Does the Dragonborn Achieve Immortality? Unraveling the Fate of Skyrim’s Hero

No, the Dragonborn in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim does not inherently become immortal simply by virtue of being Dragonborn. The game does not bestow immortality upon the player character, and there’s no in-game mechanism or lore-based evidence to suggest that Dragonborn automatically gain eternal life. A Dragonborn’s lifespan is primarily determined by their race, following the natural lifespans of Nords, Elves, Khajiit, or Argonians. However, their unique dragon soul and experiences open possibilities that could arguably extend beyond natural life.

Unpacking Dragonborn Destiny: Lifespan, Soul, and Potential

The question of Dragonborn immortality is complex and nuanced. While not immortal in the traditional sense, there are factors to consider:

• Racial Lifespan: A Nord Dragonborn would likely live around 80 years, while an Altmer Dragonborn could potentially live for several centuries.

• Dragon Soul: Dragonborn possess the soul of a dragon in a mortal body. Upon death, that soul is destined to return to Akatosh, the Dragon God of Time. This is distinct from the fate of ordinary mortals, suggesting a different kind of afterlife or existence.

• Apotheosis Potential: Although rare, some Dragonborn, like Talos (formerly Tiber Septim), have achieved apotheosis, becoming deities. While apotheosis doesn’t guarantee immortality before death, it signifies a transformation into a higher plane of existence, effectively transcending mortality.

• Influence of Powerful Artifacts and Magic: The Dragonborn’s adventures often involve powerful artifacts and magical encounters. It’s conceivable (though not explicitly stated) that exposure to these could influence lifespan.

In conclusion, the Last Dragonborn is not immortal, but possesses the soul of a Dragon and thus returns to Akatosh upon death. Further, the potential for achieving apotheosis exists for Dragonborn.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Dragonborn and Immortality

1. How long can the Dragonborn live?

The base lifespan of the Last Dragonborn depends entirely on their race. For example, a Nord Dragonborn might live around 80 years, while an Altmer Dragonborn could live for hundreds of years. There are no intrinsic, race-independent attributes to the Dragonborn that dictates length of life.

2. Does being Dragonborn affect someone’s lifespan?

Being Dragonborn doesn’t automatically grant an extended lifespan. It’s primarily the individual’s race that dictates how long they live. However, the experiences, powers, and potential for apotheosis associated with being Dragonborn could theoretically alter this.

3. Will the Dragonborn become a God?

Not every Dragonborn achieves godhood. While some, like Talos, have ascended to become deities, most Dragonborn remain mortal. The game does not automatically allow ascension for the Dragonborn.

4. What happens to the Dragonborn after death?

Due to their dragon soul, the Dragonborn’s soul, upon death (if it hasn’t already been absorbed by another Dragon or Dragonborn), returns to Akatosh. This is different from the fate of ordinary mortals and suggests a unique spiritual destiny.

5. Is the Last Dragonborn the most powerful Dragonborn?

The Last Dragonborn has the potential to be incredibly powerful. They face and defeat threats that previous Dragonborn never encountered. However, Miraak was also exceptionally strong. Power levels between Dragonborn are subject to debate. The Games Learning Society is a great resource for finding articles on debates such as this, where other fans analyze game statistics.

6. Is the Last Dragonborn a demigod?

The term “demigod” isn’t typically used in the context of Dragonborn in The Elder Scrolls lore.

7. What is the true power of Dragonborn?

The true power of the Dragonborn lies in their ability to absorb dragon souls, learning Dragon Shouts, and harnessing the power of the Thu’um. This ability allows them to wield ancient and potent magic.

8. What God would the Dragonborn worship?

This is entirely up to the player. Akatosh, being the Dragon God of Time and the source of the Dragonborn’s power, is a popular choice.

9. Who is the oldest Dragonborn?

This depends on interpretation. Alessia was the first to be anointed Dragonborn, while Miraak may have been Dragonborn before her, depending on your interpreation of time, and dragon-creation.

10. What race is the Last Dragonborn?

The race of the Last Dragonborn is determined by the player, providing considerable customization to their play-through and back story. They can be any of the playable races in Skyrim (Nord, Breton, Imperial, Redguard, Orc, Altmer, Dunmer, Bosmer, Khajiit, or Argonian).

11. What do dragons think of Dragonborn?

Some dragons, particularly those aligned with Akatosh, may view Dragonborn as distant kin. Hostile dragons, like Alduin, see them as a threat. The relationship can vary wildly based on the dragon’s personality and alignment.

12. Can Dragonborn have wings?

In some Dungeons and Dragons iterations Dragonborn can get wings. However, in Skyrim and The Elder Scrolls there is no indication that they can have wings.

13. Could the Dragonborn be soul trapped?

Yes, the Dragonborn can be soul-trapped. Serana traps the Dragonborn to enter the Soul Cairn. Anything with a soul, theoretically, can be captured in a soul gem if the gem is large enough.

14. Why is the main character the Last Dragonborn?

Prophecy dictates the arrival of the Last Dragonborn to defeat Alduin, the World-Eater. This is the central conflict driving the main questline of Skyrim.

15. Which god created the Dragonborn?

Akatosh, the Dragon God of Time, is responsible for the creation of dragons and Dragonborn. Dragonborn are given a piece of Akatosh’s soul.