Nob

Overview

Tolkien Gateway identifies Nob as a Bree hobbit employed with Bob at Butterbur’s Prancing Pony. His work includes serving food and attending to guests. On 29 September 3018, the four visiting Shire-hobbits become involved in danger outside that ordinary hospitality: Merry disappears during an evening walk, and Nob finds him near Bill Ferny’s house.

Nob then helps disguise the hobbits’ beds and keeps watch, although the inn is attacked that night. The article records him still working at the Pony when the travellers return on 28 October the following year. The name’s origin remains uncertain: the article reports Hammond and Scull’s possible rhyme with Bob, alongside a possible connection to Robert suggested by Tolkien’s grouping of Nob with Hob and Rob.

First appearances & development

Literary character; community-mediated account.

Canon & continuity

Complete article and credited native artist reference inspected.

Selected bibliography

Documented works and useful reading. This is not a list of every appearance.

1. 01

   Nob

   Tolkien Gateway contributors

Family & connections

A source-supported family tree or inspiration record has not yet been compiled for this profile. Related reading below indicates a connection in subject matter, not a proven lineage or creative influence.

References

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1. Attributed community accountNobResearch access: 2026-10-23

Image credits

AI-generated original interpretation.