20th Annual Student Research Conference
Language & Literature
Of Hobbits and Lacan:
Bilbo’s Journey to Reconnect With His Mother
Jennifer L. Massa
Dr. Hena Ahmad, Faculty Mentor
According to psychoanalyst Jacques Lacan, a child’s connection to his or her mother is essential in the early stages of the child’s life. In this paper, I will examine J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit (1937) through the Lacanian lens by analyzing protagonist Bilbo Baggins’ motive behind joining a company of dwarves on a dangerous expedition, which contradicts the docile nature of a hobbit. Baggins goes with the dwarves because of his childhood inability to connect with his mother on a sufficient level due to her own suppression of her inner adventurous nature. Because Baggins does not have that connection, much later in his life he unconsciously seeks to follow in his mother’s footsteps by going on his own journey, and finally becomes one with his Took family heritage.
Keywords: Lacan, hobbit, mother, connection, suppression, adventure, motive, child
Topic(s):English
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 7-3
Location: OP 2117
Time: 8:45 am