Why didn’t the dragons attack Jon after Daenerys’s death? It’s a question that has puzzled Game of Thrones fans ever since the dramatic finale aired. In a moment filled with heartbreak and betrayal, Jon Snow makes the impossible choice—killing Daenerys to save the realm. Yet, instead of burning him alive in a fiery rage, Drogon, her last surviving dragon, spares Jon and flies away with her body. This unexpected reaction left viewers stunned. Was it grief, recognition, or something deeper that stayed Drogon’s wrath? In this article, we’ll explore the emotional, symbolic, and lore-driven reasons behind that unforgettable scene.
The Dragons’ Emotional Connection to Daenerys
Overview of Daenerys’s bond with the dragons:
Daenerys Targaryen had a unique connection with her dragons as their “mother” due to her Targaryen lineage. This bond was formed from a young age and was evident in moments such as when she freed Drogon and the other dragons from captivity. The emotional moments they shared, such as Daenerys riding Drogon, further highlighted the deep connection between them. This connection was a significant aspect of Daenerys’ character and played a crucial role in her journey throughout the show.
Dragons as sentient beings:
Dragon’s reaction to Daenerys’s death was one of deep emotional distress. His outburst, burning the Iron Throne, and flying away with her body showed the depth of his grief and anger. It’s evident that the dragons were deeply attached to Daenerys, and her death had a profound impact on them. This emotional devastation might have played a role in their decision not to harm Jon Snow, despite his role in her death. It’s a reminder of the strong emotional bond between dragons and their riders.
Dragon’s selective behavior:
Dragon’s decision to burn the Iron Throne instead of Jon was a powerful display of emotional intelligence and personal decision-making. By destroying the symbol of power and corruption that led to so much suffering, Drogon showed a deep understanding of the true source of the turmoil in Westeros. This choice also demonstrated his ability to make a meaningful and impactful decision based on his own emotions and instincts. It was a pivotal moment that showcased Dragon’s complexity and depth as a character.
Jon Snow’s Targaryen Heritage and His Link to the Dragons
Jon Snow’s Targaryen bloodline:
Jon’s true parentage was revealed to be Lyanna Stark and Rhaegar Targaryen, making him a legitimate Targaryen by birth. This connection to House Targaryen is significant because it gives Jon a claim to the Iron Throne, as well as a potential connection to the dragons. In the world of Game of Thrones, it’s believed that dragons have an instinctive recognition of Targaryen blood, and there are moments in the series where this is hinted at, such as when Drogon appears to accept Jon as a rider. This recognition by the dragons further solidifies Jon’s connection to his Targaryen heritage and adds an interesting layer to his character.
Jon’s bond with the dragons:
Is a fascinating aspect of the lore in the Game of Thrones series. Throughout the show, we see Jon Snow, who is revealed to be a Targaryen, interact with Daenerys’ dragons in a unique way. His ability to approach and even ride Drogon without being attacked suggests that there is a special connection between Targaryens and dragons. This is further supported by the historical accounts of Targaryens bonding with dragons and using them in battle. It adds an intriguing layer to the Targaryen lineage and their mystical connection to these powerful creatures.
The role of Jon as a “true” Targaryen:
Jon’s actions in the finale, specifically his decision to kill Daenerys, may have actually reinforced the bond he shared with the Targaryen family, despite his betrayal. As a member of the family by blood, Jon’s actions were driven by a sense of duty and honor, rather than personal gain. By making this difficult decision, Jon demonstrated his commitment to doing what he believed was right, even if it meant going against someone he cared for deeply. In a way, his actions might have served to further solidify the familial bond, as he ultimately acted in the best interest of the Targaryen family and the realm.
Dragon’s Grief and Psychological State
Dragon’s mourning process:
Dragon’s emotional state after Daenerys’s death was visibly one of sorrow and grief. His reaction to her death was very human-like, as he interacted with her body in a tender and caring manner. He nudged her and appeared to mourn her loss before ultimately flying away with her. In terms of typical animal behaviors, Dragon’s reaction aligns with the mourning and grieving behavior often observed in animals when they lose a companion or leader. Many animals, especially those with strong social bonds, will exhibit signs of distress, such as vocalizations, repetitive actions, and even reluctance to leave the body of the deceased.
Dragons as creatures of emotion:
Dragons, like humans, are believed to have emotional responses to loss and betrayal. In the case of Drogon from Game of Thrones, his decision to not harm Jon Snow could be interpreted as a reflection of his overwhelming grief and confusion, rather than simply direct anger toward him. This suggests that dragons may have complex emotional experiences that go beyond instinctual reactions. While this is a fictional example, it raises interesting questions about the emotional lives of mythical creatures and the parallels that can be drawn between them and humans.
The symbolic weight of Dragon’s departure:
Yes, that’s a possible interpretation. Dragon’s flight with Daenerys’s body could symbolize his final act of loyalty to her, rather than seeking vengeance against Jon. It’s possible that Drogon saw Jon as a part of Daenerys and his anger was directed at her death, rather than at Jon himself. This moment could highlight the deep bond between Daenerys and her dragon, showcasing Dragon’s unwavering loyalty to her even in death.
The Symbolism of Jon’s Actions
Jon’s decision to kill Daenerys:
Jon’s decision to kill Daenerys was portrayed as a moral and emotional dilemma, as he struggled with his love for her and his duty to protect the realm. Despite his deep affection for Daenerys, Jon ultimately made the heartbreaking choice to end her life in order to prevent further destruction and suffering. This portrayal highlights the complexity of his decision, as it was driven by a sense of duty and sacrifice rather than personal gain. It demonstrates the noble yet tragic nature of Jon’s character, as he grappled with the consequences of his actions and put the needs of the realm above his own desires.
Jon as a “protector” of the realm:
Throughout Jon Snow’s character arc in Game of Thrones, we see him grow from a reluctant leader to a king who is willing to sacrifice anything, even love, for the greater good. His actions, including his decision to kill Daenerys, may have been seen by Drogon as an attempt to prevent her from becoming a tyrant rather than a betrayal. This highlights Jon’s unwavering commitment to doing what he believes is right, even at great personal cost. His character arc is a compelling exploration of the complexities of leadership and morality in the world of Westeros.
The Influence of Magic and Prophecy
The magical connection between Targaryens and dragons
In the world of Game of Thrones, Targaryens are often depicted as having a special, almost mystical, connection with dragons. This connection is said to be rooted in their bloodline and is believed to be a result of ancient magical rituals and bonding between Targaryens and dragons. The Targaryens are known as the dragonlords of old Valyria, and their ability to tame and ride dragons is a significant part of their identity. This bond is so strong that dragons are said to only truly obey and bond with Targaryen blood, which is why they are often seen as the rightful rulers of these powerful creatures.
Prophecy and the “Prince That Was Promised”:
This theory taps into the long-standing prophecies and lore surrounding the Targaryen bloodline and the potential connection between Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen. One of the most well-known prophecies in the Game of Thrones universe is the prophecy of the Prince That Was Promised, a figure who is destined to save the world from darkness. Many fans have speculated that either Jon or Daenerys could fulfill this prophecy, and their potential connection through their Targaryen bloodline adds an extra layer of intrigue.
The Legacy of Daenerys and the Fate of the Dragons
It is unclear what will happen to Drogon after the final season of Game of Thrones. Without a clear master or leader, he may return to the wild or continue to be loyal to the Targaryen line. The dragons have always been a metaphor for the last remnants of a once-great dynasty, and their potential role in future stories is still uncertain. Their legacy and impact on the future of Westeros remains to be seen.
Conclusion
The possible reasons why Drogon did not attack Jon after Daenerys’s death include emotional bonds, Jon’s Targaryen heritage, Dragon’s grief, and the complex nature of Jon’s actions. The dragons in Game of Thrones hold symbolic power, have emotional depth, and are closely connected to the Targaryen family. The mystery of why Drogon spared Jon may never have a single definitive answer, but it serves as a poignant symbol of the intricate relationships between family, loyalty, and destiny.