Bilbo

Bilbo Baggins is a fictional hobbit created by J.R.R. Tolkien and a central figure in the Middle-earth legendarium. He is introduced as a quiet, unadventurous resident of Bag End in Hobbiton, The Shire, who nevertheless harbors a streak of curiosity inherited from his Tookish side. He is the titular hero of The Hobbit (1937) and plays a pivotal supporting role in The Lord of the Rings (1954–1955).

In The Hobbit, Bilbo accompanies a company of dwarves led by Thorin Oakenshield on a quest to reclaim the Lonely Mountain and its treasure from the dragon Smaug. Guided by Gandalf, he proves instrumental through cunning, courage, and occasional luck. During the journey, he acquires the One Ring, a ring of power that renders its bearer invisible. He uses this ability to survive dangers and to help complete the quest. The party ultimately defeats Smaug and restores some of the dwarves' homeland, while Bilbo departs with treasure and a changed outlook.

After his return to the Shire, Bilbo records his adventures in There and Back Again, which is part of the Red Book of Westmarch, a chronicle that later informs The Lord of the Rings. In the later tale, he bequeaths the Ring to his heir, Frodo Baggins, and leaves Middle-earth for the Undying Lands alongside hobbits and wizards.

Bilbo's character is widely regarded for his humor, resourcefulness, and development from a sheltered resident into a capable traveler. His discovery of the Ring links his story to the wider conflicts that define Tolkien's work. He has been portrayed in various media, notably by Ian Holm in The Lord of the Rings and by Martin Freeman in The Hobbit film series.