The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies Ending Explained
The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies is the final installment in Peter Jackson’s epic fantasy trilogy based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved novel, The Hobbit. As with any complex story, the ending of this film left many viewers with questions and a desire for further clarification. In this article, we will delve into the ending of The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies and attempt to shed some light on its meaning.
*Spoiler Alert*
The film concludes with the climactic battle between the various armies, including elves, dwarves, men, orcs, and eagles. Bilbo Baggins, the hobbit protagonist, plays a minor role in this battle as he is primarily focused on finding his way back home to The Shire. However, his actions throughout the film have significant consequences for the outcome of the battle.
One of the central themes explored in The Hobbit is greed and its destructive power. This theme is particularly evident in Thorin Oakenshield, leader of the dwarves. Throughout the trilogy, Thorin becomes increasingly consumed by his desire for gold and power. In the final battle, he is faced with a choice between reclaiming his homeland or helping his allies fight against overwhelming odds.
Ultimately, Thorin chooses to prioritize his own desires over the greater good, leading to tragic consequences. He becomes obsessed with protecting his treasure from both friend and foe alike. It is only when he realizes that his actions have endangered those closest to him that he has a change of heart.
Bilbo Baggins serves as a foil to Thorin’s greed throughout the story. He consistently demonstrates selflessness and compassion towards others. Bilbo’s decision to spare Gollum’s life in an earlier encounter plays a crucial role in saving him from certain death later on.
In the final moments of the film, Thorin is mortally wounded, and Bilbo rushes to his side. Thorin acknowledges his mistakes and asks for Bilbo’s forgiveness. This moment of redemption highlights the tragic consequences of greed and the importance of humility and selflessness.
The ending also offers closure for other characters in the story. Bard the Bowman, who plays a significant role in the battle, becomes the new leader of Lake-town and helps rebuild their lives after the devastation caused by Smaug. The elves, led by Thranduil, also find resolution as they reconcile with their past grievances and forge new alliances.
Additionally, Bilbo’s return to The Shire brings a sense of normalcy and peace to his life. He is welcomed back by his fellow hobbits, who have no knowledge of the epic adventure he has just experienced. This contrast between Bilbo’s ordinary life and the extraordinary events he has witnessed serves as a reminder that heroes can come from unexpected places.
In conclusion, The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies provides a satisfying conclusion to Peter Jackson’s trilogy. The ending explores themes of greed, redemption, and heroism while offering closure for its characters. It serves as a reminder that even in a world filled with magic and fantastical creatures, it is our choices and actions that define us.
