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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. In Chapter 16, who does Bilbo deal with and offer his share of the treasure to, along with the Arkenstone?

2. What does Bilbo deduce from seeing the smoke and steam issuing from the Front Gate?

3. What animals or creatures can be found near the doorstep?

4. Why is Bard astonished when the thrush lands on his shoulder?

5. What does the Master believe about Thorin and his company at first?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Bilbo's attitude differ from that of the dwarves in Chapter 9?

2. Explain the meaning of the ambiguous or riddling answers Bilbo gives to Smaug to avoid revealing his name to the dragon (and thus giving the dragon power over him)?

3. What is the dwarves' original plan or strategy?

4. Why does only the Black Arrow shot by Bard manage to kill Smaug while all other arrows are harmless?

5. How is Bilbo able to take and hide the Arkenstone without the dwarves knowing?

6. Why does Bilbo give the Arkenstone to Bard the Bowman?

7. What can be deduced about the dragon from the steam and smoke coming out from the Front Gate?

8. Describe what the Master of Laketown is like in your own words.

9. Upon what does Bard the Bowman base his claim to a share of the dragon's treasure?

10. Why does Bombur remain in the lower camp with the ponies and supplies in Chapter 11?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The contrast between light and darkness is often used as a symbol of the contrast between good and evil. Does The Hobbit use this symbolism so that light always represents or symbolizes good while darkness always represents or is associated with evil? Give examples to illustrate your answer.

Essay Topic 2

Are any stereotypes or cliches used in The Hobbit? If so, what are they? If not, what are some things that make The Hobbit fresh and original?

Essay Topic 3

Bilbo's character is described as having a "Baggins" side and a "Tookish" side, both of which struggles for dominance inside him.

Part 1: Describe Bilbo's "Baggins" part of his nature.

Part 2: Describe the "Tookish" side of Bilbo's nature.

Part 3: Choose an incident (apart from the start of the book) where the two sides of his nature seem to be in conflict. Which side wins?

(see the answer keys)

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