Race: Human (Valyrian)
Transcendent: Dragonrider
Sex: Female
Faction: House Targaryen
Overall Rating: 7.2
Alignment: Chaotic Good
Arena Status: Active (S1)
Daenerys Targaryen, also known as Dany or Daenerys Stormborn, is a character that sparkles with complexity and contradiction in George R.R. Martin's epic series, "A Song of Ice and Fire."
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| Daenerys Stormborn, by @SE7ENTHIRDS |
Daenerys is the last living member of the Targaryen dynasty that once ruled the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros. The family's emblem is a dragon, and they were known for dragon-riding and a distinctive silver-haired appearance.
[SPOILERS AHEAD]
Daenerys's story starts in exile, a far cry from her royal lineage. Her brother Viserys, obsessed with reclaiming the throne, marries her off to Khal Drogo, a Dothraki warlord. The transformation begins here as she learns to embrace her new identity as Khaleesi (queen) of the Dothraki.
"I am Daenerys Stormborn of House Targaryen, the Unburnt, Mother of Dragons, khaleesi to Drogo's riders, and queen of the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros." - A Clash of Kings
As she grows into her power, Daenerys makes it her mission to free the oppressed. With her dragons, she begins a conquest across Slaver's Bay, liberating cities and amassing an army.
"I will take what is mine with fire and blood." - A Storm of Swords
In the city of Meereen, Daenerys faces the true complexities of leadership. She struggles with the nuances of politics, governance, and the stark reality that liberation doesn't always translate to stability. As of now, the story of Daenerys in the books is still unfolding, with two more novels expected. Fans are waiting with bated breath to see the conclusion of her journey.
Daenerys's character is an amalgamation of contradictions, and therein lies her appeal. She is both a liberator and conqueror, a loving mother figure and a ruthless queen, an inexperienced girl and a wise leader. Her connection to dragons is not merely symbolic of her Targaryen blood but reflects her character's fire and ferocity. The dragons, at once beautiful and terrifying, parallel her dual nature.
Daenerys Targaryen is more than just a character; she's a phenomenon. Her journey is emblematic of a broader human struggle, filled with triumphs and tragedies. Through her, Martin explores themes of power, freedom, identity, morality, and the intricate dance between good and evil.
Daenerys's story is one of growth, resilience, and transformation. It's a tale that inspires awe and invites reflection, a narrative that prompts us to question our values and assumptions about leadership, liberation, and the very nature of heroism.
"I am not your little princess. I am Daenerys Stormborn of the blood of old Valyria, and I will take what is mine. With fire and blood, I will take it." - A Clash of Kings
Her story is a rich tapestry, and this blog post aims to unravel it in all its complex glory, exploring the character of Daenerys Targaryen in depth, the decisions she makes, the paths she takes, and the ever-present, ever-burning fire within.
Daenerys Targaryen's Raw Power
Daenerys Targaryen's "raw power" is a significant aspect of her character, primarily emanating from her possession and control of dragons. In George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" series, dragons are portrayed as magnificent and devastating creatures, capable of immense destruction. Daenerys's command over these beasts grants her an extraordinary level of power within the fantasy world.
"Dracarys," she sang out loudly, sweetly, all her fear forgotten. "Dracarys, dracarys." And she heard the third one answer. - A Storm of Swords
In addition to her dragons, Daenerys's Targaryen blood grants her a unique connection to fire, allowing her to withstand intense heat. Her magical resilience is further exemplified when she emerges unscathed from a funeral pyre, marking the birth of her dragons.
Daenerys's raw power is not characterized by physical strength or spellcasting abilities, but rather by her dominion over dragons and her innate connection to fire. These traits set her apart from other characters and grant her a widespread influence.
Compared to all fantasy characters across various universes, including her ancestor Daemon, who is rated at 7.5 for his martial prowess and personal dragon-riding skills, Daenerys's power is more symbolic and far-reaching. While she may not possess the specialized combat skills of her ancestor, her control over dragons and her magical abilities place her as a powerful figure.
Considering these factors, Daenerys's rating in the category of raw power could be placed at 7. Her connection to dragons and her magical affinity with fire make her a formidable presence, though her lack of traditional combat skills and her reliance on the dragons prevent her from ranking higher. Her unique relationship with these mythical creatures and her Targaryen lineage place her as an influential character in the world of fantasy literature. As is touched on in the overall conclusion, we expect this rating will grow in the final installments. As a point of reference, "show" Dany would likely score an 8.5 for Raw Power.
Daenerys Targaryen's Tactical Ability
Daenerys Targaryen's "tactical ability" is a complex blend of intuition, courage, adaptability, and, at times, ruthless decision-making. Her rise from a timid girl, pawned by her brother, to a powerful queen with formidable armies and dragons, illustrates her ability to strategize and maneuver through treacherous political landscapes.
In the early books, Daenerys's tactical abilities may seem less refined, driven more by a strong sense of justice and will than by cunning. However, as the series progresses, her strategic thinking matures. Her decisions to free the Unsullied and win over the Dothraki, for example, showcase a growing mastery of tactics.
"A dragon is no slave," she said. She touched the dragon's head, and her fingers came away wet with blood, where the pale skin of its right eye had ripped open. "Dracarys." - A Storm of Swords
In this moment, Daenerys uses her dragons tactically to gain the Unsullied's allegiance. Her courage, combined with a well-planned trap, allows her to turn the situation to her favor. This blend of cunning and boldness is a hallmark of her tactical style.
However, Daenerys's tactical decisions are not without flaws. Her inexperience and emotional nature sometimes lead her astray, particularly when navigating the complex political arena of Meereen. Her struggle with ruling and maintaining control in a foreign city reveals the limits of her tactical prowess.
Considering her growth and achievements in the series, along with her mistakes and occasional naiveté, Dany's tactical ability can be rated at 6.5 out of 10 when compared to all fantasy characters across various universes. While she demonstrates significant growth and achieves notable victories, her tactical approach is sometimes overshadowed by her determination and strong moral compass.
Her rating reflects a character with considerable tactical ability but one who still struggles to balance her ideals with the often brutal reality of politics and warfare. Her mix of boldness and ingenuity places her above average in this category but does not elevate her to the level of more experienced or naturally gifted tacticians in the broader realm of fantasy literature. Her story is one of growth, and her tactical decisions reflect her evolving understanding of leadership and power. As is touched on in the overall conclusion, we expect this rating will grow in the final installments. As a point of reference, "show" Dany would likely score at least an 8 for Tactical Ability, in consideration of her conquest, albeit brief, of Westeros.
Daenerys Targaryen's Influence
Daenerys Targaryen's influence and ability to sway others form an essential aspect of her character, woven into her journey from an exiled princess to a formidable ruler in the "A Song of Ice and Fire" series. Her influence stems from a variety of sources, including her charismatic leadership, inspiring ideals, and, of course, her possession of dragons.
"I will take what is mine with fire and blood." - A Game of Thrones
Her determination and passion inspire loyalty among various groups and individuals. Whether it's the Unsullied, who follow her due to her act of liberation, or Tyrion Lannister, who sees in her a leader worthy of the Iron Throne, Dany's influence transcends cultural and geographical boundaries.
Her dragons, rare and mythical creatures, enhance her influence. They symbolize power and a connection to a storied legacy, helping her rally support and impose her will.
However, her influence is not absolute. Her rule in Meereen shows the limits of her ability to persuade, as she grapples with entrenched cultural practices and a resistant nobility. Her methods and principles sometimes clash with those she seeks to lead, limiting her effectiveness.
Taking into account her significant achievements in winning hearts and minds, alongside her struggles to fully harness her influence in various contexts, Dany's rating in the category of Influence can be placed at 7.5 out of 10. This reflects her impressive ability to inspire and lead but acknowledges the complexity and occasional shortcomings of her influence.
Her influence echoes across the Known World, yet it is nuanced and imperfect. Dany's journey is one of learning how to wield power and influence, recognizing that charisma and ideals must be balanced with understanding, empathy, and, at times, compromise. Her rating in this category recognizes both her strengths and the lessons yet to be learned, placing her among the more influential characters in the realm of fantasy, but not at the very top.
Daenerys Targaryen's Resilience
Daenerys Targaryen's resilience is a defining characteristic throughout her arduous journey in the "A Song of Ice and Fire" series by George R.R. Martin. Her resilience manifests in her ability to overcome numerous challenges, setbacks, and betrayals.
At the beginning of her story, Dany is a shy, frightened girl who is forced into marriage with Khal Drogo. Over time, she learns to assert herself and embrace her identity as a Targaryen and a leader. Her transformation is evident in the moment she survives the funeral pyre, hatching her dragons:
"She had sensed the truth of it long ago, Dany thought as she took a step closer to the conflagration, but the brazier had not been hot enough." - A Game of Thrones
Her resilience is further tested as she faces a multitude of political, personal, and strategic setbacks. Whether navigating the treacherous politics of Slaver's Bay, losing trusted allies, or dealing with the unpredictable nature of her dragons, Dany demonstrates a persistent ability to rebound.
"I am Daenerys Stormborn of House Targaryen, the Unburnt, Mother of Dragons, khaleesi to Drogo's riders, and queen of the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros." - A Clash of Kings
Her titles are a testament to her resilience. Each reflects a hurdle overcome or a trial endured. Her strength doesn't just lie in her ability to endure; it's also in her capacity to learn, adapt, and grow stronger from each experience.
Yet, her resilience has its limits. She occasionally succumbs to impulsiveness and emotional reactions, especially when her dragons or those she loves are threatened. This vulnerability adds complexity to her character but can sometimes hamper her recovery from setbacks.
In comparison to all fantasy characters across different universes, Daenerys's resilience is impressive but not unparalleled. Her journey is fraught with challenges, but her internal strength and determination are her guiding lights.
Considering her ability to adapt, endure, and grow, along with her occasional vulnerabilities, a rating of 8 out of 10 seems fitting for her resilience. It acknowledges her remarkable fortitude while recognizing that her resilience, like all aspects of her character, is nuanced and shaped by her unique experiences and challenges.
Daenerys Targaryen's Versatility
Daenerys Targaryen's versatility is a complex blend of her adaptability, skills, and abilities, making her a standout character in George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire."
From a young age, Dany is thrust into unfamiliar and hostile environments. Her ability to adapt is first showcased when she is sold into marriage to Khal Drogo, a leader of a culture drastically different from her own. Despite initial struggles, she learns the Dothraki language and ways, gaining the respect of her khalasar.
"She was learning to be a queen, and everything was new." - A Game of Thrones
Her leadership skills are further honed as she frees cities, liberates slaves, and builds an army. She shows a willingness to learn from her advisors and to make challenging decisions, blending different political systems and cultural norms.
Her versatility is also evident in her interactions with her dragons. Initially, controlling them with no prior knowledge, she learns to command them, incorporating them into her military tactics and strategies.
However, Dany's versatility has limits. While she is adaptable, her rigid moral code can sometimes impede her ability to compromise, as seen in her dealings with slavers and ruling Meereen.
In the grand scheme of all fantasy characters across various universes, Dany's versatility is commendable but not without flaws. She's able to adapt to vastly different situations and utilize a wide range of skills. Yet, her inflexibility in certain scenarios and reliance on her dragons and advisors can hinder her effectiveness in some situations.
Therefore, a rating of 7 out of 10 encapsulates her range of skills and adaptability, acknowledging both her strengths and weaknesses in this category. Her ability to traverse different cultures, lead with evolving tactics, and learn from her surroundings and mentors illustrates a complex versatility that makes her character both compelling and multidimensional in the sprawling landscape of fantasy literature.
Daenerys Targaryen's Alignment
Daenerys Targaryen, often referred to as "Dany" or "Khaleesi," is one of the most iconic characters in George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire." Born into the exiled Targaryen dynasty, she is driven by a desire to reclaim the Iron Throne. Throughout the series, Dany evolves from a timid girl into a formidable and complex leader. Her journey takes her across the lands of Essos, where she learns to rule, emancipates slaves, and tames dragons. Her character is marked by a strong moral compass, a willingness to adapt, but also an uncompromising stance on certain issues. Dany's transformation and her ability to lead diverse groups and command dragons have made her a symbol of power and change.
Dany's character is best described as Chaotic. She often operates outside established laws, challenging traditional norms, and creating her path. Her attempts to dismantle the slave trade and her willingness to utilize unconventional methods demonstrate her disregard for existing legal systems when they conflict with her beliefs and goals.
In terms of morality, Dany falls into the Good category. She is driven by a desire to liberate the oppressed, and her intentions are predominantly altruistic. However, her means to achieve these goals can be ruthless, and her strict adherence to her principles sometimes leads to morally complex decisions.
It's important to note that these categorizations are not absolute and may shift as the character continues to develop in the yet-to-be-released final installments of the series. The complexity of her character and the morally ambiguous world of "A Song of Ice and Fire" make it challenging to neatly place her within traditional alignment categories. Her final alignment will likely become more apparent at the completion of her story. Pride and Prophecy keeps an updated character alignment matrix across all planes of existence.
Daenerys Targaryen Arena Art
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| Daenerys Targaryen Preparing for Battle |
Dany's Trophy Case
PPET Rankings
| Season | Rank |
|---|---|
| 1 (2023-2024) | #47 (of 107) |
Titles & Postseason Results
| Season | Result | All Time Occurence |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (2023-2024) | Conference Tournament Champion (A Song of Ice and Fire) | 1st |
| 1 (2023-2024) | Grand Championship Bid (#6 Seed) | 1st |
Overall Conclusion on Daenerys Targaryen and Position Across Planes of Existence
Daenerys Targaryen's journey in George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" is filled with growth, complexity, and ambiguity. Her ranking at 7.2 in the realm of fantasy characters reflects a nuanced understanding of her abilities across various domains, such as Raw Power, Tactical Ability, Influence, Resilience, and Versatility. Let's break down these domains to justify this rating:
Dany's raw power is primarily associated with her dragons, who symbolize her strength and potential. As of "A Dance with Dragons," her dragons are not yet fully grown or entirely under her command. This limits her overall power, but the promise they hold is significant. Her ancestor Daemon was ranked at 7.5 due to his martial prowess and dragon, and Dany's potential in this area could well exceed his as her dragons mature.
Her ranking in tactical ability might seem low, while she has shown instances of brilliant strategic thinking, she has also struggled with governance and handling political complexities. Her youth and inexperience in managing a city embroiled in political turmoil have impacted her rating here. But as she learns and adapts, this rating may rise.
Dany's ability to inspire, lead, and sway others is well-documented. Her charismatic leadership has won over disparate groups of followers. However, her struggles with managing conflicting interests and maintaining loyalty among various factions have somewhat lowered this score.
Throughout her journey, Dany has demonstrated a remarkable ability to bounce back from setbacks and defeats. Her resilience is one of her defining traits, enabling her to learn and grow from her experiences.
Dany's versatility is seen in her adaptability to different cultures, ability to learn quickly, and her multifaceted approach to leadership. However, her insistence on certain principles has at times hindered her adaptability to complex situations.
The cumulative rating of 7.2 situates Dany as an above-average character in terms of power level but not among the most powerful across all fantasy. This positioning is nuanced and considers her potential and current limitations. It's essential to note that her character is still evolving, and the final books in the series may lead to a reassessment of these ratings. Her position in "A Dance with Dragons," with Meereen in political disaster and her dragons not yet fully under her command, doesn't bode well for these ratings, but we expect she will improve.
The broader perspective of Dany across planes of existence must consider not only her objective abilities but her symbolic status as a breaker of chains, a liberator, and a complex, morally ambiguous figure. Her influence reaches beyond her fictional world and resonates with readers, adding another layer to her significance. Pride and Prophecy keeps an updated power ranking across all planes of existence. This will only be sortable on desktop viewing. The below table shows a summary within the same plane of existence of this article.
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