The Hobbit: Chapter 15 - The Gathering of the Clouds

Summary

In this chapter from *The Hobbit*, Thorin and the dwarves, along with Bilbo, observe strange activity around the Lonely Mountain. Birds gather ominously, and an old raven named Roäc brings news that Smaug the dragon has been slain. However, with Smaug's death, armies of men and elves march towards the mountain, seeking a share of the treasure. Tensions rise as Thorin becomes defensive, refusing to negotiate while they are armed, setting the stage for a potential conflict over the mountain’s riches.

Takeaways

• 🦅 The dwarves observe many birds gathering, indicating something unusual happening.
• 🎯 Bilbo notices the return of the old thrush, which survived the dragon's attack.
• 🐦 Thorin and the others discuss the ravens, noting the historical bond between ravens and the people of Thror.
• 🧓 A wise old raven named Roäc delivers news that Smaug is dead, confirmed by the thrush.
• ⚔️ Roäc warns Thorin that elves and men are coming, seeking a share of the treasure, especially Bard, who killed Smaug.
• 🏰 Thorin and the dwarves begin fortifying the entrance of the mountain, preparing for a potential confrontation.
• 🪓 Fili and Kili are sent to retrieve ponies and supplies, adding some hope amidst the tension.
• 🎶 The elves and men camp near the mountain, with music and singing heard, but Thorin remains defiant and prepares for conflict.
• 🗣️ Bard, who killed Smaug, speaks to Thorin, claiming a portion of the treasure for the people of Dale and Esgaroth.
• 🏹 Thorin angrily refuses to share any treasure under threat, shooting an arrow at Bard's messenger, leading to a siege on the mountain.

Q & A

What is the significance of the birds gathering around the mountain?

The birds gathering around the mountain, particularly the crows and carrion birds, are a sign that something significant is happening. It foreshadows the death of Smaug and the coming conflict over the treasure of the Lonely Mountain.

Why is the old thrush important in this chapter?

The old thrush plays a crucial role in delivering important information. He tries to communicate with the dwarves and eventually brings the aged raven Roäc, who conveys critical news about Smaug's death and the impending conflicts.

Who is Roäc, and what role does he play in the story?

Roäc is an ancient raven who remembers the old friendship between the ravens and the dwarves. He brings news of Smaug's death to the dwarves and warns Thorin of the gathering forces of men and elves who seek a share of the treasure.

What is Thorin's initial reaction to the news of Smaug's death?

Thorin reacts with joy and relief at the news of Smaug's death, believing the treasure is now his. However, he becomes defensive and distrustful when he learns that others, including the men of Lake-town and the elves, are coming to claim a share of the treasure.

How does Thorin view the Lake-men and the elves?

Thorin is distrustful of both the Lake-men and the elves. He refuses to share the treasure with them, viewing their approach as a threat. He especially distrusts the Elvenking, with whom he has a history of conflict.

What advice does Roäc give to Thorin regarding the treasure?

Roäc advises Thorin not to trust the Master of Lake-town but instead to trust Bard, the dragon-slayer, who is of the line of Girion and a true and honorable man. Roäc also warns that many will come seeking a share of the treasure and suggests that Thorin consider peace, even if it costs him gold.

What preparations do the dwarves make upon hearing about the approaching armies?

The dwarves fortify the entrance to the Lonely Mountain by building a thick wall of stones. They also create a pool and alter the stream to make access difficult. They gather tools and provisions, readying themselves for a potential siege.

Why does Thorin refuse to parley with Bard and the elves?

Thorin refuses to parley with Bard and the elves because he feels that they have no rightful claim to the treasure. He is particularly hostile toward the elves, whom he remembers with 'small kindness,' and he views their demands as unjust and threatening.

What are Bilbo's thoughts on the situation as the tension rises?

Bilbo is increasingly uncomfortable with the situation. He disapproves of Thorin's warlike attitude and wishes for peace. He believes that the treasure is causing unnecessary conflict and regrets that the adventure is not yet over, even though the dragon has been slain.

How does Bard justify his claim to the treasure of the Lonely Mountain?

Bard justifies his claim by stating that much of the treasure belonged to his ancestors, the people of Dale, before Smaug stole it. Additionally, as the slayer of the dragon, Bard argues that he deserves a portion of the treasure for delivering it back to the dwarves and for the aid the Lake-men provided to them.