Erebor in the Lord of the Rings: From Prosperity to Desolation and Back Again

In J.R.R. Tolkien's expansive legendarium, Erebor, or the Lonely Mountain, plays a significant role in the tale of Middle-earth, transitioning from a place of great wealth and power to desolation under Smaug and back to a symbol of hope in the fight against the dark forces. This article explores the fascinating history and cultural significance of Erebor in the context of The Lord of the Rings.

The History of Erebor

The Lonely Mountain has a rich and tumultuous history, beginning with the Second Age. The Longbeards, a branch of the Dwarven race, controlled Erebor since at least the early years of the Second Age. Thráin I, the great leader of the Longbeards, led a group of Dwarves to the Lonely Mountain in T.A. 1999 after the awakening of Durin's Bane. This led to the establishment of the Kingdom under the Mountain.

Prosperity and Growth

Under Thráin I and his son Thorin I, the Dwarves dug caves and halls to form an underground city, mining vast riches from the depths of the mountain. One of the most famous items extracted was the Arkenstone, a priceless jewel that dazzled the eyes of whoever beheld it. The prosperity of Erebor led to the construction of the town of Dale, built by Men between the slopes of the mountain. The relationship between the Dwarves and Men of Dale was marked by respect and mutual prosperity, turning the region into a bustling trade center.

The Sack of Erebor

The golden era of Erebor was short-lived. In T.A. 2770, the great dragon Smaug descended on the mountain, driven by a lust for Dwarven riches. Dale was destroyed, and the Lonely Mountain fell into ruins for nearly two centuries. Smaug took up residence in the innermost chamber, hoarding the vast wealth of the mountain. No one dared approach it during his reign of terror.

The Return of Thorin II

Thorin II, a distant relative of the Longbeards, sought to reclaim Erebor. With the aid of the wizard Gandalf and the Hobbit Bilbo Baggins, Thorin and his company managed to retake the city in T.A. 2941. However, Thorin succumbed to what was known as Dragon Sickness, and refused to share any of the treasure with the Men of Esgaroth, which led to a conflict known as the Battle under the Mountain.

The Battle and Aftermath

The battle was a bloody conflict between the Elves, Men, and Dwarves against a host of Orcs and Wargs. The allies were saved at the last moment by the arrival of the Eagles and Beorn, a shape-shifting warrior. Following the battle, Thorin II was slain, and Dáin Ironfoot, the cousin of Thorin, succeeded him as King under the Mountain.

Implications and Legacies

The tale of Erebor is not just a story of wealth and conflict, but also one of resilience and the enduring spirit of those who seek to reclaim what was lost. Its journey from prosperity to desolation and back again reflects the broader themes of The Lord of the Rings, such as power, shared responsibility, and the struggle against darkness. Erebor stands as a testament to the historical and cultural significance of the events that shaped Middle-earth.

Historical Context and Regional Impact

The events surrounding Erebor had a profound impact on the region of Eriador, the northern lands surrounding the Shadow. While nothing "happened" to Eriador as a whole, it experienced a series of administrative, economic, and infrastructural changes. The decline of Erebor led to a communications and population implosion, leaving the region largely desolate and abandoned, with only a few exceptions. The region was dominated by Arnor, a successor kingdom to the once-prosperous realm of Arnor, which itself fell due to internal strife and external threats.

Key Takeaways

Erebor: A central location in Middle-earth with a rich history of wealth, conflict, and recovery. Lord of the Rings: A series of novels and films that explore themes of power, duty, and the struggle against darkness. Dwarves: An often-overlooked but crucial race in the Tolkien universe, known for their skill in mining and fortress building.

Desolation: A condition that marked the aftermath of Smaug's sack and represented the despair and decay that darkness can bring.

Conclusion

The tale of Erebor is a poignant reminder of the cyclical nature of history, where prosperity and desolation can follow one another, driven by the actions of powerful individuals and the compounded effects of time. Erebor embodies the resilience and enduring spirit of those who seek to claim the fate of their lands and destinies, making it a crucial and captivating part of Tolkien's rich tapestry of Middle-earth.