The Return of the King

by

J. R. R. Tolkien

Bilbo Baggins Character Analysis

Bilbo is Frodo’s cousin, and his adventures to the Misty Mountains many years ago led to his friendship with Gandalf. A previous bearer of the Ring, Bilbo resides in Rivendell as Elrond’s guest until the War of the Ring, when his surprising long life and health begin to fade. He leaves Middle-earth on the ship with Elrond, Gandalf, Galadriel, and Frodo.
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Bilbo Baggins Character Timeline in The Return of the King

The timeline below shows where the character Bilbo Baggins appears in The Return of the King. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.
Book 6, Chapter 4
Expectation vs. Ability Theme Icon
Loyalty, Love, and Sacrifice Theme Icon
...Frodo will need to be locked up and forced to write it all down, otherwise Bilbo would be very disappointed. The friends disperse to rest. (full context)
Book 6, Chapter 6
Loyalty, Love, and Sacrifice Theme Icon
...for permission to leave the city. Before returning to the Shire, he wants to visit Bilbo in Rivendell. He was disappointed that Bilbo didn’t make the journey to Minas Tirith with... (full context)
Loyalty, Love, and Sacrifice Theme Icon
...they should head back to the Shire quickly, but Frodo insists he needs to visit Bilbo in Rivendell first. After a few more days, they camp for a while so that... (full context)
Power, Wisdom, and Mercy Theme Icon
...for the Shire. Gandalf will escort them as far as Bree. Frodo says goodbye to Bilbo, who tells him he’s getting very sleepy. Bilbo gives gifts to the four hobbits and... (full context)
Book 6, Chapter 9
Loyalty, Love, and Sacrifice Theme Icon
...Sam to join him on a journey. Sam thinks Frodo is going to Rivendell for Bilbo’s birthday, and says he feels “torn in two” not to be able to be with... (full context)
Loyalty, Love, and Sacrifice Theme Icon
...Elrond and Galadriel in the group. They are each wearing one of the Three Rings. Bilbo follows, riding on a pony. He asks Frodo if he’s ready for another journey. Sam... (full context)