J.R.R. Tolkien created what is known widely accepted some of the best works of fiction ever written. Having his work be called "escapist" was considered badge of honor to him for several reasons. To understand Tolkien's work you particularly his first glimpse into the land of Middle Earth, "The Hobbit", the reading must envelope themselves in what Tolkien is urging us to escape into and what he was wanting us to escape from. The Hobbit was written after World War I. It is easy to see how a young man; a soldier could fantasize realms millions of miles apart from the death and despair that surrounded him and an entire generation of young men in England at the time.
The Hobbit is a work of fantasy, not just because of the mythical creatures that reside in Middle Earth (dwarves, dragons,goblins etc.) but most of these creatures also live in many of Tolkien's influences, such as Beowulf, Norse mythology and Grimm fairy tales. It is a fantasy because of the feelings it instills in the reader. It's completely transcendent of time and can transport you mentally and emotionally to the characters stories.When The Hobbit was written, it was well into the 20th century and The Great War introduced the world to modern weapons such as tanks, airplanes and chemical warfare; the likes of which had not been seen or used. The Hobbit takes us to a much simpler place. Middle Earth is filled with war, death, despair, and evil incarnate. However, the wars are fought creature to creature; man to man, with swords and axes and the evils of the world are more black & white.
The good in The Hobbit is pure, idealistic, almost infantile in its goodness. Bilbo is a reluctant hero (much like Tolkien himself as a soldier,) yet he does what is right and conquers his fears. Bilbo Baggins is a simple, settled hobbit who would was content in his complacency in The Shire. Never having a passing thought he would one day be going on an adventure, meeting different creatures, and slaying a dragon. He is awe and in wonder of the worlds beyond The Shire and all the creatures around him. The Hobbit is a work of fantasy that is excessible and easy to escape into because Bilbo is a likable character and you want to want see him do well and you encounter other characters you take pity on as well.
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