The Mysterious End of Lake-town's Treasure
In the captivating narrative of The Hobbit, the significance of treasures is not only a central theme but also a source of intrigue and mystery. One aspect of the story that has sparked numerous discussions and speculations is the fate of the treasures found in the Lake-town. In this article, we will delve into the recorded events and examine the possible scenarios behind the disappearance of these valuable items.
Companion of Bard: A Hero's Quest and a New Master
The last page of The Hobbit sheds light on the tragic end of the old Master of Lake-town. After Bard's heroic deeds, the new Master received a substantial reward in the form of gold. However, the character's nature was flawed, and he fell victim to the 'dragon-sickness.' This term, a metaphor for avarice, aptly describes his obsession with gold and power.
It is narrated that the Master, played by Stephen Fry in The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, accumulated vast amounts of treasure and fled with it, only to meet his demise in the hazardous and desolate regions known as 'the Waste.' This area, a desolate and unpopulated zone, is situated outside the established settlements of Dale, Lake-town, and Erebor, to the northeast of Mirkwood.
Avarice and the 'Dragon-Sickness'
The 'dragon-sickness' refers to a deep-seated compulsion that often takes hold of those who are driven by avarice or the desire for wealth. In the narrative of The Hobbit, the Master represents an individual who succumbed to this illness, mirroring the traits of Smaug, the dragon whose hoard is coveted by the protagonist, Bilbo Baggins.
The term 'dragon-sickness' is a critical element of the story, highlighting the corrupting influence of wealth and power. It reflects the cyclic nature of greed, where once tainted by such desires, a character may lose their way and ultimately meet a tragic end.
Scenarios of Treasure Disappearance
Given the Master's tragic end, it is reasonable to assume that the companions who abandoned him likely took the treasure. However, there are several possible scenarios that could have led to the loss of these valuable items.
1. The Waste: A Desolate Abandonment - In the desolate regions of 'the Waste,' the companions might have faced dangerous circumstances. They may have encountered wildlife, bandits, or other hostile forces that posed a threat to their security. In a desperate and perilous situation, they might have been forced to abandon the treasure, sending it into obscurity and ensuring its safety.
2. Partisan Division: Shared Fates - Another possibility is that the companions, including Bard and some of the Lake-people, shared the treasure among themselves. This division could have been an attempted act of fairness, but it also increased the risk of individual guardedness. Each party might have kept a part of the treasure, leading to further disputes or, in the case of some companions, the loss of their insecure share during times of conflict or misfortune.
3. Avarice Amongst Allies: Corruption within - The 'dragon-sickness' is not confined to the Master alone. The companions themselves might have been afflicted by the same disease, causing them to squabble among themselves over the treasure. In this scenario, the treasure could have been lost or stolen as a result of internal power struggles, leading to its ultimate disappearance and the various tragic fates that befell the individual companions.
Conclusion: A Critical Evaluation of a Literary Mystery
The mysterious end of the treasures of Lake-town is a testament to the complex and multifaceted nature of The Hobbit. The narrative not only provides a satisfying conclusion to Bilbo's journey but also presents a profound lesson on the folly of avarice and the potential consequences of our desires. While we may never know the exact fate of the treasure, the possibilities outlined above offer a rich avenue for further exploration and analysis, deepening the reader's appreciation of this beloved classic.