Did Thorin Give Any Money to Bilbo?

In the classic fantasy novel The Hobbit, the plot revolves around the quest of the dwarves to reclaim their ancestral home under the Lonely Mountain. Many readers wonder about the nature of Thorin Oakenshield's relationship with Bilbo Baggins, specifically if Thorin ever gave him any money. To explore this question, we must delve into the unique circumstances surrounding their contract and the events that unfolded during their journey.

Thorin Oakenshield and the Contract

Thorin Oakenshield, the leader of the Company of Dwarves, was not the only one who stood to benefit from the recovery of the treasure under the Lonely Mountain. Bilbo Baggins, the unlikely hero, was also entitled to a portion of the profits. This arrangement derived from a contractual agreement, as detailed in the writings of J.R.R. Tolkien.

When Thorin was tragically killed, he left Bilbo with a contract that granted him a 1/14th share of any treasures retrieved by the Company. However, Thorin's successor, King Dain Ironfoot, along with the remaining members of the Company, honored this agreement. Bilbo, however, made a choice that would surprise many readers.

Bilbo's Choice

Despite the contractual obligations and the potential wealth at stake, Bilbo decided to take a different path. He chose not to take the entire 1/14th share of the treasure but only the Mithril shirt that Thorin had given him. This shirt, made for a dwarf prince, was described as being invaluable, far more precious than the entire Shire. Additionally, Bilbo decided to take a small chest containing gold and silver coins, about as much as a healthy donkey could carry without complaining too much.

It's worth noting that after accounting for the need to sustain themselves on the journey home, including provisions for food and water, the amount Bilbo took was quite reasonable considering the circumstances. This marked a departure from the typical portrayal of greed and avarice often associated with dwarves in Tolkien's works.

Dwarf Generosity: Gifts and Oaths

Throughout the series, dwarves do show a degree of generosity, particularly in the form of gifts. For instance, Thorin Oakenshield gave the Mithril shirt to Bilbo, not as a monetary compensation but as a token of gratitude. This act of kindness found its reward when the shirt eventually played a critical role in saving Frodo Baggins's life in Moria, proving its immense value.

Bilbo also received other items of gold and precious stones from the dwarves, which they often sent to him as regular articles and gifts, adding to his collection and understanding of the value of such treasures. However, Bilbo's decision to stick to items of personal value (like the Mithril shirt) over vast hoards of gold reflects his more practical and less greedy nature.

Conclusion

While Thorin Oakenshield and the Company of Dwarves did not directly 'give' Bilbo any money, they did honor a contractual agreement, and Bilbo made a meaningful choice that prioritized personal value over material wealth. This reflects the complex character dynamics and financial systems within Tolkien's The Hobbit.

Understanding these nuances offers deeper insight into the relationships and motivations of the characters, highlighting the rich world-building of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit.