The Hobbit: Chapters 14–19 quiz

These chapters use many words appropriate for warfare.
Which of the following best defines 'parley' in a military context and uses it correctly in a sentence?

• Definition: A conference or discussion, especially between enemies, under a truce to discuss terms.
  Sentence: The two armies agreed to a parley to negotiate a ceasefire.

• Definition: A sudden attack or raid on an enemy position.
  Sentence: The general ordered a parley at dawn to surprise the enemy.

• Definition: A defensive wall or barrier built to protect against attack.
  Sentence: The soldiers constructed a parley around the camp for safety.

• Definition: A secret message sent to allies behind enemy lines.
  Sentence: The spy delivered a parley to the resistance fighters.

What is the best definition of "hauberk" in a military context?

• Definition: A piece of armor originally covering only the neck and shoulders, but later consisting of a full-length coat of mail or military tunic.

• Definition: A type of medieval siege weapon used to breach castle walls.

• Definition: A ceremonial flag carried by knights during parades.

• Definition: A fortified tower used for archers in battle.

Which of the following best defines "mail" in a military context and uses it correctly in a sentence?

• Definition: Armor made of metal rings or plates, used for protection in battle.
  Sentence: The warrior's mail glinted in the sunlight as he prepared for combat.

• Definition: A written message sent from one person to another.
  Sentence: The general sent a mail to his troops with new orders.

• Definition: A type of weapon used in ancient battles.
  Sentence: The soldier sharpened his mail before the fight.

• Definition: A signal flag used to communicate on the battlefield.
  Sentence: The captain raised the mail to alert his men.

Which of the following best defines 'dominion' in a military context and uses it correctly in a sentence?

• Definition: Sovereignty or control; the power to rule.
  Sentence: The king's dominion extended over the entire region.

• Definition: A type of weapon used in battle.
  Sentence: The soldiers carried dominions into the fight.

• Definition: A temporary ceasefire between two armies.
  Sentence: The generals agreed to a dominion to discuss peace terms.

• Definition: A defensive wall built around a city.
  Sentence: The dominion protected the city from invaders.

Which of the following best defines 'vanguard' in a military context and uses it correctly in a sentence?

• Definition: The foremost part of an advancing army or naval force.
  Sentence: The vanguard led the charge into enemy territory.

• Definition: The rear guard of a retreating army.
  Sentence: The vanguard protected the army as it withdrew.

• Definition: A temporary camp set up by soldiers.
  Sentence: The vanguard was established near the river for the night.

• Definition: The supply unit responsible for food and ammunition.
  Sentence: The vanguard delivered rations to the front lines.

Which of the following best defines 'scimitar' in a military context and uses it in a sentence?

• Definition: A short sword with a curved blade that broadens toward the point, originally used in Eastern countries. Sentence: The warrior drew his scimitar and prepared for battle.

• Definition: A type of heavy armor worn by knights in medieval Europe. Sentence: The soldier polished his scimitar before the parade.

• Definition: A long spear used for throwing in ancient battles. Sentence: The general ordered his men to ready their scimitars for the charge.

• Definition: A defensive wall built to protect a fortress. Sentence: The army breached the enemy's scimitar at dawn.

Define the word 'flank'.

• The side of a person's or animal's body between the ribs and the hip.

• A type of bird found in wetlands.

• A tool used for digging soil.

• A musical instrument played with strings.

Define the word 'helm'.

• A helmet, a protective head covering, or the position of control or leadership.

• A type of boat used for fishing.

• A musical instrument played with strings.

• A traditional dance from Europe.

How do the people of the Lake protect themselves against Smaug’s attack, and what does the Master do at the same time?

• The people try to defend the town with arrows and water, while the Master flees in a boat.

• The people hide in caves, while the Master fights Smaug.

• The people surrender to Smaug, while the Master negotiates with him.

• The people build a wall, while the Master leads the defense.

Who kills Smaug, and what help does his slayer receive in accomplishing this?

• Bard kills Smaug with the help of a thrush that tells him about the weak spot.

• Thorin kills Smaug with the help of the dwarves.

• Bilbo kills Smaug with the help of the ring.

• Gandalf kills Smaug with the help of magic.