The Powerful Influence of Daenerys Targaryen

It is no secret that traditional religious structures are certainly in place in the Game of Thrones universe, however, an interesting change in perspective is to consider the characters that become prominent figures in their community and gain a following in the way that a religious figure might. This in unconventional as these characters are not Gods, which is typically a necessity in order to call a following a religion, however, these characters tends to achieve something great, and are ultimately looked up to by the masses. Not only do these characters achieve something great, but they typically rise up against the odds by having magical or nonhuman elements of their being help them succeed.

A prominent character who exemplifies this definition of ungodly-godliness is Daenerys Targaryen. She is the only daughter of Aerys Targaryen (also known as the "mad king"). Her father was murdered by the usurper Robert Baratheon as a part of "Robert's Rebellion" as it was clear Aerys was no longer fit to rule. Although Daeny recognises the terrible things her father did, she begins her quest to gain back the iron throne that she claims is still rightfully her family's. This strength that she displays is exactly why she becomes a prominent figure in her followers lives.

Daenerys starts off the series by being an underdog as she is overshadowed by her brother Viserys who wishes to gain back the throne for himself. They are the only two known Targaryen's left in the world, therefore have had to hide for a long time out of the risk of being killed. However, Viserys uses Daenerys to be sold into a marriage with the King of the Dothraki people so he can gain men for his army. Daenerys does not want to be married off, but gets threatened by her brother to do so for the greater good. This is likely the lowest point for her in the series as she has no control over her life. However, it only rises from this point for her.

Dragons as a Symbol of Uprising Against Oppression

The first symbol of Daenerys as a rising religious figure is when her dragons are born. On the day of her wedding she is gifted three dragons eggs that have been turned into stone with passage of time as no living dragons have existed on the planet in centuries. However, the dragon is a huge symbol of her family as Targaryen's are known to rise up from the ashes, and also have uncontrollable tempers. Yet, she represents only the former which makes people respect her.

Her dragons are born out of fire as she burns alive the witch who curses her husband and unborn child, leaving her with neither. This fire is symbolic of the rage that she feels in this moment as this woman has taken everything from her. So, she places the dragon's eggs in the dirt, ties the witch to the post, and catches it on fire. Daenerys then begins then to step into the fire, which is seen as a suicide attempt by everyone, however, the next morning she wakes, unburned by the fire, and accompanied by her three newborn dragons. This is a huge moment in the series as it begins to put Dany in a more dominant position. After this she is worshipped by all those who witnessed the event. She is now seen as a God who can survive fire and bring dragons back to the earth.