King Rauru: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Zonai King

Rauru is many things: the first King of Hyrule, a sage, a guide to Link, and most importantly, a member of the ancient and powerful Zonai tribe. He embodies wisdom, leadership, and a deep connection to the divine. Appearing as a regal, anthropomorphic goat-like figure with striking golden features and a prominent third eye, Rauru serves as a pivotal character in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, shaping the world of Hyrule and guiding Link on his quest to defeat Ganondorf. He’s a linchpin, connecting the past to the present and revealing the profound significance of the Zonai in Hyrule’s history.

Delving Deeper: Rauru’s Role and Significance

Rauru’s significance extends far beyond his individual character. He represents the legacy of the Zonai, a race whose origins lie among the heavens and who wielded immense power through their Secret Stones. His marriage to Queen Sonia, a Hylian, marks a crucial point in Hyrule’s history, signifying the union of two peoples and the establishment of the kingdom we know and love. The Zonai’s advanced technology and connection to magic are reflected in the architecture and artifacts scattered throughout Hyrule, a testament to their influence and Rauru’s vision.

Furthermore, Rauru’s sacrifice to seal Ganondorf sets the stage for the events of Tears of the Kingdom. His spectral presence guides Link, offering wisdom and granting him the power to navigate the dangers that Ganondorf unleashes upon the land. He is a symbol of hope, a reminder of the enduring power of good, and a critical element in understanding the intricate tapestry of Hyrule’s lore. His very existence raises profound questions about the nature of power, sacrifice, and the cyclical nature of history within the Zelda universe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rauru

Here are some frequently asked questions to further explore the nuances of Rauru’s character and his role in the Zelda universe:

Is Rauru Zelda’s Ancestor?

Yes, Rauru is indeed a distant ancestor of Zelda. He is married to Sonia, a Hylian queen, and together they establish the kingdom of Hyrule. Through their descendants, Zelda inherits the bloodline of both the Zonai and the Hylians, making her a key figure in the ongoing battle against evil.

Is Rauru the same as Ocarina of Time’s Rauru?

While both characters share the name Rauru and have similar roles as sages, they are distinct incarnations of the same archetypal figure. The Zelda universe is known for its cyclical nature, with characters being reborn across different timelines. Thus, while Tears of the Kingdom’s Rauru is not Ocarina of Time’s Rauru in a literal sense, they represent a recurring force for good. This is similar to other characters in the Zelda games.

Does Rauru become a dragon?

No, Rauru does not become a dragon. The text explicitly states that it was forbidden for a Zonai to do so, and there were significant risks involved, including the potential destruction of his kingdom.

Is Rauru Zelda’s Father?

No, Rauru is not Zelda’s father. The speculation that Rauru/Kaepora Gaebora from Ocarina of Time is a resurrected version of Gaebora, who was Zelda’s father, is just that: speculation. It is not confirmed in the game lore and stems from observations of character similarities.

Why is Rauru a Zonai?

Rauru is a Zonai because it’s integral to his role and the story of Tears of the Kingdom. The Zonai are depicted as an ancient, advanced civilization with a connection to the gods and immense magical power, particularly through their Secret Stones. Rauru’s Zonai heritage explains his abilities, his wisdom, and his understanding of the forces at play in Hyrule.

Was Rauru the last Zonai?

Not quite. While Ganondorf claims that the Zonai “no longer grace this world with their presence,” Rauru and Mineru are the only two Zonai that players encounter directly in Tears of the Kingdom. Their fate and the disappearance of the rest of the Zonai remain a significant mystery.

Is Zelda related to Rauru and Sonia?

Yes, in Tears of the Kingdom, it is specified that Zelda is a relative of Rauru and Sonia. This familial connection underscores Zelda’s inherent role as a protector of Hyrule and a wielder of sacred power.

What happened to Rauru’s body?

After sealing Ganondorf away, Rauru’s power gradually diminished, leading to his “dissolving away.” This sacrifice is a testament to his dedication to Hyrule and his commitment to ensuring Ganondorf’s defeat, even at the cost of his own existence.

Are there black Hylians?

Hylians typically have Caucasian features with pale skin and various eye and hair colors. However, the article mentions that some dark-skinned Hylians exist. This diversity, though not prominently featured, acknowledges the presence of different ethnicities within the Hylian population.

Why does Rauru have a third eye?

Rauru’s third eye is a symbol of his immense magical power and his connection to the divine. It opens when he uses powerful magic, such as when he seals Ganondorf away. It’s a visual representation of his heightened perception and spiritual abilities.

Is Rauru in Majora’s Mask?

While the character Kaepora Gaebora appears in Majora’s Mask, the connection to Rauru is based on the theory that Kaepora Gaebora is an incarnation of Rauru. Therefore, there isn’t a direct appearance of Rauru in Majora’s Mask, but a potential alternate form.

Was Rauru before Skyward Sword?

The timeline is a complex and debated topic. The article suggests that Rauru’s reign takes place during the Era of Prosperity, long after the events of Skyward Sword. This places the Zonai civilization and the founding of Hyrule relatively late in the overall timeline.

Did Rauru build the shrines?

Yes, the stone tablets quest reveals that Rauru and Sonia built the shrines specifically to seal away the monsters that plagued the land. This was done before Zelda was sent back in time, making the shrines an integral part of their strategy to protect Hyrule.

Is Ganon actually a Gerudo?

Yes, Ganondorf is the king and only male member of the Gerudo tribe, a race predominantly composed of female warriors. This unique origin contributes to his character and the cyclical nature of the conflict in Hyrule, with the Gerudo often facing prejudice because of Ganondorf’s actions.

Was Rauru the ancient hero?

The Ancient Hero is believed to be a Zonai based on their physical similarities with Rauru. This theory suggests a deeper connection between the ancient hero and the Zonai civilization, further emphasizing their influence on Hyrule’s history.

The Zelda universe is incredibly complex and constantly evolving. GamesLearningSociety.org provides resources and discussions on topics such as these and how video games affect learning. Visit the Games Learning Society website to learn more about video games.