The Dragon God of Skyrim: Unraveling the Mysteries of Akatosh and Alduin
The Dragon God in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is a complex figure with two primary aspects: Akatosh and Alduin. Akatosh, the Dragon God of Time, is the chief deity of the Nine Divines and represents endurance, invincibility, and everlasting legitimacy. Alduin, on the other hand, is the World Eater, the harbinger of the apocalypse, and a rogue aspect of Akatosh himself. Understanding their intertwined nature is key to grasping the central conflict and lore of Skyrim.
The Dual Nature of the Dragon God
Akatosh and Alduin are not entirely separate entities, but rather different manifestations of the same primal force. Akatosh represents the benevolent aspect of the Dragon God, responsible for the creation of dragons and Dragonborn. Alduin, however, represents the destructive side, destined to consume the world and bring about its end so that it can be reborn. The events of Skyrim hinge on this conflict and the Dragonborn’s role in maintaining the balance.
Akatosh: Chief of the Divines
Akatosh’s Role in Creation
Akatosh is credited with establishing the stability of time and is considered the first of the Aedra to form in the Dawn Era. He is revered throughout Tamriel, particularly in Cyrodiil, as the patron of emperors and empires. The Amulet of Kings, a powerful artifact linked to Akatosh, is central to maintaining the barriers between Mundus and Oblivion.
The Dragonborn and Akatosh
Dragonborn are individuals with the soul of a dragon, a fragment of Akatosh himself. This gives them the ability to learn and use dragon shouts, powerful vocalizations in the dragon language. The Dragonborn’s destiny is often tied to pivotal events, such as the defeat of Alduin in Skyrim.
Alduin: The World Eater
Alduin’s Rebellion
Alduin, whose name translates to “Destroyer Devourer Master”, deviated from his intended role in the cosmic cycle. Instead of merely overseeing the end of one era to make way for the next, he sought to rule over the world, enslaving mankind and establishing a tyrannical dragon cult.
The Ancient Nords and Alduin’s Defeat
The ancient Nords, using the power of the Thuum (the Voice), were able to wound Alduin and cast him forward in time. This event is recorded in the Elder Scrolls and prophesizes his return. Alduin’s return sets the stage for the Dragonborn to fulfill their destiny and ultimately defeat him (though whether or not he is truly destroyed is a matter of debate among scholars).
The Dragon War and Dragon Priests
Alduin’s Servants
During his reign, Alduin commanded a vast army of dragons and their human servants, the Dragon Priests. These priests were granted immense power in exchange for their servitude and enforced Alduin’s will upon the populace.
Dragon Priest Masks
The Dragon Priests wore unique masks that amplified their magical abilities and symbolized their allegiance to Alduin. These masks are sought after by collectors and hold significant power, making them valuable artifacts.
The Imperial Cult and the Divines
The Nine Divines
The Imperial Cult of Cyrodiil recognizes Akatosh as the chief deity of the Nine Divines. The other Divines include Arkay (god of the cycle of birth and death), Dibella (goddess of beauty), Julianos (god of wisdom and logic), Kynareth (goddess of air and nature), Mara (goddess of love and compassion), Stendarr (god of justice and mercy), Talos (god of war and governance), and Zenithar (god of commerce and labor).
The Ban on Talos Worship
The ban on Talos worship is a significant political issue in Skyrim. The Thalmor, a powerful faction of High Elves, enforced this ban as part of their agenda to weaken the Empire and assert their dominance.
Understanding the Lore
The story of the Dragon God in Skyrim is deeply intertwined with the history and mythology of the Elder Scrolls universe. Delving into the lore surrounding Akatosh and Alduin provides a rich and rewarding gaming experience, prompting players to consider the deeper philosophical and theological implications of their choices. To delve even deeper into game-based learning theories and practices, visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Akatosh good or evil?
Akatosh, in his purest form, represents order, time, and legitimacy, and is generally considered benevolent. However, his aspect as Alduin embodies destruction and tyranny. Whether Akatosh is ultimately good or evil is a matter of perspective and theological debate within the Elder Scrolls universe.
2. What happens if you don’t defeat Alduin?
If the Dragonborn fails to defeat Alduin, he continues to consume the souls of the dead in Sovngarde, growing in power and potentially ushering in the end of the world. The natural cycle of destruction and rebirth would be disrupted, with Alduin ruling indefinitely.
3. How do you become Dragonborn?
Dragonborn are born with the soul of a dragon, a fragment of Akatosh. This is a hereditary trait, though it can also be bestowed by divine intervention, as implied in some sources.
4. Can dragons be killed permanently?
While dragons can be defeated, their souls are immortal. When a dragon is killed, its soul returns to Akatosh, or potentially to Alduin, depending on the dragon’s allegiance. This suggests that dragons can be resurrected or reborn.
5. What is the Dragonrend shout?
Dragonrend is a unique shout developed by the ancient Nords specifically to combat dragons. It forces dragons to land, disrupting their ability to fly and making them vulnerable to attack.
6. Why are dragons returning to Skyrim?
Alduin’s return triggers the resurrection of dragons across Skyrim. He revives them from their ancient burial sites, restoring their power and commanding them to serve his will.
7. What is Sovngarde?
Sovngarde is the afterlife for worthy Nord warriors, a glorious hall where they feast and prepare for the final battle at the end of time. Alduin’s presence in Sovngarde disrupts this peaceful existence, as he devours the souls of the dead.
8. Who are the Greybeards?
The Greybeards are a reclusive order of monks who reside at High Hrothgar and are masters of the Thuum. They guide the Dragonborn in learning and mastering their dragon shouts, helping them prepare to face Alduin.
9. What is the meaning of Akatosh’s symbol?
Akatosh’s symbol is often depicted as a dragon, symbolizing his dominion over time and his connection to the draconic race. The symbol can also represent the empire, linking the emperor’s legitimacy to Akatosh’s divine authority.
10. What role does Martin Septim play in the Dragon God’s story?
Martin Septim, the last of the Septim emperors, plays a crucial role in the Oblivion Crisis. He sacrifices himself to restore the barriers between Mundus and Oblivion, invoking the power of Akatosh and transforming into a dragon avatar to banish Mehrunes Dagon.
11. Are there different types of dragons in Skyrim?
Yes, there are various types of dragons in Skyrim, each with unique abilities and strengths. These include Frost Dragons, Fire Dragons, Blood Dragons, Elder Dragons, and Ancient Dragons, among others. Each type presents a different challenge to the Dragonborn.
12. What is the relationship between the Aedra and Daedra?
The Aedra (including Akatosh) are the deities who participated in the creation of Mundus, sacrificing a portion of their power in the process. The Daedra are deities who did not participate and retain their full power, often ruling over realms of Oblivion.
13. Why do the Thalmor dislike Talos?
The Thalmor dislike Talos (formerly Tiber Septim) because he was a human who ascended to godhood. They view this as a violation of the natural order and a threat to their own racial superiority, as they believe only elves are fit to rule.
14. What is the Elder Scroll prophecy about Alduin?
The Elder Scrolls contain prophecies that foretell Alduin’s return and the rise of the Dragonborn to defeat him. These prophecies serve as a guide for the Dragonborn, leading them to uncover the secrets needed to confront the World Eater.
15. Can you become a Dragon Priest in Skyrim?
While you cannot become a Dragon Priest in the traditional sense (a servant of Alduin), you can acquire and wear their masks, gaining their powerful magical abilities. However, this does not change your allegiance or transform you into a true Dragon Priest.