Description
The Hobbit: Facsimile First Edition (2001) is a meticulous reproduction of the original 1937 edition of The Hobbit, offering readers a chance to experience J.R.R. Tolkien’s classic just as its earliest readers did. This edition replicates every detail of the original publication, from the distinctive dust jacket artwork designed by Tolkien himself to the interior layout, including original maps, illustrations, and even typesetting choices. This facsimile not only honors the visual and textual aspects of the first edition but also preserves Tolkien’s initial narrative choices before he made revisions to align The Hobbit more closely with The Lord of the Rings.
In this early version, readers find subtle differences in language, especially in Gollum’s dialogue and in the riddle game with Bilbo, where Gollum originally offers his prized possession—the One Ring—more willingly. These differences provide fascinating insights into Tolkien’s evolving concept of Middle-earth and the role of the One Ring, which would become central to his later works. The facsimile edition also includes an introductory note on Tolkien’s revisions, providing context for these changes.
