The Hobbit: Chapter 14 - Fire and Water

Summary

In 'The Hobbit,' Chapter 14 'Fire and Water,' the people of Laketown witness mysterious lights on the Lonely Mountain, speculating about the dragon Smaug. When the dragon attacks, Bard the Bowman, descendant of Girion, slays Smaug with a black arrow, leading to the dragon's death and the destruction of Laketown. The survivors, now homeless, debate their future, with some advocating for Bard as a king. Help arrives from the Elves, and plans are made to rebuild, while a group prepares to claim the dragon's hoard.

Takeaways

• 🔥 The script describes the events following Smaug's attack on Laketown, where he is defeated by Bard the Bowman.
• 🌌 The people of Laketown initially believe the lights on the Lonely Mountain are a sign of the dwarves' wealth, but they soon realize it's Smaug's fire.
• 🏰 The town's inhabitants prepare for Smaug's attack by arming themselves and destroying the bridges to isolate their town on an island.
• 🐉 Smaug's fury is immense, and he burns down much of Laketown, causing the residents to flee to boats and the mainland.
• 🏹 Bard, a descendant of Girion, manages to slay Smaug with a black arrow shot into the dragon's weak spot, saving the town from complete destruction.
• 🌙 Bard's victory is aided by a thrush who advises him on Smaug's vulnerability, showcasing the role of nature and its creatures in the story.
• 👑 After Smaug's death, the people of Laketown consider making Bard their king, but he is content with his role as a hero and leader.
• 🏞️ The script also touches on the themes of rebuilding and hope, as the survivors plan to construct a new Laketown with the help of the elves.
• 💰 The dragon's death leads to discussions about the unguarded treasure of the mountain, hinting at future conflicts over its ownership.
• 🗡️ The elves, under their king, respond to Bard's call for help, showcasing their swift action and the alliance between men and elves in times of crisis.
• ❄️ The aftermath of Smaug's attack leaves the people of Laketown in dire need, facing sickness, hunger, and the harsh winter, emphasizing the human cost of the dragon's wrath.

Q & A

What event triggers the excitement in Laketown when Smaug is not yet seen?

The excitement in Laketown is triggered by a great light appearing in the low place in the hills, turning the northern end of the lake golden, which the townsfolk interpret as the dragon Smaug turning the river into gold.

Why does the grim-voiced man in Laketown warn of the dragon's approach?

The grim-voiced man warns of the dragon's approach because he believes that the lights seen on the mountain are not a sign of the dwarves' wealth but rather the marauding fire of the dragon, which he has always been foreboding.

How does Bard, the bowman, prove his worth and lineage during the dragon attack?

Bard proves his worth and lineage by leading the defense against Smaug, encouraging the archers, and ultimately slaying the dragon with a well-aimed arrow to its weak spot, the hollow of the left breast, as advised by an old thrush.

What is the significance of the thrush that perches on Bard's shoulder during the battle?

The thrush on Bard's shoulder signifies the connection to the natural world and the race of Dale. It provides Bard with crucial advice on how to kill Smaug by targeting the hollow of its left breast, and it symbolizes hope and guidance in the face of despair.

Why do the people of Laketown initially refuse to make Bard their king after Smaug's death?

The people of Laketown initially refuse to make Bard their king because their tradition dictates that the master of the town is elected from among the old and wise, not merely fighting men. They also have concerns about the loss of their town and the need to rebuild, which they believe requires experienced leadership.

What is the role of the Master of Laketown in the aftermath of Smaug's attack?

The Master of Laketown plays a role in organizing the survivors, planning the new town, and directing the rebuilding efforts. He also expresses skepticism about Bard's claim to kingship and focuses on the practical matters of recovery and future prosperity.

How does the death of Smaug impact the people of Laketown and their perception of the dwarves?

The death of Smaug initially brings relief to the people of Laketown, but it also leads to a shift in their perception of the dwarves. They begin to blame Thorin and his company for stirring up the dragon, causing their town's destruction, and they consider seeking recompense from the dwarves' treasure.

What assistance does Bard request from the King of the Elves, and how does it affect the survivors of Laketown?

Bard requests aid from the King of the Elves to help the survivors of Laketown with food, shelter, and protection. The elves respond by sending supplies and skilled workers to help rebuild the town and provide for the people during the harsh winter.

Why does the new town of Laketown decide to move northward up the shore?

The new town of Laketown decides to move northward up the shore to avoid the cursed spot where Smaug lies dead. The people have a dread of the water where the dragon fell and prefer to distance themselves from the site of their destruction.

What is the final decision regarding the leadership of the people of Laketown and the future of Dale?

The people of Laketown decide to rebuild their town with the help of the elves and under the guidance of their Master. Bard, who is of the line of Girion and has now slain the dragon, is recognized as a hero and is suggested to return to Dale to reclaim his heritage, with the option for others to join him.