The Hobbit | Characteristics of Species

The Population of Middle-Earth

J.R.R. Tolkien populated Middle-earth with a wide array of creatures. Each type of creature has its own set of characteristics and abilities.

Hobbits

• half the height of humans
• have large furry feet
• little to no magic abilities
• good sense of direction
• recover quickly from injuries
• sneak around without making noise
• love comfort and normalcy
• comfortable underground

Dwarves

• taller than hobbits and stockier
• both genders grow beards
• can cast spells and make fire
• extremely strong
• sing and play instruments
• loyal and fierce
• jealous—also whine and complain
• miners and blacksmiths

Trolls

• giant in stature
• some two-headed
• eat humans, dwarves, and hobbits
• dim-witted
• love to fight
• live underground; venture above ground at night
• turn to stone if above ground in daylight

High Elves

• tall as humans
• have magical abilities
• have gift of prophesy
• kind, tranquil
• warriors

Wood Elves

• tall as humans
• have magical abilities
• at one with nature
• suspicious, wary of strangers
• joyful
• love wine

Goblins

• varied height from hobbit-sized to human-sized
• make cruel weapons; love torture
• evil
• miners and blacksmiths

Birds

• helpful
• wise
• vocal
• potential friends to elves and dwarves
• messengers