What is the Battle of the Five Armies?

The Battle of the Five Armies is an epic battle that takes place in J.R.R. Tolkien's novel 'The Hobbit', as well as its film adaptation. The battle is fought by five armies: the Dwarves of the Lonely Mountain, led by Thorin Oakenshield; the Men of Lake-town, led by Bard the Bowman; the Elves of Mirkwood, led by Thranduil; the Eagles of the Misty Mountains, led by Gwaihir; and the Orcs and Wargs of the Misty Mountains, led by Azog the Defiler.

The battle is the climax of the story, as the armies fight for control of the treasure hoard of the dragon Smaug, which has been taken over by Thorin and his company of Dwarves. The battle is fierce and brutal, with many casualties on both sides, but ultimately the Dwarves, Men, and Elves emerge victorious.

The Battle of the Five Armies is significant because it marks the end of the journey of Bilbo Baggins, the protagonist of the story, and also sets the stage for the events of 'The Lord of the Rings', which takes place many years later.