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What is the general consensus in shire concerning Bilbos and Frodos state of mind?

There's no single, unified "general consensus" in the Shire about Bilbo and Frodo's state of mind, just as there isn't in any real community.

Here's what we can glean from Tolkien's writing:

* Bilbo:

* Initially: He's seen as eccentric, a bit odd, and perhaps slightly "touched" by his adventures. This is evident in the way people whisper about him and his "riddles" and "adventures."

* After the party: After his departure and the revelation of his vast wealth, there's a sense of awe and admiration for him. However, there's also a lingering unease about his strange habits and behavior, like disappearing into the woods and his "changes."

* Overall: People generally respect him as a great hobbit with a fascinating past, but some find him a little unsettling.

* Frodo:

* Initially: He's generally regarded as a kind and gentle hobbit, but also a bit quiet and prone to brooding. Some see him as "too serious" for his age.

* After the Ring's arrival: There's a growing sense of worry about Frodo's increasing withdrawal, his gaunt appearance, and his strange preoccupation with the Ring. The events of the journey are a source of great anxiety for his neighbors, and they worry for him, even if they don't fully understand what's going on.

* Overall: People care for Frodo and miss his former self, but they find him increasingly difficult to understand and interact with after he takes possession of the Ring.

Importantly: Tolkien doesn't explicitly state a "general consensus" in the Shire. Instead, he shows us a range of reactions and opinions, mirroring the complexity of human (or hobbit) psychology and social dynamics.

To summarize:

* Bilbo is generally respected but also seen as strange and different.

* Frodo is generally loved and cared for but also seen as withdrawn and mysterious.

Their state of mind is ultimately a matter of individual interpretation, influenced by their experiences and the nature of the Ring.

Monologues

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