The Hobbit Chapter 12 Flashcards

Questions and Answers

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?

Balin

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?

Bilbo felt indescribably astonished. Signup and view all the answers

What is the first item Bilbo takes?

Bilbo takes a great two-handled cup. Signup and view all the answers

What quality do dragons have ('and Smaug is no exception')?

Dragons are known to hoard their wealth and are very aware of it after long possession. Signup and view all the answers

As Smaug seeks out the thieves, about whom does Bifur express grave concerns?

Bifur expresses concerns about his cousins, Bombur and Bofur. Signup and view all the answers

According to Thorin, who will remain in the mountain?

Fili and Kili Signup and view all the answers

What has always been the weak part of the adventurers' plan?

They could think of no way of getting rid of Smaug. Signup and view all the answers

How do the frustrated dwarves release their anger?

They begin to grumble at Bilbo, blaming him for bringing away a cup and stirring up Smaug's wrath. Signup and view all the answers

How does Bilbo counter the criticism he receives?

Bilbo states that he was not engaged to kill dragons, but to steal treasure. Signup and view all the answers

What tentative plan does Bilbo offer?

Bilbo suggests they can stay where they are and creep out safely during the day. Signup and view all the answers

Which of Smaug's senses is specially sensitive?

Smaug has a particularly sensitive sense of smell. Signup and view all the answers

How can Smaug sleep, if suspicious?

Smaug can keep half an eye open while he sleeps. Signup and view all the answers

Whom does Smaug suspect is behind Bilbo's sudden appearance?

Smaug suspects the Lake Men. Signup and view all the answers

How had the thrushes been used by the men of Dale?

The men of Dale used thrushes as messengers. Signup and view all the answers

What is the adventurers' only hope?

To get well in the tunnel and shut the door. Signup and view all the answers

What is the Arkenstone of Thrain?

It was the Heart of the Mountain; a great white gem. Signup and view all the answers

Quote: 'You ought to have brought 500 burglars, not one.'

Bilbo points out the harsh criticism of him while emphasizing that the others have not kept him in the loop. Signup and view all the answers

Quote: 'I don't know your spell, but if you are not one of those men of the lake, you had their help.'

Smaug assumes that the men of Lake-Town have conspired with Bilbo. Signup and view all the answers

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.

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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.