[Cameron Waite]

Barliman Butterbur is the inkeeper of the Prancing Pony, an inn located in Bree. The Hobbits stopped there on their original journey to Rivendell. Barliman, though knowing little about the affairs outside of Bree nor the importance of Frodo's mission, aided the hobbits with food and other supplies. He is very forgetful yet kind hearted and harmless. I rather like the fellow myself. This is a rather vague interpretation of him, undoubtedly more learned Barrow Downs members could give you a better explanation.