Initially, Bilbo is a timid and hesitant hobbit who is reluctant to embark on the quest to reclaim the Lonely Mountain from the dragon Smaug. He is given a sword by Gandalf the wizard, but it remains nameless and unassuming, much like Bilbo himself.
As Bilbo faces various challenges and obstacles during the quest, he begins to show courage, resourcefulness, and leadership qualities he never knew he possessed. He proves to be a valuable asset to the company of dwarves, and his reputation grows among them.
The turning point in Bilbo's character arc occurs during a confrontation with a giant talking spider named Shelob. Bilbo is caught in Shelob's web and is about to be devoured when he remembers the sword he carries. In a moment of desperation, he calls out the name "Sting" and the blade glows with a bluish light, slicing through the spider's web and freeing him.
This event symbolizes Bilbo's transformation from a mere hobbit into a true hero. The act of naming his sword "Sting" signifies his newfound confidence and the awakening of his inner strength. He becomes more assertive, decisive, and proactive in his role within the company.
From that moment on, Bilbo is no longer the same hesitant hobbit he was at the beginning of the journey. He has earned the respect and trust of his companions and has become a crucial member of the quest. The renaming of his sword from a nameless object to "Sting" serves as a powerful symbol of his personal growth and the journey he has undertaken.