Representations of Friendship and the Construction of Collective Identity in J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit: A Cultural Critical Study

Abstract

This study aims to analyze representations of friendship and its role in constructing collective identity in J. R. R. Tolkien's novel The Hobbit from a cultural-critical perspective, focusing on the relationships between the main characters and how these relationships reflect values ​​of belonging, cooperation, and loyalty. The research problem stems from the limited number of studies that have addressed friendship as a cultural tool contributing to the formation of collective identity within the fictional world, especially given the greater emphasis placed on the mythological and religious aspects of Tolkien's works. The study adopted a descriptive-analytical approach based on cultural criticism and the analysis of literary texts and film adaptations of the novel, while also drawing on modern critical literature related to fandom, film adaptation, and identity. The findings revealed that friendship in the novel is not merely a personal relationship, but plays a pivotal role in establishing values ​​of solidarity and cooperation and shaping a sense of collective belonging among both the characters and the audience. Furthermore, the film adaptations have contributed to reinforcing this emotional and cultural dimension. The study recommends expanding future research on the impact of film adaptations and digital fandom on reshaping cultural identity in contemporary fantasy literature.