What Happened To The Arkenstone After Thorin Was Buried
The Arkenstone: A Tale of Power, Obsession and Redemption in Middle-earth
In the epic conclusion of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit, we bear witness to a battle that would reshape the course of Middle-earth: the Battle of Five Armies. As Smaug, the fearsome dragon, is defeated and Thorin Oakenshield lies mortally wounded, a decision is made by one of the bowmen that forever alters the fate of the Arkenstone—the heart of the Lonely Mountain.
The Aftermath: A Glimpse into the Future
In the aftermath of the Battle of Five Armies, the bowman who struck the final blow to Smaug, in a moment of selflessness and wisdom, took the Arkenstone from Thorin’s lifeless grasp. Instead of claiming it as his share of the treasure, he chose to set it aside, acknowledging its power and the dangers that come with it.
Thorin’s Company: A Journey Beyond The Hobbit
As we explore the lives of Thorin’s Company beyond the events of The Hobbit, we find that not all had a peaceful end. Thorin himself was mortally wounded in battle and, as he lay dying, he bestowed his final blessings upon Bilbo Baggins.
The Arkenstone’s Journey: A Connected Legendarium
- We delve into the connections between the Hobbit and earlier mythology, discovering that the Arkenstone’s journey is inextricably linked to the Silmarils of the First Age.
- We explore how Tolkien’s themes of obsession, corruption, and redemption play out through this seemingly simple burial, shedding light on the deeper significance of certain objects of power in Middle-earth.
An Enduring Legacy: The Arkenstone and the Dominion of Men
Finally, we consider the eventual fate of the Dwarves during the Dominion of Men, drawing parallels between the Arkenstone’s story and the broader themes that permeate Tolkien’s legendarium.
Conclusion: The Arkenstone’s Fate in the Ages to Come
As we ponder the fate of the Arkenstone in the ages that followed, it becomes clear that this seemingly simple burial was anything but. The tale of the Arkenstone is one of power, obsession, and redemption—a testament to Tolkien’s mastery of storytelling and his unparalleled ability to weave intricate threads throughout Middle-earth.
