"The Hobbit," written by J.R.R. Tolkien, features a rich cast of characters, each contributing to the story in their unique ways. Here's a brief overview of the main characters: 1. **Bilbo Baggins**: He is the protagonist or the main character of the novel. Bilbo is a hobbit, a small, homely, and comfortable creature who enjoys a peaceful life. His journey from an unadventurous hobbit to a brave and resourceful hero forms the core of the narrative. 2. **Gandalf**: A wise and powerful wizard who plays the role of a guide and mentor. He is the one who introduces Bilbo to the world of adventure and orchestrates the quest to reclaim the dwarves' treasure from the dragon Smaug. 3. **Thorin Oakenshield**: He is the proud and stubborn leader of the group of dwarves and is the heir to the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor. His quest to reclaim his homeland and treasure from Smaug drives the plot forward. 4. **Smaug**: An intelligent and fearsome dragon who sits upon the stolen treasure of the dwarves in the Lonely Mountain. He represents the primary antagonist for a significant part of the story. 5. **The dwarves**: Thorin's company includes Fili, Kili, Oin, Gloin, Dori, Nori, Dwalin, Balin, Bifur, Bofur, Bombur, and Ori. Each dwarf has his own distinct personality, but as a group, they all seek to reclaim Erebor and its treasure from Smaug. 6. **Gollum**: A creature who once possessed the One Ring, he lives in the depths of the Misty Mountains. His encounter with Bilbo leads to the finding of the One Ring by the Hobbit, which plays a central role in the later "The Lord of the Rings" series. 7. **Bard the Bowman**: A man of Lake-town (Esgaroth), Bard is the one who ultimately kills Smaug. He emerges as the leader of his people and the restorer of Dale. 8. **Beorn**: A shape-shifter who can transform into a bear, Beorn aids Bilbo and the dwarves by providing them shelter and assistance after they escape the goblins. 9. **Saruman, Elrond, and Galadriel**: While they have smaller roles in "The Hobbit" compared to "The Lord of the Rings," these wise and powerful characters help the adventurers at key moments in the story. 10. **The Master of Lake-town**: A greedy and manipulative politician, he is concerned with maintaining his position of power and wealth in Lake-town. 11. **The Great Eagles**: Majestic creatures that come to rescue Bilbo and the dwarves at critical moments, symbolizing the unexpected help that comes when all hope seems lost. These characters all add depth and color to the narrative of "The Hobbit," and their interactions with Bilbo lead to growth and change within him. While the story is fantastical, it explores universal themes such as courage, greed, companionship, and the journey of self-discovery.