The Lake-town Men and the Master

The people of Lake-town, initially welcoming, later blame the dwarves for the dragon's attack, but ultimately find a new leader in Bard.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Welcome in Lake-town

The Enthusiastic Reception The Prophecies The townspeople remember the old songs and welcome Thorin as the returning king. They provide the dwarves with supplies. The Master's Ambivalence The Master of Lake-town is cautious but goes along with the public mood. He is more interested in trade than in adventures. The Departure The dwarves leave with boats and provisions. The people are hopeful.

The Dragon's Attack

The Destruction The Fire Smaug burns Lake-town. The people suffer greatly. Many are killed or left homeless. The Blame After the attack, the people blame the dwarves for bringing the dragon. The Master fans these flames. The Heroism Bard organizes the defense and kills the dragon. He becomes a hero.

The New Leadership

Bard's Rise The People's Choice Bard is acclaimed as a leader. The Master is deposed. Bard uses the treasure to rebuild Dale and help Lake-town. The New Master A new Master is elected, wiser and more popular. The town prospers. The End of the Story The Lake-men find peace and prosperity. The old songs come true, but not without cost.

After the barrel escape

Night of Smaug's attack

After the battle