A Tale of Ages: Bilbo Baggins vs. Thorin Oakenshield

In the heart of Middle-earth, two notable characters from J.R.R. Tolkien's masterpieces stand the test of time - Bilbo Baggins and Thorin Oakenshield. This article delves into the ages of these beloved dwarves, presenting a detailed analysis of their lifespans and the events that shaped their journeys.

Origins and Early Lives

Thorin Oakenshield, the charismatic and brave leader of the dwarves, was born into an era of turmoil and strife. The origin of Thorin is steeped in the legends of the north. He hailed from the famed lineage of distant kings, with a storied heritage that predates the fiery sojourn that would eventually bring him to the frigid nearing of his fifties.

Littler is known about Thrain, Thorin's father, than there is about Thror, his grandfather. However, it is evident that Thrain was not yet an adult when Thorin was still a mere teenager. This places Thorin's age at around the age of 60 during the throne-claiming event and at around 120 when the fateful quest to claims back Erebor with Bilbo Baggins and his company.

The Quest of Erebor

During the epic quest to reclaim the Lonely Mountains, Thorin was already in the prime of his life. At this point, he was around 140 years old - a seasoned warrior and the undisputed leader of his people. The harsh conditions, battles with goblins, and the eventual resistance by the dragons and orcs dwindling his troop's strength only served to bolster his resolve and wisdom. One notable event was the assault by goblins and wargs, which resulted in the capture of Bilbo. Bilbo, who turned 50 years old that year, was promptly rescued by Thorin and the few remaining members of the company, including a wounded Balin and Kili.

Narrative Closure and Last Years

Following the successful reclaiming of Erebor, Thorin's life entered its twilight years. He did not live to see the full might of the renewed Durin's line, as his untimely death by the hand of the monstrous Bolg at the Battle of Five Armies marked the end of a long and storied life. Despite his heroic efforts, Thorin did not survive to see the prosperity of his people after the battle.

Bilbo Baggins and His Youth

Bilbo Baggins embarked on his journey a full 100 years after Thorin's first foray into the quest for Erebor. When Bilbo arrived at Lake-town, he was a newly turned 50 - a milestone that marked the beginning of his adventure and a life beyond the comfort of the Shire.

Bilbo's journey with the dwarves started when he managed to sneak away from his home in the Shire, leaving behind the familiar comforts he once enjoyed. This adventurous choice, while unforeseen by most, initiated a chain of events that would see him become a hero in his own right. His role in the Quest of Erebor was pivotal, providing the cunning and wit that the dwarves lacked, even as they were full of the thrill of their quest.

Aftermath and Legacy

Following the successful quest and the reclamation of Erebor, Bilbo returned to the Shire, a changed man. His 111th birthday, highly celebrated by the Shire-folk, signaled a newfound appreciation for a life well-lived. No longer content with the mundane, Bilbo authored his memoir, often referred to as the Prologue to the greater narrative of the Hobbits and the Elder Race, imbuing it with valuable insights and wisdom.

Conclusion

The question of who is older between Bilbo Baggins and Thorin Oakenshield involves a deep dive into the lore and chronology of Tolkien's Middle-earth. While Bilbo embarked on his legendary adventure a mere 100 years after Thorin's quest for Erebor, Thorin's tenure in the narrative spans a considerably longer period. Each character's journey was defined by their unique strengths and limitations, contributing significantly to the rich tapestry of Tolkien's epic tales. Through their virtues, they have left indelible imprints, marking the ages with their heroism and legacy.