Analyzing The Hobbit: The Battle Of The Five Armies: Themes And Symbolism

Chloe Fitzgerald

5 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

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Greed and the Corruption of Power

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies powerfully illustrates the destructive nature of greed and its corrupting influence on power. Thorin Oakenshield's transformation from a noble leader to a dragon-like figure obsessed with gold serves as a central example.

Thorin's Obsession with the Arkenstone

Thorin's obsession with the Arkenstone, a magnificent gem symbolic of immense wealth and power, marks a turning point in his character. He becomes consumed by its allure, abandoning his former wisdom and compassion. His famous line, “I will not share my treasure!” speaks volumes about his descent into avarice.

• The symbolism of the Arkenstone: The Arkenstone represents not just material wealth but also the corrupting influence of power itself. Its beauty masks its destructive potential, mirroring the seductive nature of unchecked ambition.
• Thorin's descent into madness and its consequences: Thorin's greed isolates him from his companions and leads him to make reckless decisions, endangering the lives of his friends and the entire kingdom.
• Comparison to Smaug's greed: The film draws a clear parallel between Thorin's greed and Smaug's, highlighting how the desire for gold can lead to self-destruction and widespread suffering.
• The impact of unchecked ambition on individuals and society: Thorin's downfall demonstrates the devastating consequences of unchecked ambition, not only for the individual but for the entire community.

The Importance of Loyalty and Friendship

Amidst the chaos and destruction of the Battle of the Five Armies, the enduring bonds of loyalty and friendship shine through as powerful forces for good. The fellowship formed between Bilbo, Gandalf, and the dwarves demonstrates the strength that can be found in shared purpose and mutual support.

The Fellowship's Enduring Bonds

Despite facing numerous challenges, the fellowship perseveres, making considerable sacrifices for one another. Their loyalty provides a stark contrast to the destructive forces of greed and ambition at play.

• Bilbo's role in mediating conflicts: Bilbo, often caught in the crossfire of the dwarves' internal conflicts, acts as a mediator, using his compassion and wisdom to help resolve disputes.
• The dwarves' loyalty to Thorin, even in his madness: Even as Thorin descends into madness, the dwarves remain largely loyal, demonstrating a deep sense of commitment and camaraderie.
• Gandalf's guidance and support: Gandalf provides crucial guidance and support to the fellowship, embodying wisdom and unwavering faith in the face of adversity.
• The contrast between the fellowship and the forces of destruction: The strength of the fellowship's bonds provides a powerful counterpoint to the destructive forces of greed and war that plague the land.

Good vs. Evil and the Nature of War

The Battle of the Five Armies is not a simplistic clash between good and evil. The film presents a morally ambiguous landscape, highlighting the complexities of conflict and the unintended consequences of war.

The Moral Ambiguity of the Battle

Each army in the battle has its own motivations and justifications, blurring the lines between "good" and "evil." The suffering of innocent bystanders further complicates the moral equation.

• The motivations of each army: The motivations of the five armies are multifaceted and often driven by self-interest, survival, or revenge.
• The unintended consequences of war: The battle results in widespread destruction and loss of life, underscoring the devastating consequences of conflict.
• The suffering of innocent bystanders: The film portrays the suffering of innocent bystanders, highlighting the human cost of war.
• The importance of making difficult choices in times of conflict: Characters are forced to make difficult moral choices, emphasizing the complexities of navigating conflict and war.

The Power of Hope and Redemption

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies explores the themes of hope and redemption through the personal journeys of Bilbo and Thorin. Both characters undergo significant transformations, ultimately finding forgiveness and peace.

Bilbo's and Thorin's Arcs

Bilbo's journey is one of self-discovery and growth. He emerges from his adventures with a newfound confidence and a deeper understanding of himself and the world around him. Thorin, despite his flaws, ultimately finds redemption through a final act of selflessness.

• Bilbo's growth and self-discovery: Bilbo's experience in Middle-earth transforms him from a timid hobbit into a more courageous and compassionate individual.
• Thorin's final moments of selflessness: In his final moments, Thorin displays a surprising act of selflessness, sacrificing himself to protect his companions.
• The significance of forgiveness: The film emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, both for oneself and others, as a crucial element of healing and moving forward.
• The theme of finding peace in the face of loss: The film suggests that even in the face of loss and tragedy, it is possible to find peace and acceptance.

Conclusion

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies is more than just a thrilling battle sequence; it's a complex exploration of greed, loyalty, the moral ambiguity of war, and the enduring power of hope and redemption. The film's nuanced portrayal of these themes, embodied in the compelling character arcs of Bilbo and Thorin, offers much to ponder. We encourage you to delve deeper into the film's symbolism and share your own interpretations of the themes discussed. What are your thoughts on the themes presented in The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies? Share your analysis and interpretations in the comments below! Let's discuss the lasting impact of The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies' themes and symbolism.