George R.R. Martin’s Original Plan for Daenerys Targaryen: A Complex Character Study

The character of Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones has captured the hearts and minds of countless fans. George R.R. Martin, the mastermind behind the epic A Song of Ice and Fire series, had a detailed vision for Daenerys that evolved from a complex character arc to a powerful leader in a realm riddled with moral dilemmas.

Complex Character Arc

With Daenerys Targaryen, George R.R. Martin aimed to create a nuanced and multifaceted character. In interviews, Martin has spoken about Daenerys as a protagonist who begins as a victim of her circumstances but progressively evolves into a formidable force, wrestling with the challenges of asserting her identity and the weight of moral choices. Unlike a simple hero’s journey, Daenerys' saga involves a web of moral ambiguities and ethical quandaries that prompt readers to question her actions and their consequences, particularly as she ascends to power.

Gradual Transformation

Originally, the early drafts of Game of Thrones depicted Daenerys’ growth from a timid and vulnerable exile to a resolute and commanding leader. Her transformation was to be a gradual process fraught with upheavals and tests of her resolve and morality. Exile, the reclaiming of her birthright, and subsequent conflicts were all designed to be integral parts of her character development, showcasing her resilience and leadership qualities.

Ambiguous Morality

One of the most significant aspects of Daenerys Targaryen's character was her ambiguous morality. Martin aimed to portray her as a figure who is not defined by simple good or evil. Her path to power is riddled with moral dilemmas, forcing readers to grapple with the complexity of her actions and their repercussions. The ethical questions she faces, especially as she comes into power, are intended to tug at the emotional and moral fibers of the audience, making her a more compelling and relatable character.

Connection to Themes

Daenerys' story is deeply connected to the broader themes of the series, including power, legacy, and the consequences of ambition. As a character, she serves as a thematic lens to explore the dangers of absolute power and the cyclical nature of violence in history. Her journey is not just personal but also historical, reflecting the cyclical nature of political power and the enduring impact of past actions on the present and future.

For instance, the proposed idea of Daenerys as an Elizabethan figure would see her rise to power initially facing opposition due to religious and traditional norms. Yet, as she matures and asserts her leadership, she would confront and overcome Cersei Lannister in a dramatic and satisfying manner, symbolizing the triumph of moral integrity and justice. This would lead to a new era marked by prosperity, with her successor, Jon Snow, establishing a golden age for the realm and ensuring the continuity of her legacy.

In conclusion, George R.R. Martin's original vision for Daenerys Targaryen was to create a complex, morally ambiguous, and deeply influential character whose journey is intertwined with the broader narrative of power, legacy, and the moral implications of ambition. This aspect of her character makes her a central figure in the A Song of Ice and Fire series, resonating with readers on both emotional and intellectual levels.