Wk. 8 Ch. 10 The importance of mothers

[Sparrow]

When the captain of the guard of Lake-town asks Thorin to identify Fili and Kili, he does so not by name but as “The sons of my father’s daughter.” Why does he phrase his answer this way? Why not by name or as “my nephews”? Is this simply an example of formal, flowery language? Does Thorin’s choice of words indicate something significant to maternal descent? Bonus: Find where we have had a similar discussion before and link it to this discussion.

[Desi Baggins]

I feel that he introduces them this way because it shows how they are related to Thráin II whom is known and liked by the men of Lake-Town. By saying they are his nephews it leaves it open as to on Thorin's mother (who is unknown) or father's side.

As far as the bonus I believe we discussed how the dwarves introduce themselves and how proud they are of themselves. I have to find the exact thread still...

[Stormrider]

Stating the exact trail of lineage tells us which nephews Fili and Kili are. They could have been the sons of "his father's son." (another brother for example?) It seems Thorin only had one sister.