Unraveling the Canon: The Definitive Ending of Skyrim’s Dawnguard DLC
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The question of a canonical ending in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim‘s Dawnguard DLC is a persistent one among fans. The beauty (and occasional frustration) of Skyrim is its open-ended nature, leaving much to the player’s imagination. However, certain elements are more likely to be considered canon than others. The universally accepted canonical facts are that the Last Dragonborn was involved, Auriel’s Bow was recovered, and Lord Harkon met his demise. Beyond these core plot points, the “canon” becomes a blurry landscape of interpretation and deduction. Let’s delve deeper into what is widely accepted, and more importantly, why.
Deconstructing Canon: What We Know and What We Assume
The most straightforward answer is this: the Last Dragonborn defeats Harkon, preventing the permanent blotting out of the sun. The exact path they took to get there, however, is not explicitly defined. Bethesda, the game’s developer, rarely establishes a single, definitive ending for their games, preferring to leave room for future stories and player agency. However, clues are scattered throughout the game and its subsequent lore expansions.
The Weight of Evidence: Leaning Towards the Dawnguard
While player choice is paramount, some evidence points to the Last Dragonborn siding with the Dawnguard. Consider these factors:
- Marketing Materials: The initial marketing campaign for Skyrim, including box art and trailers, prominently featured a Nord male clad in armor, embodying the heroic archetype. While not conclusive, it subtly nudges the player towards a “good guy” role.
- Thematic Resonance: Skyrim often explores themes of heroism, duty, and fighting against overwhelming odds. The Dawnguard, as a band of vampire hunters dedicated to protecting the innocent, fits neatly within this narrative framework. Siding with the Dawnguard allows for a more overtly heroic playthrough, which aligns better with the game’s core themes.
- Serana’s Arc: While Serana remains a follower regardless of your chosen faction, her personal story arc arguably benefits more from a Dawnguard playthrough. If you convince her to cure her vampirism after defeating Harkon, her character development is viewed as being more complete.
It’s important to note that none of these factors definitively prove a Dawnguard allegiance as the canonical one. However, they collectively suggest a stronger narrative pull in that direction.
Canonical Events, Not Choices
The true “canon” likely lies in the events that transpire, rather than the specific choices made to achieve them. Think of it as a framework:
- Harkon’s Defeat: This is the lynchpin. Harkon’s ambition to shroud the sun in eternal darkness is a direct threat to Skyrim, and his defeat is necessary for the game’s world to continue in a relatively stable state.
- Auriel’s Bow’s Recovery: This ancient artifact is vital to both sides, and its recovery is crucial to the questline’s resolution. Regardless of faction, the bow is obtained and used, cementing its place in the established storyline.
- The Tyranny of the Sun Prophecy: This prophecy dies with Harkon. Whether through destruction of the bow, or the simple act of preventing the sun from being blotted out, this specific threat is neutralized.
The exact how – vampire or vampire hunter – is less important than the what. This allows Bethesda to maintain the illusion of choice while still establishing a consistent narrative foundation for future games and expansions.
Conclusion: The Essence of Choice
Ultimately, the “canon” ending of Dawnguard is a blend of implied narrative direction and established events. It’s a testament to Skyrim‘s enduring appeal that fans continue to debate and dissect these choices. The fact that the debate still exists highlights the success of Bethesda’s approach to player agency. The Dawnguard DLC provides a thrilling narrative, rich characters, and memorable moments, regardless of the path you choose.
To further explore the impact of gaming on learning and society, consider visiting the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Dragonborn canonically a vampire?
The article mentions Dragonborn being a vampire, a reptilian shapeshifter, and a werewolf. While the Dragonborn can become these things within the game, there’s no official canon stance on any of them. It’s left entirely up to player choice. The reference is merely highlighting the player’s freedom to explore different character builds and storylines.
2. Are the Skyrim DLCs canon?
Yes, DLCs are generally considered canon in The Elder Scrolls universe. They add to the lore and can be referenced in future installments. The article alludes to Talos’ absence during the Oblivion Crisis as an analogy for why he doesn’t directly intervene now, emphasizing the importance of humanity’s self-reliance.
3. Can I still side with the Dawnguard as a vampire?
Technically, yes, but with significant limitations. The Dawnguard will reject you if you are a vampire. You can temporarily join the Volkihar Clan to progress the story, then cure yourself of vampirism to rejoin the Dawnguard.
4. Did the Dragonborn join the Dawnguard?
The article states that it is more likely that the Last Dragonborn canonically joined the Volkihar Clan rather than the Dawnguard. While this is an interpretation supported by some evidence, it’s not definitive canon. There is no concrete proof either way.
5. What race is the Dragonborn canonically?
The Dragonborn has no set race or gender. Promotional materials often portray the Dragonborn as a male Nord, but this is simply for marketing purposes. The player can choose any race and gender they desire.
6. Are Alduin and the Dragonborn brothers?
The article states that since the Dragonborn has the soul of a dragon, Alduin could technically be the Dragonborn’s brother, but this is subjected to debate as he is also mortal. This is a philosophical interpretation rather than a confirmed fact within the lore. It hinges on the nature of dragon souls and their relationship to Alduin.
7. Can you join the Dawnguard after killing Harkon?
Yes, you can join the Dawnguard after killing Harkon if you are not a vampire. If you are a vampire, you will be approached by Garan Merethi and directed to Castle Volkihar.
8. Is it better to join Dawnguard or vampires?
The article states that joining the Dawnguard is by far the best choice players can make while playing the Dawnguard DLC. This is subjective. The “better” choice depends entirely on your preferred playstyle and narrative preferences. The Dawnguard offers a more traditional “heroic” experience, while the Volkihar Clan provides a darker, more morally ambiguous path.
9. Can you cure Serana?
Yes, it’s possible to cure Serana of her vampirism after finishing the Dawnguard DLC. You can bring Serana to Falion in Morthal to perform the ritual.
10. What is the canon name for Dragonborn?
The article says that Miraak is the canon name for Dragonborn, this is incorrect and the article is confused. Miraak is a different Dragonborn. The Last Dragonborn’s name is never specified and is always chosen by the player. The article refers to “Prisoner” as a placeholder name, which is simply the default title given to the player character at the start of the game.
11. What does the Dragonborn look like in canon?
The article mentions a male Nord wearing a mix of Iron and Studded armor, which is the general face of the Dragonborn. The Last Dragonborn’s appearance is not definitively established in canon. While marketing materials often depict a male Nord in specific armor, this is simply a visual representation for promotional purposes.
12. Do female Dragonborn have breasts?
The article makes a strange reference to changes in Dungeons & Dragons dragonborn designs. This is irrelevant to Skyrim and the Dragonborn character within the game. Female Dragonborn characters have the same physical characteristics as any other female character of their chosen race, including breasts.
13. What type of vampire is Serana?
Serana is a pure-blood Vampire, the daughter of Lord Harkon and Valerica. This is significant because it grants her unique abilities and status within vampire society.
14. Can you get Harkon’s sword if you join the vampires? Can you get Auriel’s bow as a Dawnguard?
Yes, the article states that you will still be able to get Harkon’s sword if you join the vampires and that you can get Auriel’s Bow as a Dawnguard. These items are obtainable regardless of faction choice. The questline converges on these elements regardless of your allegiance.
15. Is Serana frozen after killing Harkon?
The article states that “Serana may stay locked in combat after Harkon dies, making it so dialogue is unavailable. Attack Serana until she goes down (or exit the room and initiate conversation), and she will speak.” This is a known bug within the game, not a canonical event.