The Fellowship of the Ring

In The Fellowship of the Ring, Tolkien not only constructs a world of intricate landscapes and diverse species but also weaves a cultural tapestry that richly details the customs of hospitality unique to each group. How does the author illustrate the significance of hospitality in Middle-earth, and what does this tell us about the various cultures and characters within the novel? Consider these points as you reflect on the text to answer the question.

• How do the Hobbits, Elves, and Men show hospitality differently, and what does that tell us about their societies and values?
• Reflect on a moment in the book in which the lack of hospitality signals danger or hostility. How does this contrast with other moments of welcome and what effect does it have on the story?
• Meals are often a time of bonding in the story. Discuss how sharing food serves as more than just eating, but also as a way to bring characters closer together or to forge alliances.

Teaching Suggestion: Students may have varying ideas of what constitutes hospitality in their own culture, so this may be an opportunity for them to share their knowledge and background with classmates. For a small group approach to this question, students might work together to create a chart showing characteristics and elements of good hospitality versus descriptions of poor hospitality; this also could be done as a whole class discussion before students address the prompt individually.