The Quest of Erebor was a quest that occurred in TA 2941 to and had a strong impact on the War of the Ring at the end of the Third Age. It was begun by Thorin and Gandalf's decision to retake the Lonely Mountain, and was recounted from the perspective of Bilbo Baggins. The conflict was also known as the Hunt for Thorin Oakenshield and took place in the greater period of the Necromancer conflict.
Prelude[]
Gandalf knew that Smaug would pose a serious threat if used by Sauron in war, then dwelling in Dol Guldur in Mirkwood. He was thinking about the matter when he met Thorin Oakenshield at Bree. Thorin also was concerned about Smaug, but had the different motive of vengeance and the reclaiming of the Dwarves' treasure in the Lonely Mountain. Gandalf agreed to help Thorin.[1]
Gandalf thought Bilbo, an unlikely choice, to be a suitable companion of Thorin and his Dwarves for a number of reasons. First, he had observed that Bilbo took an interest in the world at large, and was thus adventurous. Another reason is that Smaug would not recognize the scent of a hobbit, advantageous to a stealthy operation. Thorin also did not think highly of hobbits, and putting Bilbo in the expedition might prevent the proud Thorin from rash actions, such as openly challenging Smaug.[2]
It was Thorin's objections to Bilbo that Gandalf found most difficult to overcome. Thorin believed that Bilbo was incapable of helping their adventure and that Gandalf might be simply meddling in his affairs for his own reasons. After much debate, Gandalf convinced Thorin that Bilbo would be a worthy member.[2]
The Quest[]
The Company started from the Shire to the Trollshaws. Three Stone-trolls, Tom, William and Bert caught them. Luckily, they were saved when Gandalf tricked the trolls into arguing all-night until sunrise, thus turning them to stone.[2]
Then they passed the Hidden Valley and arrived in Rivendell; eventually leaving to venture over the High Pass. After being captured by goblins, Gandalf saved saved them again in Goblin-town, they were hunted by Wargs. They were saved by Gwaihir and the other Great Eagles. After having a night in Beorn's house, they went to Mirkwood. Thranduil caught them and locked them in the cells. Bilbo, who was wearing the Ring, saved the Company by Barrels. And they found Bard who brought them to Lake-town. They encountered the Master of Lake-town and afterwards successfully reached the Lonely Mountain.[1]
Aftermath[]
The Quest achieved its purpose, as Durin's Folk could consequently repopulate Erebor, and reclaim their gold. The company's arrival at the mountain, however, set in motion the events that led to the Battle of Five Armies.[3]
Additionally, by virtue of Bilbo's finding of the Ring, the quest indirectly caused the War of the Ring nearly eighty years later.[4]
Appearances[]
The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey- The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug
- The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies (mentioned)
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (mentioned)- The Lord of the Rings: War in the North (mentioned)
- The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (indirect mention)
