Game of Thrones, Episode 1: Winter is Coming
Daenerys Targaryen’s Role in the Episode
Daenerys Targaryen’s role in this episode is primarily focused on setting up her tragic backstory, oppressive relationship with her brother Viserys, and her arranged marriage to Khal Drogo, which will serve as the foundation for her future character development.
1. Introduction in Pentos
- She is introduced as a timid and submissive figure, dominated by her brother Viserys, who objectifies her and treats her as a mere bargaining tool for his quest to reclaim the Iron Throne.
- Viserys undresses her against her will, examining her body to ensure she will please Khal Drogo, emphasizing his cruelty and control over her.
- Her silence and compliance highlight her powerless position at the start of the series.
2. Meeting Khal Drogo
- Daenerys is introduced to Khal Drogo, the powerful Dothraki warlord. The encounter is silent but tense, with Drogo assessing her before riding away without a word.
- Illyrio Mopatis reassures Viserys that Drogo’s interest is clear, foreshadowing the arranged marriage that is central to Daenerys’ arc.
3. Wedding and Gifts
- The Dothraki wedding is violent and chaotic, reflecting their warrior culture.
- Daenerys receives three dragon eggs as a wedding gift from Illyrio, a symbolic and foreshadowing moment that hints at her destiny as the Mother of Dragons.
- She also meets Ser Jorah Mormont, who gifts her books about the Seven Kingdoms, setting up his role as an advisor and protector.
4. Wedding Night with Drogo
- The episode ends with a deeply unsettling and emotional scene where Daenerys, isolated and afraid, is forced into a marriage she does not want.
- Drogo initially shows a moment of unexpected tenderness, wiping away her tears, but ultimately asserts his dominance as she quietly submits to her fate.
- This marks the lowest point in her story, reinforcing how powerless she is at this stage.
Impact Rating: 7.5/10
- Strong Character Establishment – Daenerys is introduced as oppressed, vulnerable, and fearful, which lays the groundwork for her eventual transformation into a powerful leader.
- Key Foreshadowing – The dragon eggs and her marriage to Drogo are crucial to her story arc, setting up her rise to power and eventual conquest.
- Emotional Depth – Her silence and fear throughout the episode make her one of the most sympathetic characters, drawing the audience into her journey.
- Minimal Agency – In this episode, Daenerys is entirely passive, with decisions being made for her rather than by her.
- No Immediate Influence on the Plot – While her arc is essential in the long run, she does not yet affect the central Westerosi politics unfolding in Winterfell and King’s Landing.
Final Score: 7.5/10 - Daenerys’ role in this episode is crucial to her long-term story, even if she is largely a passive participant. Her suffering, forced marriage, and symbolic dragon eggs make her one of the most significant figures introduced, ensuring that her arc will be one of the most compelling in the series.