we make fun of thorin getting lost in the shire but you know the nazgul also had to keep asking for directions to find bag end so maybe hobbits’ city planning is just wack
The Hobbits have spent generations making their roads complex af to keep Gandalf out
Theory accepted
Which is also why Gandalf is always late
but of course this is the absolute Least successful way to keep GANDALF of all people out, because-
- it’s a challenge
- that WON’T potentially kill him
which is really in short supply lately.
so while the hobbits think they are being hostile. what they are actually saying in Gandalf-speak is “please come back. we love you.”
Gandalf needs environmental enrichment
Gandalf asks for directions and hobbits are too entrenched in Manners to avoid answering a direct question. Gandalf finds the whole experience wonderfully fun.
The Nazgul also asks for directions. The experience is distressing to everyone, including the Nazgul.
Thorin does not ask for directions. Some hobbits try to help him anyway, activating his Sneer or Flight response.