Thorin, Son of Thrain
Thorin preparing to shoot his bow.
The relationship between Thorin and Bilbo is what defines the story the most. At the beginning of the story, the reader has the impression that Thorin is a brave and excellent reader. As the story develops, the reader realizes that Thorin is a mighty warrior but that he is stubborn, arrogant, greedy, and focused on power. The reader discovers that Thorin is not a true leader because he makes careless and poor decisions. Even though Thorin treats Bilbo as being beneath him, Thorin must rely on Bilbo’s actions more and more as the story progresses. Thorin’s lack of leadership sets off Bilbo’s best qualities and allows Bilbo a chance to shine and be the true hero. Even when Thorin becomes ridiculously greedy and obsessed with the treasure at the end of the story, Bilbo tries to make peace. It is only when Thorin is dying because of his wounds from the Goblin War that he apologizes and sees Bilbo’s true character.