Week+5+Discussion

1) Throughout __The Hobbit__, and especially in these chapters, references are made to "luck." For example, Bilbo was chosen to be the "lucky number," and he says he and the dwarves have "tempted luck too long" as they examine Smaug's treasure. Do you believe in luck? Why or why not?

2) Smaug's "dragon-spell" has a powerful effect on Bilbo. What techniques does Smaug use to try to unnerve the hobbit? How are they reminiscent of the serpent's speech in Genesis 3:1-5?

3) Describe the effect the Arkenstone has on those who see it. Do you think Bilbo was right to conceal it from the dwarves? What was his motivation? What do you think will be the results of Bilbo's action?