The Hobbit: The Battle Of The Five Armies: Characters, Plot, And Legacy

Aria Freeman

5 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

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Epic battles, breathtaking landscapes, and a cast of unforgettable characters – The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies remains a cinematic landmark in the world of fantasy films. This final installment of Peter Jackson's Hobbit trilogy, while not without its controversies, cemented its place within the larger Tolkien universe and continues to captivate audiences worldwide. This article will delve into the key characters, unravel the intricate plot, and explore the enduring legacy of The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies.

<h2>Key Characters in The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies</h2>

<h3>Thorin Oakenshield: A King's Struggle</h3>

Thorin Oakenshield, King Under the Mountain, is arguably the most complex character in The Battle of the Five Armies. His journey is one of greed, redemption, and ultimately, sacrifice. Consumed by dragon sickness, his obsession with reclaiming Erebor's treasure initially blinds him to the needs of his kin and his allies.

• Key Relationships: His complex relationship with Bilbo Baggins, initially transactional, evolves into a deep bond of respect and friendship. His relationship with his nephews, Balin and Dwalin, highlights his leadership, albeit flawed, and his loyalty to his family.
• Internal Conflicts: Thorin grapples with his lust for gold, his responsibility as king, and the moral implications of his actions. His transformation from a driven, almost ruthless leader to a king willing to sacrifice everything for his people is a pivotal moment in the film.

<h3>Bilbo Baggins: From Hobbit to Hero</h3>

Bilbo Baggins' journey throughout the Hobbit trilogy is one of remarkable personal growth. From a timid hobbit of the Shire, he emerges as a resourceful and brave individual, forever changed by his adventures.

• Key Actions: Bilbo's bravery in facing Smaug, his cleverness in navigating perilous situations, and his unwavering loyalty to his companions are key to the success of their quest. His discovery and use of the One Ring also foreshadows the events of The Lord of the Rings.
• Friendship with Thorin: Bilbo's friendship with Thorin is a central theme. He witnesses Thorin's transformation and becomes a key figure in his redemption.

<h3>Other Notable Characters: A Tapestry of Middle-earth</h3>

Beyond the central duo, numerous characters contribute to the richness of The Battle of the Five Armies.

• Gandalf: The wise wizard continues to guide and protect the company, playing a crucial role in the battle's strategy.
• Legolas: The skilled elven archer showcases his prowess in combat, adding a crucial element to the battle.
• Tauriel: A unique addition to the story, the elven warrior provides a romantic subplot and adds depth to the elven perspective.
• Bard: The human archer, initially driven by revenge, ultimately plays a crucial part in the battle's resolution and the establishment of a new order.
• Smaug: Even in death, Smaug's impact reverberates throughout the film, triggering the conflict that leads to the epic battle.

<h2>Unraveling the Plot of The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies</h2>

<h3>The Aftermath of Erebor: Chaos Descends</h3>

Smaug's death unleashes chaos upon the land. The news of the dragon's demise attracts several factions, each with their own claims to Erebor's vast treasure.

• Arrival of Armies: Wargs, goblins, elves, dwarves, and men converge upon the Lonely Mountain, leading to a complex web of alliances and rivalries.
• Political Tensions: The conflicting claims to Erebor’s treasure – the dwarves' ancestral right, the elves' contributions to the fight against Smaug, and the men's need for recompense – fuel the escalating conflict.

<h3>The Battle Itself: A Spectacle of War</h3>

The Battle of Five Armies is a visually stunning display of epic proportions. The use of CGI and practical effects creates a breathtaking spectacle.

• Significant Battles: The confrontation on the mountainside, the desperate defense of the dwarves, and the final stand of Thorin and his company are all pivotal moments.
• Visual Spectacle: The sheer scale of the battle, the detailed depiction of the various armies, and the dynamic choreography make it a cinematic masterpiece.

<h3>Resolution and Consequences: A New Dawn</h3>

The battle concludes with a costly victory for the combined forces of dwarves, elves, and men. The surviving characters must grapple with the consequences of their actions.

• Fate of Key Characters: While many survive, several key characters are lost, including Thorin Oakenshield, leaving a profound impact on the surviving characters.
• Lasting Implications: The battle reshapes the political landscape of Middle-earth, establishing new alliances and altering the power dynamics between the different races.

<h2>The Enduring Legacy of The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies</h2>

<h3>Critical Reception and Box Office Success: A Commercial Triumph</h3>

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies was a box office success, grossing hundreds of millions of dollars worldwide. However, critical reception was mixed, with praise for the visual effects and action sequences, but criticism for pacing and faithfulness to the source material. Its place within the broader landscape of fantasy films remains a subject of debate.

<h3>Impact on Tolkien Fandom: A Double-Edged Sword</h3>

The film significantly impacted the perception and appreciation of Tolkien's work. The film's alterations to the source material sparked discussions among Tolkien enthusiasts. While the film garnered both praise and criticism, its commercial success and visual impact undoubtedly contributed to the sustained popularity of Tolkien's works.

<h3>Cultural Influence: Shaping the Fantasy Landscape</h3>

The film’s visual style, character designs, and depiction of epic battles have influenced subsequent fantasy films and literature. The detailed portrayal of dwarves, elves, and other fantasy races has left its mark on the broader cultural understanding of these characters.

<h2>Conclusion</h2>

The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies stands as a significant cinematic event, expanding upon the narrative established in the previous installments. The film’s memorable characters, its spectacular battle sequences, and its lasting impact on the fantasy genre all contribute to its enduring legacy. The film, while not without its detractors, remains a key component in the overall tapestry of Tolkien adaptations and a must-watch for fans of fantasy cinema. Revisit the epic battle, delve into the books, or share your thoughts on The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies in the comments below! You might also enjoy exploring related articles on Tolkien's works and the broader world of Middle-earth.