What characters were added to the movie hobbit?

While the movie adaptation of *The Hobbit* added some characters for plot and narrative purposes, it's important to note that most of the additions were not original creations. The film's creators primarily drew upon existing characters and lore from Tolkien's other works, especially *The Lord of the Rings*. Here's a breakdown:

Characters Added from Other Tolkien Works:

* Tauriel: This elf warrior was completely invented for the films. She serves as a love interest for Kili and plays a significant role in the battle against Azog and Bolg.

* Bard: The skilled archer and later King of Dale is heavily expanded upon from his brief mention in *The Hobbit*. His backstory and relationship with Smaug are created for the film.

* Alfrid: This cowardly, ambitious, and somewhat incompetent Master of Lake-town is introduced for the film, though his character type is reminiscent of other Tolkien characters.

* The White Council (Saruman, Gandalf, Elrond, Galadriel): The Council is a pivotal force in *The Lord of the Rings* and is featured prominently in the films, playing a role in guiding Gandalf's actions during the events of *The Hobbit*.

Characters Expanded Upon:

* Radagast the Brown: Though mentioned in *The Hobbit*, Radagast's role is expanded significantly in the films, focusing on his relationship with the White Council and his encounter with the Necromancer (Sauron).

* Thranduil: The Elvenking of Mirkwood is present in the book, but his character is fleshed out considerably in the films, giving him a greater role in the narrative and a more complex relationship with Thorin.

* Azog and Bolg: While Azog is mentioned as the Orc who killed Thorin's father in *The Hobbit*, his role is significantly expanded, becoming the central antagonist in the first two films. Bolg, his son, is also added.

Characters Introduced from Other Tolkien Works:

* Beorn: This shapeshifter is introduced from *The Lord of the Rings*, though his role in the films is mostly based on his brief appearance in *The Hobbit*.

* Legolas: The Elven prince from *The Lord of the Rings* makes a cameo appearance in *The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug*, though his role is quite minor.

Overall, the films introduced several new characters and significantly expanded the roles of existing characters, often drawing upon Tolkien's other works for inspiration. While these additions have been the subject of debate among fans, they undoubtedly contributed to the films' narrative and character development.