Thorin's Obsession with the Treasure

Thorin Oakenshield's journey from noble leader to gold-obsessed king, and his eventual redemption through sacrifice.

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The Exiled Prince

Thorin's Background The Heir of Durin Thorin is the heir of the King under the Mountain, driven out by Smaug. He is proud and determined to reclaim his birthright. He leads the company with authority. The Quest Begins Thorin sets out with a clear purpose: to recover the treasure and restore his kingdom. He is initially a wise and respected leader. The Burden of Leadership Thorin bears the weight of his ancestors' legacy. He is responsible for the dwarves' safety and success. His pride is both a strength and a flaw.

The First Signs of Greed

The Gold's Influence The Dragon-sickness When Thorin sees the treasure, he is overcome with desire. He spends hours in the treasury, ignoring other concerns. The dragon's long influence on the gold begins to affect him. The Arkenstone's Pull Thorin becomes obsessed with finding the Arkenstone, the Heart of the Mountain. He values it above all else, even his friends. Change in Attitude Thorin's demeanor hardens. He becomes suspicious and greedy, refusing to share the treasure even with those who helped him.

The Siege and Refusal

The Standoff Refusing Bard's Demands Bard and the Elvenking demand compensation for the destruction of Lake-town. Thorin refuses, declaring that the treasure is his alone. He is willing to be besieged rather than give in. The Arkenstone's Discovery Thorin learns that Bilbo has given the Arkenstone to Bard. He is furious and banishes Bilbo, calling him a traitor. His greed blinds him to Bilbo's good intentions. The Breaking Point Thorin's obsession nearly leads to war between the dwarves and the men and elves. He is consumed by pride and gold-lust.

Redemption in Battle

The Final Charge The Goblin Attack When the goblins attack, Thorin puts aside his greed. He leads a charge from the Mountain, fighting valiantly. He is a warrior again, not a miser. Fighting to the Death Thorin fights with great courage, but he is mortally wounded. He dies protecting his kingdom and his people. Reconciliation Before dying, Thorin makes peace with Bilbo. He admits his mistakes and thanks Bilbo for his friendship. He passes away with dignity, redeemed.

Legacy and Burial

The King's Rest The Arkenstone with Him Thorin is buried with the Arkenstone on his breast. The Elvenking lays Orcrist on his tomb. His legacy as King under the Mountain is honored. A New Era Dain becomes king, and the dwarves prosper. Thorin's sacrifice ensures peace. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed. Bilbo's Memorial Bilbo never forgets Thorin. He speaks of him with respect and sorrow. Thorin's death marks the end of the adventure's heroic phase.

Before the story, at the Unexpected Party

After entering the Mountain, when they find the treasure

During the siege of the Mountain

During the Battle of Five Armies

After the battle, at the burial