The Hobbit and Philosophy For When You've Lost Your Dwarves, Your Wizard, and Your Way

A philosophical exploration of J.R.R. Tolkiens beloved classic-just in time for the December 2012 release of Peter Jacksons new film adaptation, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey J.R.R. Tolkiens The Hobbit is one of the best-loved fantasy books of all time and the enchanting "prequel" to The Lord of the Rings. With the help of some of historys great philosophers, this book ponders a host of deep questions raised in this timeless tale, such as: Are adventures simply "nasty, disturbing, uncomfortable things" that "make you late for dinner," or are they exciting and potentially life-changing events? What duties do friends have to one another? Should mercy be extended even to those who deserve to die? Gives you new insights into The Hobbits central characters, including Bilbo Baggins, Gandalf, Gollum, and Thorin and their exploits, from the Shire through Mirkwood to the Lonely Mountain Explores key questions about The Hobbits story and themes, including: Was the Arkenstone really Bilbos to give? How should Smaugs treasure have been distributed? Did Thorin leave his "beautiful golden harp" at Bag-End when he headed out into the Wild? (If so, how much could we get for that on eBay?) Draws on the insights of some of the worlds deepest thinkers, from Confucius, Plato, and Aristotle to Immanuel Kant, William Blake, and contemporary American philosopher Thomas Nagel From the happy halls of Elronds Last Homely House to Gollums "slimy island of rock," The Hobbit and Philosophy is a must read for longtime Tolkien fans as well as those discovering Bilbo Baggins and his adventures "there and back again" for the first time.

Gregory Bassham is Chair of the Philosophy Department at King's College and a professor of philosophy. He is co-editor of The Lord of the Rings and Philosophy (2003), The Chronicles of Narnia and Philosophy (2005), and Basketball and Philosophy (2008). Eric Bronson is a visiting professor in the Humanities Department at York University in Toronto, Canada. He is the editor of Poker and Philosophy (2012), and co-editor of The Lord of the Rings and Philosophy (2003) and Baseball and Philosophy (2011). William Irwin is Professor of Philosophy at King's College. He originated the philosophy and popular culture genre of books as coeditor of the bestselling The Simpsons and Philosophy and has overseen recent titles including House and Philosophy, Batman and Philosophy, and Alice in Wonderland and Philosophy.