The Epic Battle of the Five Armies in The Hobbit

The Hobbit, a timeless fantasy novel written by J.R.R. Tolkien, has captivated readers for decades with its enchanting tale of adventure and heroism. Published in 1937, this prequel to The Lord of the Rings trilogy takes readers on a thrilling journey through Middle-earth, introducing them to a host of memorable characters and epic battles.

One of the pivotal moments in The Hobbit is the climactic Battle of the Five Armies. This battle serves as the grand finale of the story, bringing together various factions in a conflict of epic proportions. But who exactly are these five armies?

The first army to enter the fray is the army of the Dwarves. Led by Thorin Oakenshield, these brave warriors seek to reclaim their ancestral homeland of Erebor, the Lonely Mountain, which has been occupied by the fearsome dragon, Smaug. The Dwarves are determined to restore their kingdom and reclaim the vast treasures that lie within the mountain’s depths.

Next, we have the army of the Elves, led by Thranduil, the Elvenking of Mirkwood. The Elves have their own stake in the battle, as they seek to secure a share of the treasure for themselves. However, their motivations go beyond mere greed, as they also aim to ensure that the dragon’s presence is eliminated, as it poses a threat to their realm.

The third army to join the conflict is the army of Men from the town of Dale. These Men, led by Bard the Bowman, are caught in the middle of the conflict, as they are directly affected by the dragon’s presence. They too have a desire for the treasure, but their primary concern is the safety and well-being of their people.

The fourth army is the army of the Orcs and Goblins, led by the fearsome Azog the Defiler. These dark creatures have long been enemies of the Dwarves and are drawn to the Lonely Mountain’s riches. Their intent is to conquer the mountain and all its wealth, spreading chaos and destruction in their wake.

We have the fifth army, which consists of various creatures and beasts that dwell in the Misty Mountains, including giant eagles and the shape-shifting Beorn. These creatures, though not bound by allegiance to any specific faction, are drawn into the conflict due to their own personal motivations or a desire to aid their allies.

The Battle of the Five Armies is a sprawling clash of swords and sorcery, where alliances are tested and destinies are forged. It serves as a turning point in the story, where the fate of Middle-earth hangs in the balance. It is a battle of epic proportions, showcasing the bravery, sacrifice, and camaraderie of the characters involved.

As the battle unfolds, alliances shift and unexpected heroes emerge, ultimately leading to a resolution that sets the stage for the events of The Lord of the Rings trilogy. The Battle of the Five Armies is a testament to the power of unity and the triumph of good over evil in the face of incredible odds.

The Hobbit is a captivating tale of adventure, and The Battle of the Five Armies is its thrilling climax. The five armies involved in this epic conflict include the Dwarves, Elves, Men, Orcs, and various creatures from the Misty Mountains. This battle serves as a turning point in the story and showcases the bravery and heroism of its characters. It is a battle that will forever be remembered in the annals of Middle-earth.

Is The Battle Of The 5 Armies In The Hobbit Book?

The Battle of the Five Armies is indeed a part of The Hobbit book, written by J.R.R. Tolkien. The book, originally published in 1937, tells the story of Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who is swept into an unexpected adventure with a group of dwarves and the wizard Gandalf. Throughout their journey, Bilbo and the company of dwarves encounter various challenges and obstacles, culminating in the epic Battle of the Five Armies.

In the book, the Battle of the Five Armies takes place near the Lonely Mountain, where the dwarves aim to reclaim their homeland and treasure from the dragon Smaug. The five armies involved in the battle are the Dwarves, Elves, Men, Goblins, and Eagles. The battle is a pivotal moment in the story, as it determines the fate of the Lonely Mountain and its inhabitants.

It is important to note that Peter Jackson’s film adaptations of The Hobbit deviate from the original book in some aspects. While The Battle of the Five Armies is indeed a significant part of the book, the film adaptation expands on the battle and presents it in a more action-packed and visually stunning manner.

what are the five armies in the hobbit

Who Won The Battle Of The 5 Armies?

The Battle of the Five Armies, as depicted in J.R.R. Tolkien’s novel “The Hobbit,” resulted in a victory for the alliance of the Dwarves, Elves, and Men. This epic battle took place near the Lonely Mountain, also known as Erebor, and involved various factions. Let’s break down the outcome and the parties involved:

1. The Dwarves of Erebor: Led by their king, Thorin Oakenshield, the Dwarves fought valiantly to reclaim their homeland and the vast treasure within the Lonely Mountain. They were skilled warriors, armed with axes, swords, and bows.

2. The Elves of Mirkwood: Under the command of King Thranduil, the Elves joined forces with the Dwarves to prevent the evil forces from gaining control over Erebor. They brought their archery skills, agility, and swords to the battle.

3. The Men of Dale: Representing the human faction, the Men of Dale, led by their ruler King Bard, also participated in the conflict. They brought their own unique weaponry and fighting styles to the battlefield.

On the opposing side were the enemy forces, which included:

1. The Orcs of Mount Gundabad: Led by Azog the Defiler, the Orcs sought to conquer Erebor and claim its riches for themselves. They were fierce, brutal warriors, equipped with various weapons like swords, axes, and spears.

2. The Goblins of Misty Mountains: Joining the Orcs were the Goblins, who inhabited the Misty Mountains. They were known for their swarming tactics and viciousness in battle.

3. The forces of Dol Guldur: This was the stronghold of the Necromancer, a powerful dark entity later revealed to be Sauron. The Necromancer’s forces also joined the Orcs and Goblins in their quest to dominate Erebor.

Despite being outnumbered and initially overwhelmed, the alliance of Dwarves, Elves, and Men managed to turn the tide of battle. Their unity, courage, and strategic coordination allowed them to push back the enemy forces. Ultimately, Thorin Oakenshield and his allies successfully defended Erebor, defeating the opposing armies.

It is important to note that the Battle of the Five Armies resulted in significant losses on both sides. However, the ultimate victory went to the alliance of Dwarves, Elves, and Men, securing the liberation of Erebor and safeguarding its riches from falling into the hands of evil forces.

What Is Bilbo’s Role In The Battle Of Five Armies?

Bilbo, the protagonist of J.R.R. Tolkien’s novel The Hobbit, plays a crucial role in the Battle of the Five Armies. Despite being a small and unassuming hobbit, Bilbo utilizes his newfound courage and wisdom acquired during his unexpected journey to help unite two warring factions, the dwarves and the elves, against the common enemy of swarming Orc and goblin armies.

Bilbo’s role in the battle can be summarized as follows:

1. Mediator: Bilbo acts as a mediator between the dwarves, led by Thorin Oakenshield, and the elves, led by King Thranduil. He uses his diplomatic skills and understanding of both sides to bridge the gap and foster a truce between the two feuding groups. His unbiased perspective and ability to see the bigger picture enable him to bring the dwarves and the elves together for a common cause.

2. Peacemaker: Bilbo’s ultimate goal is to prevent unnecessary bloodshed and find a peaceful resolution to the conflict. He recognizes that the real threat lies in the approaching Orc and goblin armies, who pose a danger to all parties involved. By convincing the dwarves and the elves to put aside their differences and focus on the larger enemy, Bilbo helps to prevent further division and ensure the survival of both groups.

3. Strategist: Bilbo’s keen intellect and resourcefulness prove invaluable during the battle. Drawing upon his experiences and knowledge gained throughout his journey, he offers strategic advice and suggestions to the leaders of both factions. His insights help the united armies to formulate effective battle plans and tactics, maximizing their chances of victory against the overwhelming enemy forces.

4. Heroic actions: Despite his small stature and lack of combat experience, Bilbo demonstrates great bravery and heroism during the battle. He actively participates in the fighting, using his wits and the legendary sword Sting to defend his comrades and make a significant impact on the battlefield. His courage inspires those around him and serves as a reminder that even the most unlikely individuals can rise to the occasion and make a difference.

Bilbo’s role in the Battle of the Five Armies is that of a mediator, peacemaker, strategist, and hero. Through his wisdom, courage, and ability to unite different factions, he helps to bring harmony and ensure the survival of the dwarves and the elves in their fight against the common enemy.

How Many Dwarves Survive The Battle Of Five Armies?

In the Battle of the Five Armies, a total of thirteen Dwarves from the company led by Thorin Oakenshield participate. Unfortunately, at the end of the novel, three of them meet their demise. These Dwarves are Thorin himself, along with Fili and Kili.

However, the remaining ten Dwarves manage to survive the battle. Out of these ten, Glóin, one of the Dwarves, informs Frodo that seven of them continue to stand by the side of Dáin, the newly acclaimed King Under the Mountain. These seven Dwarves are Dwalin, Dori, Nori, Bifur, Bofur, Bombur, and Glóin himself.

Out of the original thirteen Dwarves, three die in the Battle of the Five Armies, leaving ten survivors. And among these survivors, seven choose to stay loyal to Dáin, who becomes the King Under the Mountain.

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Conclusion

The Hobbit is a timeless and beloved fantasy novel that takes readers on an epic adventure through Middle-earth. Written by J.R.R. Tolkien, this captivating tale introduces us to a diverse range of characters, including the protagonist Bilbo Baggins, who embarks on a journey that tests his bravery and transforms him into a hero.

Throughout the story, Tolkien weaves a rich tapestry of mythical creatures, stunning landscapes, and intricate plotlines. The world-building is masterful, transporting readers to a realm filled with magic, danger, and wonder. From the peaceful Shire to the treacherous Misty Mountains and the haunting forest of Mirkwood, each location is vividly described, immersing readers in the enchanting world of Middle-earth.

One of the greatest strengths of The Hobbit is its ability to appeal to readers of all ages. While it is a children’s book, it contains profound themes of courage, friendship, and the battle between good and evil. Tolkien’s lyrical prose and attention to detail create a sense of depth and authenticity that captivates readers, regardless of their age or background.

The characters in The Hobbit are also incredibly well-developed and relatable. Bilbo Baggins, in particular, undergoes a remarkable transformation from a timid and reluctant adventurer to a courageous and resourceful hero. His growth and development serve as a powerful reminder that even the most ordinary individuals can accomplish extraordinary things.

Furthermore, The Hobbit serves as a prequel to Tolkien’s monumental work, The Lord of the Rings. It introduces key elements and lays the foundation for the events that unfold in the later trilogy. This connection adds an additional layer of depth and significance to the story, making it a must-read for fans of the larger Middle-earth saga.

The Hobbit is a true masterpiece of fantasy literature. Its timeless themes, captivating storytelling, and unforgettable characters have solidified its place as a classic in the genre. Whether you are a seasoned fantasy enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of Middle-earth, this enchanting tale is sure to leave a lasting impression.

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William Armstrong

William Armstrong is a senior editor with H-O-M-E.org, where he writes on a wide variety of topics. He has also worked as a radio reporter and holds a degree from Moody College of Communication. William was born in Denton, TX and currently resides in Austin.