A Dip into Fantasy

Untouched by the evils of men, free from the pressure of the modern world, fantasy has always been a place of solitude. A person’s inner thoughts and imaginary creations run free in the depths of fantasy. It is here where epic battles between good and evil occur, illustrating the balance between what is just and what is corrupt.

Although a picture of fantasy being an escape pops out into your mind, do not be fooled because fantasy is actually an entrance. It is a way to enter the human soul and all its insights without the elements of the outside world. Through fantasy, we learn of truths and an underlying reality, expanding the reader’s horizon.

Back to the time of the Greeks, stories, odes and epics were used to depict the different mindsets and ideas of the past. Incorporating the impossible such as the monsters, gods and invincible men, the literature of the Greeks influenced fantasy through the aspects of the unimaginable and values.

Through the way literary works of mythology were created, J.R.R. Tolkien, the author of The Hobbit, was able to create a beautiful and vivid image of a time born in imagination and yet, still reflecting modern day values. Not so much of integrating our lives into the story, but more of showing that through an extraordinary and different experience can such values be truly grasped and appreciated. Just as mythology, portrayed how the incredible and yet unreal adventures of men and gods would lead to a lesson or a moral value being taught to the main characters in the end.

Without Greek-Roman mythology, fantasy as we know it would disappear. People would not be able to see the world in a perspective that only fantasy can capture, a vibrancy and color that is born from the imagination and fabricated with magic. The likes of the “realistic” would never be able to grasp this and be limited to a dull and gray view of the world and what it has to offer. Fantasy based books like The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien would have never been brought to existence and Bilbo would have never discovered his capacity to be an adventurer, a leader and a hero.

The Call to Adventure

Bilbo, a normal, quiet and peaceful hobbit, begins the story by answering a strange knock on his door. To his surprise, it is an old wizard named Gandalf who suddenly invites him to join a journey of epic proportions. Inviting Bilbo to escape the life of his unadventurous and quiet father and explore his mother's brave and outgoing lineage.

The First Helper

Gandalf was a wizard Bilbo had heard many amazing stories from. He had always known about this mysterious and strange world, but has never taken the initiative to escape his safe place. Gandalf is the first to assure and assist him of this world. With his help, Bilbo is able to finally escape his father's shadow and take a leap of faith into the unknown.

The Crossing

Due to unforeseen circumstances and the relentless persuasion of Gandalf, Bilbo finally leaves the shire, doubtful and frightened of what to expect.

Tests

In the course of his adventure, Bilbo encounters many tests. His first real experience was with trolls. Using his quick wit, he was able to develop his keen ability to escape dire situations.

Group of Helpers

Bilbo was actually hired as a burglar for a group of dwarves. These dwarves were going on a journey to recapture their lost kingdom. On the way, these dwarves have shown loyalty and skill, allowing Bilbo to discover his hidden potential and open himself to his abilities.

Supreme Ordeal

Bilbo has always been afraid to escape his shell. Unwilling and unable to accept that there was another side to him; Bilbo had always remained in his hobbit hole. During the journey, Bilbo starts to emerge. He becomes brave, fearful, witty, and deceitful. He starts to recognize and acknowledge this knew side of his, but this only leads to a conflict. A war between what he used to love and what he now knows of. The turning point happens when he accidentally falls asleep. He awakes on the foot of tree and sees a vicious spider ready devour him. Grabbing his sword, he stabs the spider and emerges victorious. His courage builds up and he realizes that there is a fearless and killer within him. Appropriately, he gives his sword a name, "Sting". All of his new qualities are fully manifested in his encounter with Smaug. The dwarves send Bilbo off to gather information and get piece of evidence from the wealth of Smaug. Smaug detects Bilbo, but is unable to see him. Bilbo uses all his newfound qualities to elude the wrath of Smaug and survive.

Flight

Like every hero who has triumphed over the great evil, Bilbo begins his journey back to his roots, back to the peaceful days in the hobbit hole. It is here that the transition from new to old Bilbo slowly begins to occur. This part of the journey indicates to all that no matter how grand or amazing an experience we go through, we must eventually return to normalcy.

The Boon

Bilbo is quite contented with finally being home, but to his surprise, he is visited by Gandalf and a dwarf to recount the amazing journey they had all shared.

Whether we were aware or unaware, mythology has always been a great force in our lives. Many of the stories and movies we have grown up with have been greatly influenced by mythology. Although gods or monsters may not be present, the idea and elements used in mythology are very evident. Even our lives today have hints and clues of mythology at work. In my case, I have started to notice a pattern in our lives. Just as Bilbo was invited from his normal life into a strange world, in some point of our lives, we will be called to escape the routine we have grown too comfortable with. Once a fantasy to us, will soon become a chance to see things in a different perspective and gain a greater purpose.