Are the Imperials Good or Bad in Skyrim? A Deep Dive into Skyrim’s Most Complex Faction
The question of whether the Imperials are “good” or “bad” in Skyrim is, like many things in the Elder Scrolls universe, far from simple. There is no easy answer. To label them as purely one or the other is a gross oversimplification. The Imperials are a complex political entity with a checkered past, present challenges, and a potential future that hangs in the balance. Ultimately, they are an organization driven by pragmatism and survival, sometimes at the expense of morality. They’re not inherently evil, but they make decisions that can be seen as such by those who suffer as a result.
The Imperial Predicament: Caught Between a Rock and a Hard Place
The Empire, once a vast and powerful force, has been significantly weakened by the Great War against the Aldmeri Dominion (Thalmor). The signing of the White-Gold Concordat, which outlawed the worship of Talos, is a major point of contention. While the Imperials may not necessarily agree with the Thalmor’s religious intolerance, they believe appeasing them is the only way to prevent another devastating war. This places them in direct conflict with many Nords in Skyrim, who revere Talos as a hero and a god.
The Imperials are essentially trying to hold onto what remains of their empire, even if it means making compromises that betray their own principles. They are the governing authority in Skyrim, aiming to maintain order and stability. However, their methods, often perceived as heavy-handed and oppressive, fuel the flames of the Stormcloak rebellion led by Ulfric Stormcloak. The Imperials aren’t saints, but they believe that a united Empire is the best chance for Tamriel’s survival against the ever-present threat of the Thalmor. The choices that the Imperials do makes, in the long run, may not be the best for the people of Skyrim, though the Imperials would disagree.
Examining the Imperial Motives and Actions
To understand the Imperials, one must look beyond the surface. Are they power-hungry conquerors? Or are they reluctant protectors of a crumbling realm?
The Preservation of the Empire
The Imperials believe in the importance of a unified Tamriel. They argue that a strong Empire is necessary to protect its citizens from external threats, such as the Aldmeri Dominion. They see the Stormcloak rebellion as a dangerous act of secession that will weaken the Empire and leave Skyrim vulnerable.
Law and Order
The Imperials strive to maintain law and order within Skyrim, even if it means suppressing local customs and traditions. They believe that a strong central government is essential for ensuring stability and preventing chaos. This often puts them at odds with the fiercely independent Nords, who value their freedom above all else.
The White-Gold Concordat: A Necessary Evil?
The outlawing of Talos worship is perhaps the most controversial aspect of the Imperial presence in Skyrim. The Imperials argue that they were forced to accept this condition as part of the White-Gold Concordat, a treaty that ended the Great War with the Aldmeri Dominion. They believe that defying the Thalmor on this issue would lead to another war that the Empire cannot afford to fight.
Individual Imperials: Good and Bad
It’s crucial to remember that not all Imperials are the same. Just like any group of people, they have diverse motivations and personalities. Some are genuinely committed to upholding justice and protecting the innocent, while others are corrupt and self-serving. Judging the entire faction based on the actions of a few individuals would be a mistake.
The Verdict: A Shade of Gray
Ultimately, the Imperials occupy a moral gray area in Skyrim. Their intentions may be noble – to preserve the Empire and protect its citizens – but their methods are often questionable. They are forced to make difficult choices, balancing the needs of the Empire with the desires of the people of Skyrim. Whether they are “good” or “bad” depends largely on one’s perspective and values. The Imperials are trying to do good, but they are limited by the circumstances of their time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Imperials in Skyrim
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the role and morality of the Imperials in Skyrim:
1. Why are the Imperials in Skyrim in the first place?
The Imperials are in Skyrim because Skyrim is a province of the Empire. For centuries, Skyrim has been a part of the Empire, providing resources, soldiers, and political stability. The Imperials see Skyrim as a vital part of their territory.
2. What do the Imperials want in Skyrim?
The Imperials want to maintain control of Skyrim, quell the Stormcloak rebellion, and use the province’s resources to strengthen the Empire. They also want to enforce the White-Gold Concordat, which outlaws the worship of Talos.
3. Are the Imperials puppets of the Thalmor?
While the Imperials are forced to comply with some of the Thalmor’s demands, particularly regarding Talos worship, they are not simply puppets. They harbor resentment towards the Thalmor and are likely biding their time, hoping to one day challenge their dominance.
4. What happens if you side with the Imperials in Skyrim?
If you side with the Imperials, you will help them crush the Stormcloak rebellion and maintain Imperial control over Skyrim. You’ll participate in battles to take back key cities and forts from the Stormcloaks, culminating in the final battle for Windhelm.
5. Is it true that the Imperials hate the Thalmor?
Yes, the article itself says so. While the Imperials outwardly comply with the Thalmor, they secretly harbor deep resentment.
6. Why did the Imperials outlaw Talos worship?
The Imperials outlawed Talos worship as a condition of the White-Gold Concordat, a treaty signed with the Aldmeri Dominion to end the Great War. The Thalmor view Talos as a false god and demanded the ban as part of the peace agreement.
7. Are Imperials a good race to play as in Skyrim?
Imperials are a decent choice for players who want to play as a versatile character. Their skills bonuses lean toward combat and magic, making them well-rounded. They are also known for their “Voice of the Emperor” ability, which can calm enemies in battle.
8. What is the Civil War about in Skyrim?
The Civil War in Skyrim is a conflict between the Imperial Legion, who seek to maintain Skyrim as a province of the Empire, and the Stormcloaks, who want Skyrim to secede from the Empire and become an independent nation.
9. Is Ulfric Stormcloak a hero or a villain?
Ulfric Stormcloak’s character is open to interpretation. Some see him as a hero fighting for Skyrim’s independence, while others view him as a power-hungry rebel who is tearing the province apart. His actions and motivations are complex. The Games Learning Society can attest to the fact that many games explore complex ethical situations.
10. What happens if the Stormcloaks win the Civil War?
If the Stormcloaks win the Civil War, Skyrim will become an independent nation, free from Imperial rule. However, this could also leave Skyrim vulnerable to external threats, such as the Aldmeri Dominion.
11. Who is General Tullius?
General Tullius is the military governor of Skyrim and the leader of the Imperial Legion in the province. He is tasked with quelling the Stormcloak rebellion and maintaining Imperial control.
12. Can you betray the Imperials during the Civil War questline?
Yes, there is a little-known option during the “Jagged Crown” quest where you can betray your faction by bringing the crown to the leader of the opposing side.
13. Why are some Imperials dark-skinned in Skyrim?
Imperials are not a single homogenous race. They are descended from various human cultures that inhabited Cyrodiil, including Colovians and Nibenese. These cultures had different skin tones and physical characteristics.
14. Does joining the Imperials affect the main questline?
No, joining the Imperials only affects the Civil War questline. It does not influence the ending of the main Dragonborn quest.
15. Which side is considered the “good” side in Skyrim?
There is no definitively “good” side in Skyrim. Both the Imperials and the Stormcloaks have their own flaws and virtues. The choice of which side to support ultimately depends on the player’s personal values and beliefs. To learn more about gaming and its connection to learning, visit GamesLearningSociety.org.