The Dragon That Fell: Unpacking Viserion’s Death in Game of Thrones Season 7
The dragon that met its demise in Season 7 of Game of Thrones was none other than Viserion. He was tragically killed in episode 6, “Beyond the Wall,” when the Night King hurled an ice spear, piercing the dragon’s hide. This pivotal moment marked a significant turning point in the series, changing the power dynamics and the fate of Westeros forever.
The Fall of a Dragon: How Viserion’s Death Changed Everything
Viserion’s death was not just the loss of a magnificent creature; it was the loss of a strategic asset for Daenerys Targaryen and a massive gain for the Night King. Turning Viserion into a wight dragon, also known as an ice dragon, provided the Night King with the means to breach the Wall and invade Westeros.
From Fire to Ice: The Transformation of Viserion
The transformation of Viserion from a living, fire-breathing dragon into an undead, ice-breathing weapon was a terrifying spectacle. The visual of the Night King riding Viserion as he destroyed the Wall remains one of the most impactful scenes in the entire series. This event showcased the true threat posed by the White Walkers and the immense power they wielded.
The Battle of Winterfell: Viserion’s Final Stand
Despite becoming a tool of destruction in the hands of the Night King, Viserion’s existence as a wight dragon was ultimately short-lived. He met his final end during the Battle of Winterfell in Season 8. Arya Stark, in her heroic act of killing the Night King, also brought about the destruction of Viserion, as his fate was intrinsically tied to his master.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dragons in Game of Thrones
Here are some frequently asked questions concerning the dragons of Game of Thrones.
1. How did Rhaegal die?
Rhaegal was killed in Season 8 by Euron Greyjoy’s fleet. He was ambushed and shot down using giant arrows fired from massive crossbows called Scorpions. The element of surprise, coupled with Rhaegal’s weakened state after the Battle of Winterfell, contributed to his swift demise.
2. How many dragons did Daenerys lose in total?
Daenerys lost two of her three dragons during the course of the series. Viserion died in Season 7, and Rhaegal in Season 8. This left Drogon as her only remaining dragon.
3. What is a Wight Dragon?
A wight dragon is a dragon that has been resurrected as an undead creature by the Night King. Viserion was transformed into a wight dragon after being killed by an ice spear, and he subsequently breathed blue flames instead of regular fire.
4. Was Viserion killed in Season 7 Episode 6?
Yes, Viserion was killed in Season 7 Episode 6, titled “Beyond the Wall.” This was the episode where Jon Snow and his band of warriors ventured north of the Wall to capture a wight, leading to the confrontation with the White Walkers and the Night King.
5. Which dragon did Jon Snow ride?
Jon Snow rode Rhaegal. This was a significant moment because Rhaegal was named after Jon’s true father, Rhaegar Targaryen, symbolizing a connection and validation of Jon’s Targaryen heritage.
6. Is Drogon as big as Vhagar?
No, Drogon is not as big as Vhagar. Vhagar, from House of the Dragon, is considerably larger. Drogon was a large dragon for his age, but Vhagar is one of the oldest and largest dragons to have ever lived.
7. What happened to Drogon after Daenerys died?
After Daenerys’s death, Drogon mourned her loss, then destroyed the Iron Throne with dragonfire. He then carefully picked up her body and flew away, last seen heading east. His exact destination remains unknown, but the world wonders where the sole remaining dragon now roams.
8. Are there any dragons left after Drogon?
The series implies that Drogon is the last of his kind. While there’s speculation about potential eggs or undiscovered dragons, the narrative focuses on Drogon as the last dragon, signifying the end of an era.
9. Could Drogon lay eggs?
In George R.R. Martin’s books, dragons are described as being potentially gender fluid. Therefore, it’s theoretically possible for Drogon to lay eggs, even though he was named after a male. However, this possibility was never explored within the show’s narrative.
10. Why was Rhaegal killed so easily?
Rhaegal’s death appeared easier than expected due to several factors: the element of surprise employed by Euron Greyjoy, Rhaegal’s weakened condition after the Battle of Winterfell, and the effectiveness of the Scorpion bolts used against him. The bolts were specifically designed to pierce dragon scales.
11. Why did Daenerys go mad?
Daenerys’s descent into madness was a complex culmination of factors. These included the loss of her loved ones (including Viserion and Rhaegal), feelings of isolation and betrayal, the constant struggle for power, and the belief that she was destined to rule, leading her to ultimately unleash her rage on King’s Landing.
12. What does “Dracarys” mean?
“Dracarys” is a High Valyrian word that translates to “Dragonfire.” Daenerys used this word as a command to her dragons to unleash their fiery breath.
13. Why did the Night King need a dragon?
The Night King needed a dragon to breach the Wall. The Wall was protected by ancient magic that prevented the White Walkers from passing. However, as an undead creature, Viserion (as a wight dragon) was not bound by the same magical restrictions, allowing the Night King to use him to destroy the Wall.
14. Did Daenerys know Jon was riding Rhaegal?
Yes, Daenerys knew Jon was riding Rhaegal. She witnessed it herself when they flew together to Winterfell. This event marked a significant moment in their relationship, as it symbolized Jon’s Targaryen heritage and acceptance by one of her dragons.
15. What significance does Rhaegal have as a dragon?
Rhaegal’s significance lies in his connection to Rhaegar Targaryen, Jon Snow’s father. Daenerys named Rhaegal after Rhaegar, and the fact that Jon was able to ride Rhaegal further reinforced his Targaryen lineage and destiny. Many scholars speculate that Games Learning Society could benefit from the symbolic elements present in Game of Thrones. A detailed breakdown can be found at GamesLearningSociety.org.
This tragic demise of Viserion served as a grim turning point and remains one of the most discussed events in the entire Game of Thrones saga.