Why Are Dragons in Skyrim Evil?
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 dragons in Skyrim aren’t inherently evil in the simplistic sense. Instead, their actions are largely dictated by their nature, which is characterized by an overwhelming sense of superiority, dominance, and a desire to impose their will on the world. Reawakened by Alduin, the World-Eater, many dragons return with a renewed purpose: to reclaim Skyrim and establish their dominion over its inhabitants. This ambition, coupled with their innate arrogance and destructive power, often results in what mortals perceive as evil acts. Their motivations stem from a deep-seated belief in their rightful place as rulers, making their actions less about malevolence and more about asserting what they see as their destiny. It’s a complex situation where power and ancient entitlement fuel behavior perceived as evil by the common people of Skyrim.
The Draconic Mindset
Understanding why dragons act the way they do requires delving into their unique mindset. Dragons are not mere beasts; they are intelligent, immortal beings with a profound connection to time and the Thu’um (the Voice). They see themselves as superior to all other races, viewing mortals as fleeting and insignificant.
Domination and Hierarchy
Their society is built on a strict hierarchy of power and dominance. The stronger a dragon is, the higher its position in the hierarchy. This constant striving for power fuels their aggression and their desire to control territory and resources. They respect strength above all else, and any perceived weakness is an invitation to be exploited. Alduin’s resurrection of the dragons re-established this hierarchy, with him at the apex, demanding obedience and adherence to his plans.
The Dragon Tongue and the Thu’um
The Dragon Tongue is not just a language; it’s a manifestation of their power and understanding of the world. The Thu’um, or Voice, allows them to manipulate reality itself. Dragons see the use of the Thu’um as their birthright, and they are contemptuous of mortals who dare to wield it. This further reinforces their sense of superiority and entitlement. They see themselves as the only ones truly capable of understanding and utilizing the power of the Thu’um.
Reclaiming Skyrim
After centuries of slumber, the dragons awakened to find Skyrim inhabited by mortals. They see this as an usurpation of their ancestral lands. Their goal is not simply to destroy, but to reclaim what they believe is rightfully theirs. This ambition, fueled by their ego and their sense of entitlement, leads them to terrorize the population and destroy settlements.
Alduin’s Influence
Alduin, the World-Eater, plays a crucial role in understanding the dragons’ “evil.” While dragons are naturally inclined towards dominance, Alduin’s influence amplifies their destructive tendencies. He is not simply a dragon; he is the Firstborn of Akatosh, and his purpose is to bring about the end of the world.
The Purpose of Destruction
Alduin’s return signals the beginning of the end times, and the dragons are his instruments of destruction. He uses them to sow chaos and fear, weakening the world in preparation for its consumption. This apocalyptic agenda influences the actions of many dragons, turning them into agents of annihilation. While not all dragons directly serve Alduin, his influence permeates their society, pushing them towards greater aggression and destruction.
The Resurrected Dragons
Alduin resurrects dragons from their ancient burial mounds, imbuing them with his own dark energy. These resurrected dragons are particularly susceptible to his influence and are more likely to follow his destructive path. They are essentially living weapons, unleashed upon Skyrim to fulfill Alduin’s apocalyptic ambitions.
Beyond Good and Evil?
While the actions of the dragons certainly appear evil to the people of Skyrim, some argue that they operate on a different moral plane. They are ancient beings with a different understanding of time, power, and destiny. Their actions are driven by instinct, ego, and a sense of entitlement, rather than a conscious desire to inflict suffering. However, this perspective does little to alleviate the suffering they cause, and their actions remain undeniably destructive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Dragons in Skyrim
Here are some frequently asked questions about dragons in Skyrim, shedding light on their lore, behavior, and place in the game’s narrative:
1. Are all dragons in Skyrim hostile?
Yes, almost all dragons encountered in Skyrim are hostile towards the player. While there are exceptions, such as Paarthurnax, these are rare. The vast majority of dragons view mortals as inferior beings and threats to their dominance.
2. What is the difference between dragons and drakes?
In Skyrim, “dragon” and “drake” are often used interchangeably, but typically, a dragon is the more ancient and powerful being. In some Elder Scrolls lore, drakes are considered immature or lesser dragons, but this distinction is not always clear in Skyrim.
3. Why can the Dragonborn absorb dragon souls?
The Dragonborn possesses the soul of a dragon, which allows them to absorb the souls of slain dragons. This grants them access to the Thu’um and enhances their dragon-like abilities. It’s a unique and powerful gift that makes them the only one capable of permanently defeating dragons.
4. Who is Paarthurnax, and why is he different?
Paarthurnax is a dragon who chose a different path. He was once a lieutenant of Alduin but later turned against him, teaching mortals the Thu’um and helping them defeat Alduin in the past. He seeks to live in harmony with mortals and to control his draconic instincts. He is a powerful and enigmatic figure, and the player must decide whether to trust him or not.
5. What are Dragon Priests, and how are they connected to dragons?
Dragon Priests were powerful individuals who served the dragons in ancient times. They wielded immense magical power and acted as intermediaries between the dragons and their mortal followers. After death, they were entombed in draugr crypts throughout Skyrim. Their loyalty to the dragons makes them formidable enemies.
6. Can dragons be tamed or ridden in Skyrim?
While it’s not possible to “tame” a dragon in the conventional sense, the Dragonborn can use the “Bend Will” Dragon Shout to briefly control a dragon and ride it. This ability is only unlocked after completing specific quests in the Dragonborn DLC.
7. What is the Dragon War?
The Dragon War was a conflict between the dragons and the Nords of Skyrim in the Merethic Era. The Nords, initially worshipers of the dragons, rebelled against their tyrannical rule. The war resulted in the near extinction of the dragons and the rise of the Dragon Priests.
8. Are dragons related to Akatosh?
In lore, dragons are considered children of Akatosh, the Dragon God of Time. Alduin, as the Firstborn of Akatosh, is considered the most powerful and significant of all dragons.
9. How do dragons choose where to attack?
Dragons attack settlements for a variety of reasons, including the desire for resources, the assertion of dominance, and simply to cause chaos. Sometimes, their attacks are random, but often they target areas of strategic importance or places where they sense resistance.
10. What are the different types of dragons in Skyrim?
Skyrim features various dragon types, including Frost Dragons, Fire Dragons, Blood Dragons, Elder Dragons, and Ancient Dragons. Each type possesses unique abilities and strengths, making them increasingly challenging to defeat.
11. Can dragons be found anywhere in Skyrim?
Dragons can be found throughout Skyrim, but they are more likely to be encountered near dragon lairs, mountain peaks, and ancient ruins. These locations often hold significance for the dragons or provide strategic advantages.
12. What is the significance of Dragon Mounds?
Dragon Mounds are ancient burial sites where dragons were laid to rest. Alduin resurrects dragons from these mounds, bringing them back to life and unleashing them upon Skyrim. These sites are often guarded by draugr and other undead creatures.
13. How do I effectively fight dragons in Skyrim?
Effectively fighting dragons requires a combination of powerful weapons, defensive armor, and strategic use of Dragon Shouts. Ranged attacks, such as bows and spells, are effective at keeping your distance. Dragonrend shout is extremely useful as it forces dragons to land. Understanding their elemental weaknesses (fire or frost) can also be beneficial.
14. What is the role of the Blades in fighting dragons?
The Blades are an ancient order of dragon slayers who are dedicated to protecting Tamriel from the dragon threat. They play a significant role in the main questline of Skyrim and provide valuable knowledge and support to the Dragonborn.
15. Are there any “good” dragons besides Paarthurnax?
While Paarthurnax is the most prominent “good” dragon, there’s lore suggesting other dragons may have chosen a less malevolent path, though they are not directly encountered in Skyrim. Some dragons may simply be neutral, more focused on survival than domination, but these are exceptions to the rule. The vast majority follow Alduin’s agenda or their own ambitions for power.