Stormy Swordfighting Lessons Begin

Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, a scrawny, unremarkable Viking boy, is thrust into a brutal swordfighting lesson at sea, led by the bellowing Gobber the Belch. The weather is wild, the seas are angry, and the boys—each with their own dragon—struggle to keep up. Hiccup, son of the chief Stoick the Vast, is determined to prove himself despite his lack of physical prowess. His dragon, Toothless, is small, whiny, and hungry, but fiercely loyal. Hiccup's best friend Fishlegs, equally unsporty, warns him against challenging the brutish Dogsbreath the Duhbrain in a swordfight. But Hiccup, desperate to be a hero, volunteers anyway, believing that cleverness and heart might compensate for his lack of brawn.

Humiliation and Shipwreck

The fight with Dogsbreath is a disaster for Hiccup. He's outmatched, mocked, and nearly defeated, saved only by Toothless's timely intervention—biting Dogsbreath's rear. The chaos is interrupted when the ship is holed by a mysterious floating box, forcing everyone overboard. Hiccup, Fishlegs, and Toothless barely survive the freezing waters, clinging to the box. Their miraculous survival is tinged with humiliation, as Hiccup's swordfighting skills are ridiculed and his confidence shaken. The box, it turns out, is a coffin with a dire warning: "DO NOT OPEN."

The Mysterious Floating Coffin

The boys drag the coffin ashore, curiosity overcoming caution. The inscription reveals it belongs to Grimbeard the Ghastly, Hiccup's infamous ancestor, and warns of a curse for any who disturb it. The legend of Grimbeard's lost treasure and his deadly sword, the Stormblade, is well-known. Despite Hiccup's unease, the tribe's greed and excitement grow. Snotlout, Hiccup's arrogant cousin, seizes the moment to belittle Hiccup and assert his own claim to leadership, foreshadowing the rivalry to come.

Grimbeard's Warning Ignored

Against the advice of Hiccup and the wise Old Wrinkly, Stoick and the tribe open the coffin in a public spectacle. Instead of a corpse, they find a living man—Alvin, who claims to be a poor-but-honest farmer. Alvin's hand is a metal claw, lost to a booby trap in the coffin. He produces a treasure map and a riddle, claiming only Grimbeard's true heir and his dragon can find the treasure. The tribe, swept up in dreams of riches, ignores all warnings and prepares for a quest.

Alvin's Arrival and Deception

Alvin quickly ingratiates himself with the tribe, coaching Hiccup in swordfighting and spinning tales. Toothless, however, distrusts Alvin, suspecting he is an Outcast—a notorious tribe of exiled criminals. Hiccup dismisses Toothless's fears, but a seed of doubt is planted. Meanwhile, the tribe obsesses over the treasure, and Hiccup is pressured to train Toothless to sniff out gold, though their efforts are comically unsuccessful compared to Snotlout's dragon, Fireworm.

The Treasure Map and Riddle

The riddle points to the Isle of the Skullions, a place infamous for its deadly, blind, but keen-smelling dragons. Alvin manipulates Stoick into leading a quest, promising glory and the restoration of the tribe's greatness. Hiccup and Fishlegs are terrified, knowing the island is a death trap. Nevertheless, the tribe prepares, convinced that bathing to mask their scent will keep them safe from the Skullions.

Training, Doubts, and Rivalries

As the quest approaches, Hiccup's self-doubt grows. He is mocked for his failures, overshadowed by Snotlout's successes, and burdened by his father's expectations. Alvin continues to coach Hiccup, but Toothless's suspicions deepen. The tribe's obsession with treasure and heroism blinds them to the dangers ahead, and Hiccup feels increasingly isolated, sensing that disaster looms.

The Isle of the Skullions

The tribe lands on the eerie, lifeless Isle of the Skullions. The landscape is littered with limpet shells and ominous burrows. The plan is simple: split up, let the dragons sniff for treasure, and avoid waking the Skullions. Snotlout and Fireworm quickly find a treasure chest, while Hiccup and Toothless only discover a giant limpet, deepening Hiccup's sense of inadequacy. The chest, marked with Grimbeard's warning, is opened despite Hiccup's protests.

Snotlout's Triumph, Hiccup's Failure

The chest is filled with dazzling treasure and the legendary Stormblade. Snotlout basks in glory, and Stoick claims the sword for himself. But the chest is booby-trapped: a foul stench is released, waking the Skullions. Chaos erupts as the tribe flees for their lives, pursued by the monstrous dragons. Hiccup is nearly killed, but Stoick saves him, and the tribe barely escapes with the treasure.

The Booby-Trapped Treasure

As the tribe sails home, tensions flare over who is the true heir and rightful owner of the treasure. Alvin, revealing his true identity as Alvin the Treacherous, leader of the Outcasts, betrays the tribe. The Outcasts ambush the Hooligans, seizing the treasure and preparing to enslave the tribe. Stoick and Hiccup are singled out for execution, as Alvin claims the Stormblade and prepares to cement his power.

Outcast Betrayal at Sea

The Hooligans are overpowered and chained, their fate seemingly sealed. Alvin's cunning and ruthlessness are on full display as he mocks Stoick and Hiccup, relishing his victory. But Toothless, trapped under a barrel, manages to create a diversion, sparking a desperate battle on the burning ship. In the chaos, the Lucky Thirteen is set ablaze and sinks, trapping Hiccup, Fishlegs, Alvin, and Toothless beneath the waves.

Battle and Sinking of the Lucky Thirteen

Trapped in an air pocket beneath the sunken ship, Hiccup, Fishlegs, and Alvin must work together to survive. As the air runs out, Toothless discovers an underwater tunnel leading to a vast, hidden cavern. The trio escapes, only to find themselves facing a new challenge: a locked door marked with Grimbeard's warning, accessible only to the true heir.

Trapped Beneath the Waves

Alvin forces Hiccup to open the door, convinced that the real treasure lies within. Inside, they find a cavern overflowing with unimaginable riches. But Alvin's greed turns deadly—he intends to kill Hiccup, fulfilling a twisted promise of revenge. A swordfight ensues atop the shifting mounds of treasure, and Hiccup, for the first time, discovers his true talent: he is left-handed, and suddenly, swordfighting comes naturally.

The True Heir's Test

Despite his newfound skill, Hiccup is outmatched by Alvin, who wields the Stormblade. The fight awakens Grimbeard's final booby trap: a monstrous, ancient Strangulator, a tentacled beast that devours Alvin and turns its attention to Hiccup. Using quick thinking and Toothless's help, Hiccup tricks the monster into injecting itself with its own poison, killing it and saving his friends.

Swordfight in the Treasure Cavern

Hiccup's victory is not just physical but moral. He resists the lure of the treasure, recognizing its corrupting influence. He leaves a note for future generations, declaring the treasure "still not ready" to be claimed, and chooses to keep its existence a secret for the good of the tribe. Hiccup, Fishlegs, and Toothless escape the cavern using Toothless's unique dragon abilities, surfacing near home.

Grimbeard's Final Monster

The monstrous Strangulator, left by Grimbeard to guard the treasure, serves as a final lesson: greed and violence beget only more danger. Alvin, consumed by his own ambition, is devoured by the very forces he sought to control. Hiccup's compassion, cleverness, and refusal to seek glory at any cost mark him as the true heir—not just by blood, but by character.

Hiccup's Clever Escape

Hiccup's return is met with relief and celebration, though the tribe never learns the full truth of his heroism. Snotlout's claim to the treasure is rendered meaningless, and Stoick is humbled by the near loss of his son. Hiccup's decision to keep the treasure secret ensures the tribe's safety, and he emerges with a new sense of confidence and purpose.

The Secret of Leadership

Hiccup's journey is one of self-discovery. He learns that heroism is not about glory or strength, but about making difficult, selfless choices. His humility, intelligence, and empathy set him apart from the blustering warriors around him. The story ends with Hiccup reflecting on the nature of leadership and the hope that future generations will use power more wisely.

Homecoming and Hidden Heroism

The tribe welcomes Hiccup, Fishlegs, and Toothless home as survivors, unaware of the true extent of their adventure. Hiccup's heroism remains largely unrecognized, but he is content, knowing he has done what is right. The treasure remains hidden, a secret for a wiser time, and Hiccup's journey toward becoming a true leader has only just begun.

Characters

Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III

Hiccup is the unlikely protagonist: small, awkward, and often overlooked, especially compared to his brawny Viking peers. As the son of Stoick the Vast, he is burdened by expectations he feels ill-equipped to meet. Hiccup's greatest strengths are his intelligence, empathy, and ability to communicate with dragons—skills undervalued in his world. Throughout the story, he wrestles with self-doubt and humiliation, but his resourcefulness and moral compass guide him through danger. His discovery that he is left-handed unlocks his latent swordfighting talent, symbolizing the importance of self-acceptance. Hiccup's refusal to claim the treasure for personal glory, and his decision to keep it secret for the tribe's good, mark his growth into a true leader.

Toothless

Toothless is Hiccup's small, common dragon, often dismissed as weak or useless. He is whiny, stubborn, and motivated by food, but fiercely loyal to Hiccup. Toothless's ability to speak Dragonese and his surprising moments of bravery make him an essential companion. His distrust of Alvin proves prescient, and his quick thinking helps save Hiccup multiple times. Toothless embodies the theme that greatness can come in unexpected forms, and his bond with Hiccup is central to the story's heart.

Stoick the Vast

Stoick is the archetypal Viking chief: huge, loud, and obsessed with strength and glory. He loves Hiccup but struggles to understand his son's differences, often pushing him toward traditional heroism. Stoick's own flaws—greed, pride, and susceptibility to manipulation—are exposed during the quest for treasure. However, his love for Hiccup ultimately overrides his ambitions, and he is humbled by the near loss of his son. Stoick's journey mirrors the tribe's, learning that true greatness lies in compassion and wisdom, not brute force.

Alvin the Treacherous

Alvin initially presents himself as a poor-but-honest farmer, but is soon revealed as the cunning leader of the Outcasts. He is a master manipulator, using charm and deceit to achieve his goals. Alvin's obsession with Grimbeard's treasure and his willingness to betray, enslave, and kill mark him as a classic villain. His downfall comes from his own greed and underestimation of Hiccup, and he is ultimately consumed by the very monster he sought to control. Alvin represents the dangers of unchecked ambition and the corrupting power of treasure.

Fishlegs

Fishlegs is Hiccup's best friend, physically weak and plagued by allergies, but steadfastly loyal. He shares Hiccup's anxieties and often serves as the voice of caution. Despite his fears, Fishlegs displays unexpected bravery, even going "Beserk" in battle. His friendship with Hiccup is a source of strength for both, and his presence highlights the value of loyalty and heart over physical prowess.

Snotlout

Snotlout is Hiccup's cousin and chief rival, embodying the tribe's ideals of strength and aggression. He is a natural leader, skilled in combat, and eager to claim the title of heir. Snotlout's arrogance masks deep insecurity, and his triumphs are often hollow. His rivalry with Hiccup drives much of the story's tension, and his failure to claim the true treasure underscores the emptiness of superficial heroism.

Gobber the Belch

Gobber is the tribe's training master, responsible for teaching the boys the brutal arts of Viking life. He is loud, eccentric, and often exasperated by Hiccup's failures, but ultimately cares for his charges. Gobber's lessons, though harsh, provide the skills that Hiccup and the others need to survive. He represents the old ways of the tribe, but is not without warmth and humor.

Old Wrinkly

Old Wrinkly is the tribe's oldest and wisest member, often ignored by the others. He provides crucial warnings and insights, advocating caution and respect for ancient curses. His wisdom is a counterpoint to the tribe's recklessness, and he serves as a mentor figure for Hiccup, encouraging him to trust his instincts.

Dogsbreath the Duhbrain

Dogsbreath is a classic bully, physically imposing but intellectually limited. He serves as an early obstacle for Hiccup, embodying the tribe's emphasis on strength over smarts. His defeat by Toothless's bite is both comic and symbolic, showing that brute force is not always victorious.

Fireworm

Fireworm is Snotlout's dragon, a Monstrous Nightmare breed, and the antithesis of Toothless. She is powerful, proud, and skilled at sniffing out treasure, reinforcing Snotlout's superiority. Fireworm's rivalry with Toothless mirrors that of their masters, and her eventual failure to find the true treasure underscores the story's theme that greatness is not always obvious.

Plot Devices

The Booby-Trapped Treasure

The recurring motif of booby-trapped treasure serves as both a literal and metaphorical test. Each time the tribe ignores warnings and pursues riches, disaster follows—whether it's a chopped-off hand, a deadly stench, or a monstrous guardian. The traps are not just physical dangers, but moral ones, exposing the tribe's greed and shortsightedness. The true treasure is not gold, but wisdom and self-restraint.

The False Heir and the True Heir

The question of who is the true heir—Snotlout, by blood and bravado, or Hiccup, by character and action—drives the narrative. The riddle and the tests are designed to reveal not just lineage, but the qualities of a true leader: humility, intelligence, and self-sacrifice. The story subverts traditional notions of heroism, rewarding those who act for the greater good rather than personal glory.

Foreshadowing and Irony

The story is rich in foreshadowing: warnings on coffins, Toothless's suspicions, Old Wrinkly's advice, and Hiccup's own doubts all hint at the dangers ahead. The tribe's repeated dismissal of these warnings leads to predictable (and often ironic) consequences. The ultimate irony is that the treasure, so desperately sought, brings only peril, and the true hero is the one who chooses to leave it behind.

Narrative Framing and Memoir

The book is presented as Hiccup's memoir, discovered years later. This framing device allows for reflection, humor, and hindsight, as Hiccup looks back on his youthful misadventures with wisdom and self-deprecation. It also reinforces the theme that true heroism is often unrecognized in its own time.

Analysis

Cressida Cowell's "How to Be a Pirate" is a witty, subversive adventure that challenges traditional notions of heroism, leadership, and worth. Through Hiccup's journey, the story critiques the glorification of violence, greed, and superficial strength, instead celebrating intelligence, empathy, and moral courage. The recurring motif of booby-trapped treasure serves as a metaphor for the dangers of unchecked ambition and the corrupting power of wealth. Hiccup's refusal to claim the treasure, despite the opportunity for glory, marks his growth into a true heir and leader—one who values the well-being of his tribe over personal acclaim. The book's humor, memorable characters, and fast-paced plot make it accessible and engaging, while its deeper themes resonate with modern readers, offering a timeless lesson: true greatness lies not in conquest, but in character.

Last updated: May 17, 2025