Compare and Contrast Essay

Rowen Heap

Compare and Contrast; Murphy and Bilbo

“A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.” As Christopher Reeve explains. These two characters have many similarities, yet also many differences. It is worth while to compare these three characteristics between these two interesting people. The quest for this essay is to reveal the truth about Ms. Murphy, that she is... “A small, old and dwarf-like creature, which preys on 9th grade high school students.” (Urban Dictionary)

Physical traits are often very deceiving, these two people are great examples of this. For example, Bilbo, is a small hairy fellow; Where as Murphy is a small Dwarf that walks on stilts, hiding in the safety of her 'Murphy Suit'. Bilbo lives in a Hobbit hole in a nice, calm village , but Murphy lives in a 'Townhouse' as she calls it, but it is really a cave located in downtown Victoria. Bilbo is a 'Posh', well dressed man, that keeps to the English traditions of tea, and clean living. Ms. Murphy wears a variety of styles, all very nice and interesting; For example, a small red and blue, wool sweater that appears to belong to Maya, or maybe even it's her favourite dwarven sweater!

Both of these characters have very important jobs. Bilbo Baggins must defeat Smaug, the dreaded dragon. Where as Ms. Murphy has to teach Nathan, Spencer, and Rowen. Bilbo’s job, has hardened his personality, making him a much stronger person, both physically and mentally. Murphy has a fun time laughing at all of the childish jokes her class says. Bilbo goes through a lot of tough times without food, and without sleep. Ms. Murphy Stays up late every night mining in the bowls of the earth where a known vein of Cheerio’s, that only Murphy knows about, is found; She slaves away day and night trying to feed her hungry daughter, Maya. Bilbo was called to his job, or 'quest', by a wizard and some Dwarves that brought him along; while Murphy was called upon by her bosses to attempt the impossible... teach our class.

Bilbo and Ms. Murphy's personalities are quite interesting. Bilbo tries to be heroic and always pursue the final goal, of killing Smaug and stealing his treasure. Murphy acts happy and contempt at school and around all of her lovely students. But, while she's home she is angry and takes out her rage with boxing lessons on Saturdays and Sundays; some sort of awesome Brazilian, kung-fu, ninja training; and last but not least, scuba diving!

In the end, these two characters are very similar, they both are hiding their fear and anger. Bilbo Baggins is a respectful, nice and well spirited man. He is an incredible character because he overcame his fears, of fighting dragons, and also becoming a wanted thief, I think this gives everyone a reason to look up to this little, hairy man! As for Ms. Murphy, although she has this strange personality, she is still an amazing teacher and her class respects her for putting up with them in their time of need. All in all, both Murphy, and Bilbo are great examples of roll models, and people to look up to!

The End