Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is Bilbo reluctant to do for Thorin?
What is Bilbo reluctant to do for Thorin?
Bilbo is reluctant to perform the service for which he was included in the Company because he feels he has already earned his reward by saving the dwarves twice.
Who is the only dwarf to enter the secret passage with Bilbo?
Who is the only dwarf to enter the secret passage with Bilbo?
Balin
Describe Smaug's physical appearance.
Describe Smaug's physical appearance.
Smaug is a vast red-golden dragon, fast asleep with a thrumming sound coming from his jaws and nostrils, wings folded like an immeasurable bat, and a long, pale belly crusted with gems and fragments of gold.
How did Bilbo feel at the sight of the treasure?
How did Bilbo feel at the sight of the treasure?
What is the first item Bilbo takes?
What is the first item Bilbo takes?
What quality do dragons have ('and Smaug is no exception')?
What quality do dragons have ('and Smaug is no exception')?
As Smaug seeks out the thieves, about whom does Bifur express grave concerns?
As Smaug seeks out the thieves, about whom does Bifur express grave concerns?
According to Thorin, who will remain in the mountain?
According to Thorin, who will remain in the mountain?
What has always been the weak part of the adventurers' plan?
What has always been the weak part of the adventurers' plan?
How do the frustrated dwarves release their anger?
How do the frustrated dwarves release their anger?
How does Bilbo counter the criticism he receives?
How does Bilbo counter the criticism he receives?
What tentative plan does Bilbo offer?
What tentative plan does Bilbo offer?
Which of Smaug's senses is specially sensitive?
Which of Smaug's senses is specially sensitive?
How can Smaug sleep, if suspicious?
How can Smaug sleep, if suspicious?
Whom does Smaug suspect is behind Bilbo's sudden appearance?
Whom does Smaug suspect is behind Bilbo's sudden appearance?
How had the thrushes been used by the men of Dale?
How had the thrushes been used by the men of Dale?
What is the adventurers' only hope?
What is the adventurers' only hope?
What is the Arkenstone of Thrain?
What is the Arkenstone of Thrain?
Quote: 'You ought to have brought 500 burglars, not one.'
Quote: 'You ought to have brought 500 burglars, not one.'
Quote: 'I don't know your spell, but if you are not one of those men of the lake, you had their help.'
Quote: 'I don't know your spell, but if you are not one of those men of the lake, you had their help.'
Study Notes
Bilbo's Reluctance
- Bilbo is hesitant to fulfill a task for Thorin despite being reminded of his role in the company; he feels he has already earned his reward by aiding the dwarves multiple times.
Dwarf Companionship
- Balin is the only dwarf who accompanies Bilbo into the secret passage, showing a bond between them.
Smaug's Description
- Smaug is illustrated as a "vast red-golden dragon" with low fires, characterized by his immense wings and a belly adorned with treasures accumulated over time.
Bilbo's Reaction to Treasure
- Upon witnessing the treasure, Bilbo is profoundly shocked and unable to find words to articulate his astonishment.
First Item Taken
- The first treasure Bilbo seizes is a heavy two-handled cup, emphasizing his role as a burglar.
Dragon Wealth
- Dragons, including Smaug, possess an acute awareness of their wealth, having hoarded it over time without practical use.
Bifur’s Concerns
- Bifur expresses distress over the safety of his cousins, Bombur and Bofur, who are left behind in the valley during their encounter with Smaug.
Remaining Dwarves
- Thorin decides that Fili and Kili will stay behind in the mountain, indicating a strategic choice to protect the group.
Flaws in the Plan
- The adventurers recognize a fundamental weakness in their strategy; they have no clear solution for dealing with Smaug.
Dwarves' Frustration
- The dwarves express their frustration by blaming Bilbo for provoking Smaug, marking a shift in their earlier excitement about the treasure.
Bilbo's Defense
- Bilbo defends himself by clarifying that his role is not to kill dragons but to steal treasure, emphasizing the distinction of their tasks.
Bilbo's Tentative Plan
- Bilbo suggests remaining in safety until they can cautiously explore outside during the day, capitalizing on Smaug's potential napping.
Sensitivity of Smaug's Senses
- Smaug has an especially keen sense of smell, highlighting the need for stealth when dealing with him.
Smaug's Suspicion
- The dragon suspects the lake men may be behind Bilbo’s sudden intrusion, reflecting his cunning nature.
Use of Thrushes
- Thrushes have historically been used by the men of Dale as messengers, and the adventurers plan to utilize them for communication with Lake-Town.
Adventurers' Hope
- The group's strategy hinges on retreating into the tunnel and sealing it as a means of safety from Smaug's wrath.
Arkenstone's Significance
- The Arkenstone is a pivotal symbol, described as the Heart of the Mountain and a significant treasure in its own right.
Bilbo's Critique
- Bilbo critiques his peers by suggesting they should have brought more support, highlighting their uncoordinated plans and unfair criticism of him.
Smaug's Riddles
- In a conversation with Smaug, Bilbo’s vague responses lead the dragon to suspect collaboration with the lake men, revealing the tension between them.
Studying That Suits You
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Description
This set of flashcards focuses on Chapter 12 of 'The Hobbit'. It covers key questions and responses regarding Bilbo's role and his interactions with Thorin. Ideal for studying character motivations and plot details.
