After Quote by J. R. R. Tolkien
“It is plain indeed that in spite of later estrangement Hobbits are relatives of ours: far nearer to us than Elves, or even than Dwarves. Of old they spoke the languages of Men, after their own fashion, and liked and disliked much the same things as Men did. But what exactly our relationship is can no longer be discovered.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Lord of the Rings, 1954
Hobbits share a common ancestry with humans, making them closer to us than elves or dwarves, though their exact relationship is now lost.
In simple terms: Hobbits are human relatives, distinct from elves and dwarves.
Appreciate the shared roots of different cultures.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- literary analysis
- world‑building
- comparative mythology
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What does this shared ancestry suggest about cultural connections?
- How does mystery enhance storytelling?
The exact lineage is ambiguous, leaving room for speculation.