The Hobbit Chapter 14 Flashcards

Observations of Esgaroth

• Watchmen of Lake-town, Esgaroth, observe mysterious lights appearing and disappearing from midnight till dawn, signaling unusual activity.

Approach of the Dragon

• The dark figure approaching Esgaroth is Smaug, the formidable dragon threatening the town.

Bard of Lake Town

• Bard is a courageous resident of Lake-town, described as a "grim voiced man," who rallies archers and encourages the Master to resist the dragon with determination.

Bard's Skill

• Bard possesses exceptional archery skills, recognized as a master bowman within the race of Dale.

Smaug's Vulnerability

• Key weakness of Smaug lies in the hollow area of his left breast, which lacks protective scales, providing a target for Bard.

Destruction of Esgaroth

• Esgaroth is devastated when Smaug falls upon it, creating chaos and destruction, followed by the lake boiling and silence marking the end of both the dragon and the town.

Discontent with Leadership

• Citizens of Esgaroth express dissatisfaction with their Master, believing he neglects their welfare during crises.

Desire for New Leadership

• The populace expresses a strong preference for Bard to take leadership roles following the dragon's defeat.

Master's Directive

• Upon Bard's return, the Master allows anyone wishing to accompany Bard back to Dale, recognizing his valor in freeing the land.

Deflection of Blame

• To minimize his accountability, the Master shifts the focus of the townspeople's outrage from himself to Thorin and his company, claiming he is not responsible for the dragon's destruction.

Bard's Perspective on Conflict

• Bard considers it foolish to direct anger towards the adventurers, suggesting that they perished before Smaug's encroachment.

Survivors' Plight

• Survivors of Esgaroth face dire conditions with a lack of shelters and food, leading to illness and death from exposure and sorrow, despite having escaped the town's destruction.

Request for Alliance

• Bard seeks assistance from Thranduil, the Elvenking, in the aftermath of the chaos.

News of Smaug's Death

• News of Smaug's demise spreads to various characters, including Beorn and the goblins, marking a significant turning point in the story.

March towards the Treasure

• Armed men, alongside the Elvenking's forces, prepare to advance towards the treasure-laden mountain, indicating the brewing conflict for the wealth within.

Bilbo's Contribution

• A thrush delivers crucial information to Bard about Smaug's vulnerability, highlighting Bilbo's indirect role in the dragon’s defeat through his earlier observations.