Early Warnings of Danger:
* The "empty" chair at Bag End: This foreshadows the arrival of Gandalf and the subsequent events that will draw Bilbo into a perilous journey.
* The ominous atmosphere of the Troll's cave: The darkness, the terrifying echoes, and the trolls' hunger foreshadow the danger that Bilbo and the dwarves will face.
* The warning signs about the Misty Mountains: The dwarves' caution about the "horrors" that lurk in the mountains foreshadow the danger they will encounter with Goblins, Wargs, and the giant spider.
Bilbo's Growing Courage and Transformation:
* The riddles with Gollum: This encounter foreshadows Bilbo's ability to think on his feet and his growing sense of confidence.
* The "unexpected party" line: This recurring phrase, first mentioned by Gandalf, foreshadows the unexpected turns of events that will shape Bilbo's journey.
* Finding the One Ring: This event marks a turning point in Bilbo's character and foreshadows the importance of the Ring in the later *Lord of the Rings* trilogy.
Hints of a Larger Conflict:
* The dragon Smaug: The sheer size and power of Smaug, as well as the dwarves' fear of him, foreshadows a difficult battle that will require all their courage and skill.
* The mentions of "dark shadows" and "evil forces": These references subtly foreshadow the existence of Sauron, the ultimate villain in *The Lord of the Rings*, and the larger conflict brewing beyond the borders of Middle-earth.
The Unexpected Adventures of Bilbo:
* Gandalf's constant reminder of the "adventure": This foreshadows that the journey will be filled with unexpected challenges and opportunities.
* The "there and back again" theme: While seemingly simple, this theme foreshadows that Bilbo's journey will be a journey of self-discovery and transformation.
Foreshadowing in *The Hobbit* creates a sense of anticipation and suspense. It allows the reader to connect the dots and appreciate the subtle hints that lead to the unfolding events and the character development of Bilbo Baggins.