Who is the Real Dragonborn? Unraveling the Mysteries of Skyrim’s Chosen
The question of who the “real” Dragonborn is can be surprisingly complex, steeped in lore and often misunderstood within the context of the Elder Scrolls universe, particularly Skyrim. The answer isn’t a simple matter of naming a single individual. Instead, it’s about understanding the nature of the Dragonborn and the unique individuals who have held this title throughout history. Therefore, the real Dragonborn is more a concept encompassing several individuals touched by the divine essence of Akatosh, rather than being exclusively any one character.
The term “Dragonborn” signifies a mortal blessed with the soul of a dragon. This is not a literal transformation into a dragon, but a connection to the very essence of dragons. This grants the individual unique abilities, most notably the power of the Thu’um, the Dragon Voice, allowing them to unleash powerful shouts. To truly understand who the real Dragonborn is, it is imperative to acknowledge multiple individuals who have wielded this power throughout the ages.
The Historical Dragonborn Lineage
Miraak: The First Dragonborn
One of the earliest and most pivotal figures in Dragonborn history is Miraak. He is widely acknowledged as the first Dragonborn to be officially recognized. Living during the Merethic Era, Miraak was a powerful Dragon Priest who served the dragons. This era predates written history and the existence of the current cultures. Unlike later Dragonborn, Miraak initially sided with the dragons. His connection to the Dragon Soul allowed him to gain incredible power. Eventually, his lust for power led him to try and control the dragon souls for his own use. This drew the attention of the Daedric Prince, Hermaeus Mora, who eventually led to Miraak’s demise in the Fourth Era. Miraak’s existence throws a spotlight onto the very nature of being a Dragonborn, highlighting their capacity for both power and corruption.
The Last Dragonborn: The Player Character
The most recent and perhaps the best-known Dragonborn is the Last Dragonborn, the player character in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. This individual’s arrival coincides with the return of the dragon Alduin, and they possess the potential to not only defeat the World-Eater but also to absorb the dragon souls and their power. The “Last Dragonborn” is a title, a designation given because they appear in a time where dragons are returning, and they are the only one to have the innate abilities to fight them. This Dragonborn has the ability to change fate, being the only one able to learn all the dragon shouts and thus, becoming the single most powerful Dragonborn, being able to defeat even Miraak.
The Last Dragonborn is not a specific person, rather a title given to whom the player chooses to embody, making each player experience unique and personal.
Other Notable Dragonborn
While Miraak and the Last Dragonborn are the most prominent, the lore suggests that there have been others throughout history. Individuals like Reman Cyrodiil, Tiber Septim and even Martin Septim are believed to have been Dragonborn, showing the potential that different individuals can obtain the soul of a Dragon, and through it be able to become a powerful and respected leader. While some are more powerful than others, each of these figures has played a significant role in shaping the world of the Elder Scrolls. For instance, Tiber Septim, later known as Talos, is revered as a god in many cultures and a Dragonborn of immense power and importance. Their actions have had a direct impact on the world and its inhabitants.
The Nature of the Dragonborn
The Blessing of Akatosh
The power of the Dragonborn stems from Akatosh, the Dragon God of Time. Akatosh blessed these mortals with the soul of a dragon, granting them the ability to speak the Dragon Language and absorb the souls of defeated dragons. This divine connection is what separates them from ordinary mortals and why they have the power of the Thu’um.
Not a Race, but a Title
It is important to understand that Dragonborn is not a race. Anyone, regardless of their lineage or background can receive the gift of the Dragon Soul. This is why the Dragonborn can be of any playable race in Skyrim. This title transcends ethnicity, making it a universal potentiality for any mortal.
Morality and Choice
The power of the Dragonborn does not guarantee heroism. Their path is dictated by their choices. They are capable of both great good and immense evil. This makes the Dragonborn a complex and compelling figure within the lore.
Conclusion: The “Real” Dragonborn
There is no singular “real” Dragonborn, it is a lineage of powerful individuals touched by the divine. There have been powerful Dragonborn through history, each impacting the world differently and making their mark. Each Dragonborn adds to the rich tapestry of Elder Scrolls lore and the world itself. Whether it is the corrupt Miraak, the great Tiber Septim, or the player-driven Last Dragonborn, they all share the title of Dragonborn and contribute to the rich mythology of the Elder Scrolls universe. Understanding the varied nature of Dragonborns allows one to see past the common misconception that the title belongs to a single individual.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the Dragonborn’s real name?
There isn’t one real name for the Dragonborn as it is a title, not a name. Characters like Miraak have specific names, but the Last Dragonborn is the player character and thus named by the player.
2. Who is the First Dragonborn?
Miraak is generally regarded as the First Dragonborn in the Elder Scrolls lore, living during the Merethic Era.
3. Which God made Dragonborn?
Akatosh, the Dragon God of Time, is believed to be responsible for blessing mortals with the soul of a dragon, making them Dragonborn.
4. Who is the Last Dragonborn?
The Last Dragonborn is the player character in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. They are the protagonist and are crucial in the events unfolding in the game.
5. Who is the strongest Dragonborn?
Based on the lore and the game mechanics, the Last Dragonborn (player character) is generally considered the strongest Dragonborn, due to their capacity to absorb dragon souls and learn all of the Thu’um.
6. Is the Dragonborn a God?
The Dragonborn is not a God, but rather a mortal being with the soul of a dragon and a connection to the divine essence of Akatosh.
7. Are all Dragonborn human?
No, Dragonborn can be of any race. The power is not tied to race, which is why you can play as different races in Skyrim.
8. Is the Dragonborn Jesus?
The Dragonborn is not a direct parallel to Jesus. Instead, the lore suggests they are more akin to an archangel, with a divine connection, but not divine themselves.
9. How are Dragonborn born?
According to lore, Dragonborn are blessed by Akatosh with a fragment of his soul. Some stories suggest they originate from dragon eggs created by powerful dragons, but the most common accepted mythos is that Dragonborn are blessed with dragon souls at birth by Akatosh.
10. Are there female Dragonborn?
Yes, the Dragonborn can be male or female. Gender is not a factor in the selection of those blessed by Akatosh.
11. Does the Dragonborn age?
The Dragonborn ages at the same rate as their race. Being Dragonborn does not grant immortality or extended life.
12. Who killed Miraak?
Hermaeus Mora, the Daedric Prince of knowledge and fate, kills Miraak by impaling him with a tentacle in his realm, as he no longer needed Miraak’s services.
13. Is Miraak a true Dragonborn?
Yes, Miraak is considered a true Dragonborn and the first known, with his abilities derived from the same source as others.
14. Is Ulfric a Dragonborn?
No, Ulfric Stormcloak is not a Dragonborn. He is a skilled warrior with some knowledge of the Thu’um, but lacks the Dragon Soul.
15. Do Dragonborn worship gods?
While they possess a divine connection to Akatosh, they do not follow their traditional dragon gods but tend to follow the religion of their chosen race.