exactly what did they teach in hobbit schools?

[Beatrice]

Okay, first they say Sam learned his letters from Bilbo who was booklearned or whatever. But then later when Sam is reciting his Troll poem it says he felt like he was back in school or something.

Mr. Bilbo has learned him his letters

That's the Gaffer talking in The Ivy bush.

Standing up, with his hands behind his back, as if he was at school

And THAT'S Sam standing up to sing his Troll song. So what's the deal? If Bilbo taught Sam his letters what did they teach at school? How to grow pipeweed?

[ September 25, 2002: Message edited by: Beatrice ]