Introduction

Welcome, fellow enthusiasts of J.R.R Tolkien’s Middle-earth! Today, we delve into the enigma that surrounds one of the most intriguing artifacts in The Hobbit – the Arkenstone of Thrain. This glowing white gem caused quite a stir during the Battle of Five Armies and left many pondering its ultimate fate.

The Immediate Fate of the Arkenstone

In the tumultuous aftermath of the Battle of Five Armies, something remarkable took place that often goes unnoticed in the excitement of victory and mourning. The bowman who had just slain Smaug and could have claimed the Arkenstone as part of his share of the treasure made a different choice entirely.

He took that glowing white gem, the one that had nearly caused so much trouble, and buried it in the heart of the Lonely Mountain.

The Arkenstone’s Connection to Thorin’s Company

Following the events of The Hobbit, some members of Thorin’s Company lived for many years, even beyond the War of the Ring. Among them was Bilbo Baggins, who shared in the perils of the adventure and bore witness to Thorin’s demise.

Thorin, mortally wounded during the battle, made a heartfelt farewell to Bilbo before he succumbed to his injuries. The King under the Mountain bequeathed no gold or silver to his friend but wished for friendship in return.

The Arkenstone’s Role in Tolkien’s Legendarium

The story of the Arkenstone is deeply intertwined with other aspects of Tolkien’s mythology, from the Silmarils of the First Age to the eventual fate of the Dwarves during the Dominion of Men. It touches on themes of obsession, corruption, and the removal of certain objects of power from the world entirely.

Some of these connections come directly from the text, while others can be traced through Tolkien’s letters and the work of scholars dedicated to understanding the intricacies of Middle-earth lore.

Conclusion

The fate of the Arkenstone may have been left unspoken by Tolkien, but its significance in Middle-earth’s history is undeniable. By exploring this enigma, we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of J.R.R. Tolkien’s fantasy world and the themes that drive it.

Join us on our next journey as we continue to unravel the mysteries hidden within Middle-earth.