Thorin is guided even more strongly by ancestral expectations, but his goals are very tangible. Bilbo goes along for the ride, partly to live up to Gandalf’s recommendation of him as a burglar, but mostly because he is seeking something intangible a connection to his ancestors via a discovery of his more adventurous self. The quest is organized by Gandalf (who has his own hidden motives), while the journey is driven forward by Thorin’s desire to reclaim his kingdom. To answer this question, it is first important to note that although Bilbo may be the main character, it is actually the lesser protagonists who move the plot along. But exactly how did the exiled king shift from protagonist to antagonist? What appears to be a flaw in his character culminates in a deadly rage against Bilbo. Given the wizard’s status, readers know the dwarf must be doing something wrong if he has earned this stamp of disapproval. At one point, even Gandalf stands against him. Because of pride, and an unwillingness to bend to the will of outsiders, he commits his followers to a desperate battle. After the Lonely Mountain is reclaimed, his character becomes even less appealing. By the time the dragon has been destroyed, it is already clear he is an inconsistent hero, occasionally brave and heedless of danger, but just as often shirking the riskiest activities, and letting a small hobbit face them. From the beginning, the character possesses a strong sense of self-importance, and a gruff impatience which is not entirely endearing. While he is never entirely a villain, Thorin Oakenshield becomes temporarily cast as one due to circumstance.

Ī Journey from Hero to Villain, and Back Again This essay is an attempt to justify my reaction.

But when I read the story, I find it hard not to side with him. Thorin is often criticized for the choices he makes after the death of Smaug, and the average reader is rarely sympathetic with his refusal to share the treasure with the people of Lake-town.

Smaug i am king under the mountain