J. R. R. Tolkien's miniature masterpiece 'The Hobbit' is a great introduction to his writing, as it lays the groundwork for his epic trilogy, 'The Lord of the Rings'. In this ten week course, we will enjoy and appreciate his witty, entertaining, exciting and inspiring storytelling skills through a mixture of class discussion and writing activities, as well as plenty of quick quizzes to help the knowledge stick and build confidence.

Between classes, students will read a section of the novel, which will be reviewed in each class. We will then focus on key moments in the novel where we see Bilbo Baggins, the novel's hero, developing as a character. Tracing the development of the protagonist in this way will provide a key to deeper appreciation of the novel, as we see how Bilbo gains many things through the course of the story that are far more valuable than any dragon's treasure.

The class schedule will be as follows:

Week One: Introduction and detailed focus on how Bilbo makes up his mind to go on an adventure in Chapter One. Homework to read Chapters One and Two.
Week Two: Chapters One and Two review and detailed focus on how Bilbo begins his adventurous career when he encounters three trolls. Homework to read Chapters Three and Four.
Week Three: Chapters Three and Four review and detailed focus on how Bilbo reacts when he meets the elves of Rivendell. Homework to read Chapters Five and Six.
Week Four: Chapters Five and Six review and detailed focus on how Bilbo impresses the dwarves when he escapes from the Misty Mountains. Homework to read Chapters Seven and Eight.
Week Five: Chapters Seven and Eight review and detailed focus on how Bilbo develops heroic characteristics in Mirkwood. Homework to read Chapters Nine and Ten.
Week Six: Chapters Nine and Ten review and detailed focus on how, in Mirkwood, Bilbo becomes not only a hero but a leader. Homework to read Chapters Eleven and Twelve.
Week Seven: Chapters Eleven and Twelve review and detailed focus on how Bilbo shows great courage when he descends into Smaug's lair. Homework to read Chapters Thirteen and Fourteen.
Week Eight: Chapters Thirteen and Fourteen review and detailed focus on how Bilbo struggles with the bewitching influence of treasure. Homework to read Chapters Fifteen to Seventeen.
Week Nine: Chapters Fifteen to Seventeen review and detailed focus on Bilbo's daring plan to negotiate with the Elvenking and Bard. Homework to read Chapters Eighteen and Nineteen.
Week Ten: Chapters Eighteen and Nineteen review and detailed focus on how Bilbo has changed by the end of the novel.