Daenerys Targaryen’s storyline in the A Song of Ice and Fire book series by George R.R. Martin diverges significantly from the portrayal in the HBO television adaptation, Game of Thrones. While both narratives depict her rise to power, her relationships, and her ambition to reclaim the Iron Throne, the book series provides a more nuanced and complex character arc, leaving her fate uncertain at the end of A Dance with Dragons. Key differences include the exploration of her internal struggles, her relationship with her dragons, and the political landscape she navigates in Meereen.
Understanding Daenerys’s arc in the books is crucial for comprehending the intricate world-building and character development that define Martin’s work. It allows readers to appreciate the author’s commitment to morally grey characters and complex political machinations. Examining her decisions, motivations, and relationships within the text provides a richer understanding of the themes of power, justice, and destiny prevalent throughout the series. Furthermore, analyzing her narrative allows one to better speculate regarding the potential course of events in the unreleased installments of the book series, especially The Winds of Winter.
The following sections will delve deeper into specific events and character interactions to illustrate the differences and complexities of Daenerys’s journey in the books compared to the television series. This includes an examination of her time in Meereen, her relationship with characters like Barristan Selmy and Tyrion Lannister, and the significant events that culminate in her current situation at the close of A Dance with Dragons, including her encounter with a Khalasar.
To fully comprehend Daenerys Targaryen’s complex journey in George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire, consider the following points when reading and analyzing the texts:
Tip 1: Scrutinize her Internal Monologue. The books provide extensive access to Daenerys’s inner thoughts, revealing her doubts, fears, and evolving motivations. Pay close attention to these internal reflections to understand the complexities of her character and her gradual transformation.
Tip 2: Analyze her Relationships. Her interactions with characters like Barristan Selmy, Jorah Mormont, and Daario Naharis are critical. Note the subtle power dynamics and shifts in loyalty that shape her decisions and influence her path.
Tip 3: Examine her Leadership in Meereen. The challenges she faces ruling Meereen are central to her development. Observe how her attempts to impose Westerosi ideals on a foreign culture lead to unintended consequences and contribute to her political struggles.
Tip 4: Consider the Symbolic Significance of her Dragons. Drogon, Rhaegal, and Viserion are more than just weapons; they represent Daenerys’s power, her connection to her Targaryen heritage, and her capacity for both creation and destruction. Analyze their actions and their relationship with Daenerys to understand the deeper themes at play.
Tip 5: Pay Attention to Prophecies and Visions. The books are filled with prophecies and visions, many of which relate to Daenerys. Carefully consider the ambiguity and potential interpretations of these prophecies, as they often foreshadow future events and reveal hidden aspects of her destiny.
Tip 6: Observe Political and Cultural Differences. Daenerys’s interactions with different cultures, such as the Dothraki and the people of Essos, are crucial. Pay attention to the clashes of values, the political maneuvering, and the implications for her long-term goals.
Tip 7: Acknowledge the Ambiguity of Morality. Martin’s world is not black and white. Daenerys makes morally questionable decisions. Assessing those moments and considering their context is important for a comprehensive understanding of her as a character.
These tips are designed to guide readers in a more nuanced understanding of Daeneryss experiences within the books. By observing these details, one can have a better view of her character and its motivations, as well as how that sets the stage for any future events.
Moving forward, this analysis will serve as a foundation for exploring potential future plot points and the overarching themes of A Song of Ice and Fire.
1. Meereen's Quagmire
Meereen’s Quagmire represents a pivotal and protracted challenge in Daenerys Targaryen’s trajectory within the A Song of Ice and Fire book series, fundamentally shaping “what happened to daenerys in the books”. It signifies her attempt to impose Westerosi justice and governance upon a society with deeply ingrained traditions, customs, and power structures, specifically the institution of slavery. Her decision to abolish slavery in Meereen, while morally justifiable, creates unforeseen and escalating consequences. The city’s economy collapses, social unrest increases, and various factions, such as the Sons of the Harpy, emerge to destabilize her rule through violence and terror. This quagmire directly impacts her decision-making, forcing her to compromise her ideals and engage in political maneuvering to maintain control, demonstrating the practical difficulties of implementing sweeping social change in a complex environment.
One illustration of this can be seen in Daenerys’s controversial decision to marry Hizdahr zo Loraq, a Meereenese nobleman, in an attempt to pacify the city’s dissenting voices and broker a peace. This action, born out of the pressures of Meereen’s volatile political landscape, illustrates the extent to which the quagmire dictates her choices. This ultimately backfires with the poisoning attempt on Daenerys and the reopening of the fighting pits. Additionally, her focus on Meereen delays her intended conquest of Westeros, significantly altering the overall narrative timeline and trajectory of her ambition to reclaim the Iron Throne. The quagmire also influences her relationships with key advisors. The differing opinions among Barristan Selmy, Jorah Mormont, and eventually Tyrion Lannister, regarding how to handle Meereen’s problems create internal conflict and force Daenerys to weigh disparate strategies, each with its own potential ramifications.
In summary, “Meereen’s Quagmire” is not merely a setting but a crucible that forges Daenerys’s character and alters the course of events. It is a significant component of “what happened to daenerys in the books”, demonstrating the complexities of leadership, the unintended consequences of radical change, and the moral ambiguities inherent in wielding power. The challenges faced in Meereen force her to confront her own limitations and question her ideals, leading to a more nuanced and conflicted portrayal compared to simplified narratives. This complexity is crucial for understanding Daenerys’s overall arc and the broader themes of power and justice within the series.
2. Drogon's Flight
Drogon’s Flight from the fighting pits of Meereen is a watershed moment, indelibly shaping “what happened to daenerys in the books.” This event marks a turning point, precipitating a series of consequences that significantly alter Daenerys Targaryen’s trajectory. His departure is not merely a physical escape but a catalyst for her own transformation and the unraveling of her carefully constructed plans.
- Loss of Control
Drogon’s uncontrollable nature and fiery escape directly exemplify Daenerys’s diminishing control over her dragons and, by extension, her own destiny. The inability to command Drogon, her largest and most formidable dragon, underscores the limitations of her power and the unpredictable nature of the forces she wields. This instance highlights the inherent dangers in wielding instruments of immense power, especially when those instruments possess wills of their own. It implies a significant shift in the balance of power, emphasizing that Daenerys is not entirely the master of her dragons, a pivotal element in the broader scope of events.
- Symbolic Representation of Freedom
Drogon’s flight symbolizes Daenerys’s own yearning for freedom from the constraints of leadership and the burdens of ruling. His soaring escape mirrors her inner desire to break free from the political and social entanglements that bind her in Meereen. This element represents a subconscious rebellion against the responsibilities she has taken on. It suggests a growing dissatisfaction with the compromises she has made and a renewed call to embrace her Targaryen heritage, characterized by fire and blood.
- Disruption of Political Order
The dragon’s escape creates significant political turmoil in Meereen. It emboldens her enemies and destabilizes the fragile peace she had attempted to forge. It signals a failure in her efforts to control and integrate Meereenese society under her rule. The consequences include increased violence, renewed attempts to overthrow her, and the erosion of her authority. This event contributes directly to the escalating chaos, further entrenching Daenerys in the complex and dangerous political landscape of Essos.
- Forced Journey into the Dothraki Sea
Drogon’s flight ultimately forces Daenerys to leave Meereen and venture into the Dothraki Sea after he is shot down by a spear from a Meereenese. This unplanned journey dramatically alters her plans. It removes her from the familiar, albeit turbulent, environment of Meereen and thrusts her into an unknown territory where she must confront new challenges and alliances. This detour significantly delays her intended invasion of Westeros, redirecting the narrative and adding further uncertainty to her quest for the Iron Throne. She is found by Khal Jhaqo.
The facets of Drogon’s flight converge to paint a portrait of Daenerys’s shifting circumstances. Each aspect reinforces how this single event ripples through her narrative, altering the trajectory of her story. Drogon’s flight becomes a critical turning point that informs the broader context of what happened to her. This moment highlights her loss of control, embodies her yearning for liberation, destabilizes her political landscape, and forces a transformative journey that will reshape her understanding of power and her ultimate destiny.
3. Dothraki Encounter
The Dothraki Encounter, occurring at the conclusion of A Dance with Dragons, marks a crucial juncture in “what happened to daenerys in the books.” It represents a return to her roots and simultaneously presents a formidable challenge, altering her strategic trajectory and forcing her to confront her identity.
- Reversal of Power Dynamic
The encounter immediately reverses Daenerys’s established power dynamic. Previously a Khaleesi, she is now essentially a captive, stripped of her authority and forced to navigate the complex social structures of the Dothraki. This situation directly contrasts with her reign in Meereen and her aspirations for the Iron Throne. Her status changes from a leader to an outsider, demanding a reassessment of her leadership style and strategic goals. The immediate impact is loss of control.
- Forced Re-evaluation of Identity
Being thrust back into the Dothraki culture compels Daenerys to re-evaluate her identity. Her experiences in Westeros and Essos have shaped her, but the Dothraki see her primarily as the widow of Khal Drogo, a role with specific expectations and limitations. This encounter forces her to reconcile her identity as a Targaryen heir, a queen, and a Khaleesi, potentially leading to internal conflict and a redefinition of her ultimate purpose.
- Strategic Reset
The Dothraki Encounter necessitates a complete strategic reset. Her plans to conquer Westeros are indefinitely postponed, and she must now focus on survival and re-establishing a power base within the Dothraki society. This development introduces significant uncertainty into the narrative, as it remains unclear how she will navigate this new environment and whether she can leverage the Dothraki to further her ambitions. A strategic reset means her plans are off course.
- Potential for Alliance or Conflict
The encounter presents both the potential for alliance and the threat of conflict. Daenerys could attempt to unite the Dothraki under her banner, wielding their strength for her own purposes. Alternatively, she could face resistance and hostility from the khalasars, leading to a power struggle that could jeopardize her life and her overall mission. The nature of her relationship with the Dothraki will be pivotal in determining her future course.
In conclusion, the Dothraki Encounter is not merely an event but a catalyst for profound change in Daenerys’s narrative. The reversal of power, the forced re-evaluation of identity, the strategic reset, and the potential for alliance or conflict, are significant components of “what happened to daenerys in the books.” This encounter positions Daenerys at a crossroads, forcing her to adapt, evolve, and redefine her path toward the Iron Throne.
4. Barristan's Counsel
Barristan Selmy served as a crucial advisor to Daenerys Targaryen, and his counsel significantly influenced “what happened to daenerys in the books”. His wisdom, experience, and unwavering loyalty shaped her decisions, particularly in the complex political landscape of Meereen. Analyzing his influence offers insight into the factors that guided Daenerys and the consequences that followed.
- Moral Compass
Barristan provided a moral compass for Daenerys, consistently advocating for justice, honor, and the well-being of the common people. He tempered her more impulsive tendencies, urging her to consider the long-term consequences of her actions. This influence is evident in her attempts to establish a fair and just society in Meereen, though those efforts often met with resistance and unintended consequences. His role as a moral guide highlights the internal struggles Daenerys faced between her desire for power and her commitment to ethical governance.
- Historical Perspective
Having served in the Kingsguard under previous Targaryen rulers, Barristan offered Daenerys invaluable historical perspective on her family’s reign and the events that led to their downfall. He shared insights into the strengths and weaknesses of past Targaryen monarchs, helping her avoid repeating their mistakes. This historical context informed her understanding of the Iron Throne and the challenges of ruling Westeros, providing her with a deeper appreciation for the complexities of her heritage.
- Military Strategy
Barristan’s extensive military experience proved invaluable in advising Daenerys on matters of warfare and strategy. He helped her train her Unsullied army, plan her military campaigns, and navigate the treacherous politics of Essos. His expertise contributed to her initial successes in conquering cities and establishing her power base. His knowledge of military tactics and logistics was critical to her early victories and her ability to maintain control over her growing domain.
- Restraint and Diplomacy
Perhaps most significantly, Barristan often counseled Daenerys to exercise restraint and diplomacy in her dealings with both allies and enemies. He urged her to consider peaceful solutions whenever possible and to avoid unnecessary bloodshed. His emphasis on diplomacy and strategic alliances tempered her more aggressive impulses, leading her to pursue negotiations and compromises that ultimately shaped the political landscape of Essos. His death at the hands of the Sons of the Harpy creates a leadership vacuum and demonstrates the dangers Daenerys faces.
Barristan’s counsel was integral to Daenerys’s development as a ruler. His moral guidance, historical perspective, military strategy, and advocacy for restraint and diplomacy significantly influenced the course of events in Meereen and beyond. His presence shaped her decisions and contributed to the complex and often contradictory nature of her reign. The interplay between his counsel and her own ambitions defines a critical aspect of “what happened to daenerys in the books,” demonstrating the profound impact of wise counsel on the trajectory of power.
5. Tyrion's Arrival
The arrival of Tyrion Lannister in Daenerys Targaryen’s orbit represents a pivotal juncture in the A Song of Ice and Fire series, demonstrably influencing “what happened to daenerys in the books.” His presence shifts the political landscape surrounding the queen, introducing new strategies, alliances, and potential pitfalls. Prior to his arrival, Daenerys operated largely on intuition, counsel from figures like Barristan Selmy, and advisors of varying loyalty. Tyrion’s arrival provides a calculating intellect with a deep understanding of Westerosi politics, adding a layer of sophistication and intrigue to Daenerys’s court that was previously absent. The strategic landscape is irrevocably altered.
Tyrion’s counsel is not simply a reiteration of existing strategies; his understanding of Westerosi power dynamics and his own history of political maneuvering provide Daenerys with a unique perspective. For example, his advice regarding potential alliances in Westeros, the dangers of relying solely on dragons, and the nuances of dealing with powerful figures like Cersei Lannister significantly shapes Daenerys’s future plans. Moreover, Tyrion’s presence affects Daenerys’s perception of Westeros, offering her a more realistic view than idealistic notions. Consider his insights into the motivations of various houses, the historical context of conflicts, and the inherent challenges of ruling a divided kingdom. These elements are critical in shaping Daenerys’s understanding of what she will face when she finally sets foot on Westerosi soil.
In summary, Tyrion Lannister’s arrival is not a mere happenstance; it is a deliberate shift in Daenerys’s trajectory, altering the course of “what happened to daenerys in the books.” His intellect, political acumen, and Westerosi knowledge infuse her court with a new dimension of strategic complexity. The challenges now faced by Daenerys are compounded by the advice she receives, adding layers of risk and reward. His role sets the stage for potentially significant narrative shifts and fundamentally reshapes the direction of Daenerys’s quest for the Iron Throne. Tyrion’s addition to the storyline affects her decision and also affects her overall journey.
6. Hizdahr's Marriage
Daenerys Targaryen’s marriage to Hizdahr zo Loraq is a central, defining event in A Dance with Dragons. The strategic alliance, forced by the quagmire in Meereen, significantly altered her trajectory. This decision and its subsequent fallout are crucial to understanding what ultimately “what happened to Daenerys in the books”.
- Political Compromise
The marriage represents a profound political compromise for Daenerys. Driven by the need to stabilize Meereen, she agrees to marry a member of the local nobility, despite her personal reservations and the inherent conflicts of interest. This decision signals a departure from her initial ideals of justice and liberation. It sets a precedent for pragmatism over principle, a theme that continues to shape her actions throughout the book series. The marriage becomes a symbol of her struggles to reconcile her Westerosi values with the realities of Essos.
- Escalation of Intrigue
The alliance with Hizdahr does not bring stability. Instead, it exacerbates the political intrigue within Meereen. Hizdahr’s connections to the Sons of the Harpy, though never definitively proven, cast suspicion on his motives and fuel the growing unrest. The attempted poisoning of Daenerys at the reopening of Daznak’s Pit further intensifies the atmosphere of distrust and uncertainty. Daenerys finds herself caught in a web of deception, unsure of who to trust, and struggling to maintain control in a city spiraling toward chaos.
- Erosion of Authority
The marriage to Hizdahr, intended to bolster Daenerys’s authority, ultimately contributes to its erosion. Many of her advisors and loyal followers, including Barristan Selmy and Grey Worm, disapprove of the alliance, viewing it as a betrayal of her principles. The marriage also alienates a segment of the Meereenese population who see Hizdahr as a symbol of the old regime. Daenerys’s decision to marry him creates divisions within her own ranks, undermining her ability to effectively govern and further destabilizing the city.
- Flight on Drogon
The chaos surrounding Daznak’s Pit, triggered by the attempted poisoning and the escalating violence, leads directly to Daenerys’s flight on Drogon. Overwhelmed by the events and fearing for her life, she is forced to abandon Meereen, leaving the city in a state of near anarchy. This abrupt departure marks a turning point in her story, removing her from the immediate political landscape and setting the stage for her subsequent encounter with the Dothraki. Her abdication of responsibility in Meereen, prompted by the turmoil surrounding her marriage, dramatically alters her course.
These facets illuminate the profound impact of Hizdahr’s Marriage on Daenerys’s arc. The alliance, meant to stabilize her rule, instead fuels political intrigue, erodes her authority, and culminates in her dramatic flight on Drogon. It stands as a pivotal event that defines “what happened to Daenerys in the books,” showcasing the complexities of power, the consequences of compromise, and the volatile nature of her journey.
7. Green Grass
The consumption of green grass by Daenerys Targaryen, at the close of A Dance with Dragons, represents a pivotal, symbolic moment profoundly connected to “what happened to daenerys in the books”. Following her flight from Meereen atop Drogon, she finds herself in the Dothraki Sea, weak and vulnerable. The act of eating green grass is not merely a sign of her desperation or hunger; it signifies a descent into a primal state, a stripping away of her royal identity and a return to a more basic existence. This act marks a nadir in her power and control, in stark contrast to her earlier conquests and aspirations for the Iron Throne.
This instance is significant for several reasons. First, it underscores the physical toll her struggles have taken. Daenerys, accustomed to command and luxury, is reduced to foraging for sustenance like any commoner or animal. This highlights the precariousness of her position and the raw, unforgiving nature of the world she inhabits. Second, the act may symbolize a connection to her former husband, Khal Drogo, and the Dothraki way of life. Ingesting something so intrinsically linked to the Dothraki culture subtly foreshadows her impending encounter with a new Khalasar and the potential for a renewed connection to her past. It marks a potential shift in identity, either toward the woman she was or toward a more primal existence. Lastly, the desperation to eat implies that she has finally lost control of the people and places she had once ruled. The Queen is at her lowest point during the events after the fighting pit.
Ultimately, Daenerys eating the green grass is a powerful symbol of vulnerability and transition. It encapsulates the consequences of her decisions in Meereen, her loss of control, and her uncertain future. Understanding this moment is vital to grasping the complexities of her character arc and the overall themes of power, survival, and identity within the A Song of Ice and Fire series, contributing significantly to the comprehensive understanding of what happened to her at the end of A Dance with Dragons.
Frequently Asked Questions About Daenerys Targaryen’s Book Arc
The following questions address common points of inquiry regarding Daenerys Targaryen’s storyline in George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire book series. Each answer aims to clarify key events and character developments.
Question 1: How does Daenerys’s rule in Meereen differ between the books and the television series?
In the books, Daenerys’s struggles in Meereen are significantly more protracted and complex. The books emphasize the intricacies of governing a foreign city with deeply rooted cultural differences. In contrast, the television series condenses this period, streamlining the challenges she faces and diminishing the political nuances involved. The book portrays a more arduous and less successful attempt at governance.
Question 2: What is the significance of Quentyn Martell’s role in Daenerys’s storyline within the books?
Quentyn Martell’s mission to Meereen, and his subsequent fate, is a significant plot element absent from the television adaptation. He arrives seeking to marry Daenerys and secure a Targaryen alliance with Dorne. His failed attempt to tame one of her dragons and his resulting death have significant repercussions, impacting Daenerys’s relationships and the political landscape. His presence adds another layer of complexity to her rule and illustrates the dangers surrounding her claim to power.
Question 3: How does Daenerys’s relationship with her dragons evolve differently in the books compared to the television show?
In the book series, the bond between Daenerys and her dragons is portrayed as less easily controlled and more intrinsically linked to her own emotional state. The dragons exhibit a level of independence and unpredictability that is less pronounced in the television adaptation. The books highlight the dangers inherent in wielding such powerful creatures and the difficulty in fully controlling their destructive potential.
Question 4: What is the ending of Daenerys’s storyline in the most recently published book, and how does it differ from the television series?
At the end of A Dance with Dragons, Daenerys is not yet in Westeros. Following her flight from Meereen on Drogon, she encounters a Khalasar of Dothraki warriors. Her future and intentions remain ambiguous, a stark contrast to the advanced stage of her Westerosi campaign depicted in the television series at a comparable narrative point. The ending in the books leaves her fate uncertain.
Question 5: What role does Barristan Selmy play in Daenerys’s storyline in the books, and how does it compare to the television adaptation?
Barristan Selmy serves as a vital advisor to Daenerys in the book series, providing counsel based on his experience and historical knowledge. Unlike the television adaptation, where he dies relatively early, Barristan’s influence extends much further in the books, shaping her decisions and guiding her actions in Meereen. His death in the books marks a significant loss and a turning point in her rule.
Question 6: How does the absence of Aegon Targaryen (Young Griff) in the television series affect Daenerys’s story?
The omission of Aegon Targaryen, also known as Young Griff, from the television adaptation significantly simplifies Daenerys’s political landscape. In the books, Aegon’s claim to the Iron Throne presents a direct challenge to Daenerys, creating a complex web of alliances, betrayals, and power struggles that are absent in the simplified television narrative. His existence adds a layer of uncertainty and competition to her quest for the throne.
These questions and answers are intended to provide a concise overview of Daenerys Targaryen’s arc in the books, highlighting key differences from the television adaptation. Further exploration of the text is recommended for a more comprehensive understanding.
The next section will delve into theories surrounding Daenerys’s potential future within the unreleased books of A Song of Ice and Fire.
Conclusion
This examination has dissected the arc of Daenerys Targaryen within the A Song of Ice and Fire book series, providing a detailed account of “what happened to daenerys in the books.” From the complexities of ruling Meereen and the political compromises she undertakes to her perilous encounter with the Dothraki and her symbolic consumption of green grass, the exploration covers the key events shaping her character. It highlights the stark contrasts between her nuanced portrayal in the books and the simplified narrative presented in the television adaptation.
Daenerys’s journey in the books remains unresolved, her ultimate fate hanging in the balance. The challenges she faces, the decisions she makes, and the forces she encounters underscore the series’ broader themes of power, morality, and the unpredictable nature of destiny. As readers await the continuation of her story, the analysis of her past actions offers valuable insights into the potential future and the enduring significance of her quest for the Iron Throne.
