. The first trial is at the gathering of the adventures that are going on a journey to recapture the dwarves homeland. This trial is not a physical one, but a mental one for Bilbo Baggins. Gandalf, the wizard, and the dwarves in the party are trying to talk Bilbo into joining them on their adventure. Bilbo, like most hobbits, is not very adventurous. He does, however, have a side of his family that is said to have gone on adventures. As described by Tolkien, “ . . . something not entirely hobbit likeabout them, and once and awhile members . . . would go and have adventures.” (3). This is Bilbo’s problem, because one minute he does not want to go on the adventure and the next minute he is starting to like the idea of it. Bilbo is very mature about the whole situation and listens to everything Gandalf and the dwarves have to say. They tell Bilbo the purpose of the adventure and why they need him. Bilbo, somewhat reluctantly, finally agrees to aid the party intheir journey. No sooner has the party of adventures left Bilbo’s home then they are confronted with their second trial and Bilbo wishes he was still in his home. The party has been traveling through the forest outside of Bilbo’s homeland when they encounter three trolls. Trolls are v...
