Why Didn't Beorn Save the Dwarves in The Hobbit?

The critical plot point in The Hobbit, where the dwarves are captured by orcs, presents a significant challenge to many readers. Often, attention is drawn to Gandalf's role in the story, including his timely arrival and heroic actions. Yet, the character of Beorn, known for his strength and knowledge of the wilderness, is a central figure in the tale. So, why doesn't Beorn save the dwarves when they are taken by orcs?

Notable Occurrences and Gandalf's Role

As is clearly explained in the relevant chapter of The Hobbit, Gandalf was waiting for the right opportunity. J.R.R. Tolkien understood that hasty “rescues” can quickly turn disastrous. His experience teaching at Oxford and his deep understanding of narrative structures informed this decision.

Continuity and Authorial Intent

A word of caution on continuity: authorial intent is crucial. As Tolkien crafted The Hobbit and later The Lord of the Rings, he did not reveal everything that happened before meeting each character. To him, it mattered that his story unfolded organically, and he controlled the information carefully.

Beorn's Indirect Support

Beorn does provide support in ways that might not be immediately obvious. He comes just in time to slay the goblin leader, protecting the dwarves from further harm. He then uses his staff to shield them from the orcs and ensures their safety until his eagle friends arrive to rescue them. Beorn's help manifests subtly, aligning with his character as a powerful, mysterious figure with ties to the natural world.

Gandalf's Role and Authorial Philosophy

Gandalf's role as a mentor to the characters is not limited to rescuing them from every peril. His purpose is to provide quests that are exciting and challenging but not to perform them for them. The idea that a wizard should intervene every time someone encounters a problem is fundamentally misguided, as it fosters dependency and discourages personal growth.

Lazy Characters: A Critique

If people can rely on wizards for every obstacle, then they become fat, lazy, and ultimately useless. While The Hobbit presents a range of characters, including Hobbits, it emphasizes the need for the characters to find their agency and solve problems on their own. Only a few, like Bilbo, hang tales through their personal journeys and decisions.

Beorn's Specific Actions

Beorn's help extends beyond the initial rescue. He aids the dwarves in navigating the mountains, leading them safely through and out the other side. His assistance may seem indirect, but it is integral to the story's progression. Additionally, he helps Bilbo, who wanders off and ultimately finds the Ring and Gollum, leading to one of the most famous sagas in literature.

Beorn's character is a nuanced blend of strength, wisdom, and mystery. His actions, though subtle, are crucial to the story. The absence of his direct intervention in the capture scene does not diminish his importance but rather highlights Tolkien's deliberate narrative structure.

Conclusion

Beorn's role in the tale may not always be upfront, but his contributions are significant. His actions, while not as overt as Gandalf's, are nonetheless pivotal. Understanding Beorn's character and his strategic involvement helps readers appreciate the complexity and depth of Tolkien's narrative. Gandalf's role, too, is more than just rescue; it's about empowering the dwarves to overcome their challenges through their own wit and courage.