Exploring the Original Pre-Retconned Version of 'The Hobbit'

When readers and collectors express a desire for the original, pre-retconned version of The Hobbit, several options present themselves. This article aims to guide you on how to find this rare edition and why it is worth pursuing for bibliophiles and scholars alike.

The Future of The Hobbit in 2043

According to prevailing information, The Hobbit will become available in the open domain as of 2043. By 2043, the broad availability of digital repositories such as Project Gutenberg and other sources will likely make the original version more accessible. However, until then, be wary of any online versions that may still be infringing copyright.

John D. Rateliff’s History of The Hobbit

To satisfy the thirst for the original version, John D. Rateliff has published a comprehensive collection of Tolkien’s drafts and versions. This work, titled History of The Hobbit, was released in the United States in 2007 or 2008 in two volumes: Mr. Baggins and Return to Bag End. These volumes can be found in libraries and used book stores, offering a detailed look into the evolving narrative. A revised one-volume edition was later released in the UK under the title The History of The Hobbit. With a little effort, a copy can be obtained.

Original First Editions and Other Resources

If financial means permit, collectors can acquire an original first edition of The Hobbit from sellers of rare books. An example of such a listing can be found in Amazon's listing, which describes it as 'a...'. The first edition was published in 1937, making it a highly sought-after item. The second edition, with significant changes such as Gollum's involuntary giving of the Ring to Bilbo, was copyrighted in 1951. The third edition, released in 1966, contains minor changes.

Alternatively, scholars looking for a comprehensive and detailed version can explore John R.V. Vintage's The History of The Hobbit. This scholarly work compiles all the early drafts and versions of the narrative, including unpublished manuscripts and notes, offering extensive editorial commentary. While it does not present the text as a continuous narrative, it provides exact details from the original version, making it invaluable for those interested in the evolution of Tolkien's creative process.

Conclusion

Whether you are a collector of rare first editions or a scholar of Tolkien's works, exploring the original pre-retconned version of The Hobbit is an endeavor that promises both rare satisfaction and deep insight into the author's creative journey. The resources available today, from Rateliff's scholarly works to original first editions, provide a rich tapestry of the narrative's development.