The Danger of Greed and Dragon-sickness

The corrupting influence of treasure, especially dragon-guarded gold, is a central theme illustrated by Thorin's fall and the Master's greed.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Dragon's Hoard

The Treasure's Allure The Description The treasure is vast and beautiful, but it is also cursed. Smaug's long possession has imbued it with a kind of evil. The Effect on the Dwarves When the dwarves see the treasure, they are immediately affected. They become possessive and forget their other goals. Bilbo's Immunity Bilbo is less affected. He takes only what he needs and is more concerned with escape and peace. The ring may protect him, or his hobbit sense.

Thorin's Fall

The Corruption Thorin's Change Thorin becomes obsessed with the Arkenstone. He is willing to fight his allies to keep the treasure. His greed overrides his reason. The Mistake Thorin's refusal to share leads to the siege and nearly to war. He is consumed by the dragon-sickness. The Redemption Thorin breaks free from the greed in his final battle, sacrificing himself for his people. He dies a hero, but the lesson is clear.

The Master's Fate

The Secondary Example The Master's Greed The Master of Lake-town takes the gold given to him and flees, but he dies in the wild, abandoned. His greed leads to his downfall. The Contrast Bard, who is not greedy, becomes a respected leader. The Master's fate underscores the theme. The Message Greed brings ruin. Generosity and wisdom bring prosperity. The treasure is a test of character.

Inside the Mountain, at the lair

During the siege

After the battle, in Lake-town