How Long Did Smaug Live in the Lonely Mountain?
In the enchanting world of J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit,” the dragon Smaug holds a significant place in the narrative. One of the most intriguing questions that arise from the story is: how long did Smaug live in the Lonely Mountain? To understand the longevity of this fearsome creature, we must delve into the lore and the events that shaped his existence.
Smaug, also known as Smaug the Magnificent, was a dragon of considerable power and wisdom. He had been in the Lonely Mountain for centuries before Bilbo Baggins and his companions arrived. According to the story, Smaug had been living in the mountain for about 150 years before the events of “The Hobbit” took place. This long residency in the mountain allowed him to accumulate vast treasures, including the legendary Arkenstone.
The dragon’s longevity can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, dragons are known for their long lifespans, with some even living for over a thousand years. Secondly, Smaug’s diet, consisting mainly of gold and jewels, contributed to his longevity. Gold, in particular, is believed to have magical properties that can extend one’s life. Lastly, Smaug’s cunning and intelligence played a role in his survival. He was able to outsmart his enemies and adapt to the changing world around him.
During his time in the Lonely Mountain, Smaug became a legend among the Dwarves. They spoke of his might and power, and his presence in the mountain became a source of fear and awe. However, his reign of terror came to an end when Bilbo Baggins, a humble hobbit, inadvertently discovered the dragon’s lair and stole the Arkenstone. This act of thievery would ultimately lead to Smaug’s downfall and the liberation of the Lonely Mountain.
In conclusion, Smaug lived in the Lonely Mountain for approximately 150 years before his demise. His longevity can be attributed to his long lifespan, magical diet, and intelligence. The dragon’s reign in the mountain left an indelible mark on the world of Middle-earth, and his story continues to captivate readers to this day.
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Here are 20 comments from readers on this article:
1. ” Fascinating article! I never realized how much gold Smaug consumed over the years.”
2. “I always wondered how Smaug managed to stay in the mountain for so long without being disturbed.”
3. “Great analysis of Smaug’s longevity. I never thought about the magical properties of gold before.”
4. “I love how the article connects Smaug’s diet to his longevity. It’s a unique perspective.”
5. “I’m curious to know more about the Dwarves’ perspective on Smaug’s reign in the Lonely Mountain.”
6. “The article made me appreciate the complexity of Smaug’s character even more.”
7. “It’s amazing how Tolkien managed to create such a vivid and believable world.”
8. “I never realized that Smaug’s intelligence played a role in his survival. That’s interesting.”
9. “I think the article could have included more details about Bilbo’s role in Smaug’s downfall.”
10. “The article made me want to re-read “The Hobbit” and pay closer attention to Smaug’s story.”
11. “I love how the article ties Smaug’s story to the broader narrative of Middle-earth.”
12. “The author did a great job explaining the factors that contributed to Smaug’s longevity.”
13. “I’m curious to know if other dragons in Tolkien’s works have similar longevity.”
14. “The article made me appreciate the magical elements in “The Hobbit” even more.”
15. “It’s fascinating how Smaug’s story reflects the struggles of power and greed.”
16. “I think the article could have included more quotes from the book to support its points.”
17. “The author’s writing style is engaging and easy to follow.”
18. “I love how the article highlights the importance of courage in overcoming adversity.”
19. “The article made me want to explore more of Tolkien’s works.”
20. “It’s a great reminder of the timeless appeal of “The Hobbit” and its characters.
