In the Hobbit Gandalf is an old friend to not only Bilbo, but to the other Hobbits of the Shire. In the first few chapters Gandalf plays a central role in getting the adventure started. In the opening chapter Gandalf is there to prepare Bilbo for the arrival of Thorin Oakenshield and the other dwarves, Gandalf stays with them until he feels they are ready to be left in Bilbo's care. Like all good mentors in stories, Gandalf leaves the hero to finish the quest on his own. Other mentors are seen in the characters like Elrond and Beorn, just to name a few.
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