The Hobbit: The Battle Of The Five Armies: A Comprehensive Guide

Rajiv Sharma

6 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

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The Armies Involved: A Closer Look

The Battle of Five Armies is aptly named, featuring a complex web of alliances and rivalries. Understanding the motivations and key players within each army is essential to fully appreciating the battle's intensity and complexity.

• Thorin's Company: This band of dwarves, led by the determined but increasingly obsessed Thorin Oakenshield, are fighting to reclaim their ancestral home, Erebor. Their ranks include brave warriors like Balin and Dwalin, and the valiant brothers Kili and Fili. Bilbo Baggins, despite his initial reluctance, plays a crucial role, demonstrating unexpected courage and resourcefulness. Their primary motivation is the reclaiming of Erebor and its treasure. Internal conflicts arise from Thorin's growing obsession with gold and his distrust of others.

• The Elven Army: Commanded by the regal but somewhat cautious Thranduil, King of the Mirkwood Elves, this army joins the battle primarily to protect their interests and secure their share of the spoils. Legolas, Thranduil's son, proves his unparalleled skill in archery and his loyalty to his father and his people. Their motivation centers on reclaiming the treasures taken by Smaug and ensuring the safety of their kingdom.

• The Men of Lake-town: Led by the courageous Bard, the men of Lake-town seek retribution for Smaug's destruction of their homes and the loss of their livelihoods. Their grievances extend to the dwarves, initially perceived as beneficiaries of Smaug's demise and the resulting wealth. Their participation in the battle is driven by a desperate need for justice and rebuilding their lives.

• The Wargs and Goblins: Under the brutal command of Bolg, Azog's son, this formidable force comprises numerous savage wargs and cunning goblins. Their motivation is fueled by a thirst for violence, plunder, and revenge against the dwarves and the other armies that stand in their path. Their sheer numbers make them a truly terrifying adversary.

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The Battle's Key Moments and Turning Points

The Battle of Five Armies is a chaotic and thrilling spectacle, punctuated by several defining moments that shaped its outcome.

• The Initial Goblin Assault: The battle begins with a relentless onslaught from Bolg's goblin army, unleashing chaos and overwhelming the dwarves' initial defenses. This opening sequence establishes the scale and brutality of the conflict.

• The Arrival of the Elves and Men: The strategic intervention of the elves and men significantly alters the balance of power, shifting the conflict from a simple dwarf versus goblin clash into a multi-sided battle.

• Thorin's Stand on the Mountain: Thorin Oakenshield's courageous and desperate defense of Erebor's entrance is a pivotal moment, highlighting his unwavering determination and his tragic flaw of greed turning into fierce pride and protective instinct.

• The Deaths of Kili and Fili: The deaths of Kili and Fili are devastating losses for Thorin and his company, triggering a profound shift in his perspective and paving the way for his redemption.

• The Eagles' Arrival: The unexpected arrival of the Eagles, loyal to Gandalf, offers crucial support to the beleaguered forces, delivering a powerful turning point in the battle.

• Bard's Killing of Smaug (though technically before the Battle): While technically preceding the Battle of Five Armies, Bard's slaying of Smaug is the inciting incident that sets the stage for the multi-sided conflict. It fundamentally alters the power dynamics in the region.

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Character Arcs and Development in the Battle

The Battle of Five Armies serves as a crucible for significant character development, particularly for Thorin Oakenshield and Bilbo Baggins.

• Thorin's Transformation: Thorin's journey through the film showcases a remarkable arc. His initial obsession with reclaiming Erebor's treasure and the dragon sickness consumes him, but the battles' losses and the sacrifice of his kin forces a profound change in his perspectives, leading to a form of acceptance and ultimately, a heroic sacrifice.

• Bilbo and Thorin's Bond: The relationship between Bilbo and Thorin deepens significantly throughout the battle. Bilbo's unwavering loyalty and courage reinforce his bond with Thorin, despite the dwarf's initial distrust. This highlights the unlikely friendship forged during their shared ordeal.

• Bard's Growth: Bard, initially driven by revenge, ultimately demonstrates leadership and compassion. His actions show his evolving understanding of the situation and his desire to help his people rebuild.

• Legolas's Prowess: Legolas showcases his exceptional skill and daring throughout the battle, further cementing his position as one of Middle-earth's most capable warriors.

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The Legacy of The Battle of Five Armies

The Battle of Five Armies leaves a lasting impact on the world of Middle-earth. The landscape is altered, relationships are redefined, and the balance of power is reshaped. The themes explored—greed, war, sacrifice, and ultimately redemption—leave a powerful legacy for the future of the Tolkien Legendarium.

• Political Landscape: The aftermath of the battle significantly impacts the relations between dwarves, elves, and men, setting the stage for future interactions and alliances.

• Erebor's Restoration: The reclaiming of Erebor and the subsequent rebuilding efforts impact the economic and political state of the region, creating new relationships and potential conflicts.

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A Final Look at The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies

The Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies is more than just a thrilling battle sequence; it's a powerful narrative exploring themes of greed, loyalty, and redemption, interwoven into the broader tapestry of Tolkien's Middle-earth. The film's powerful visuals and character arcs leave a lasting impression, solidifying its place within the beloved Tolkien legendarium. Dive deeper into the epic world of The Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies – rewatch the film, read the books, and share your thoughts!