The Question of Dothraki and Ironborn Attacks on Braavos in A Song of Ice and Fire
In George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire, the Dothraki and Ironborn are distinct powers with their own motivations and strategies. While these two formidable warrior groups have not been depicted as launching attacks on Braavos, there are reasons why such an endeavor would be exceptionally challenging.
Understanding the Dothraki
Primarily nomadic and driven by raiding across the vast grasslands of Essos, the Dothraki have a reputation for targeting vulnerable cities and settlements. However, Braavos, a powerful and wealthy city-state with a strong defense system and a powerful navy, presents a formidable challenge to them.
The Dothraki's strength lies in their cavalry charges across open plains, and they have a near-pathological fear of the salt ocean. Historically, crossing the vast waters to reach Braavos would have been logistically challenging for them. Furthermore, the Dothraki's focus is on rapid and decisive victories on land, which makes attacking a fortified city like Braavos a less viable strategy.
The Ironborn: Skilled Seafarers but not Coastal Raiders
Known for their piratical raids, the Ironborn have historically targeted the more accessible and less heavily defended regions of Westeros, such as the Westerlands and the surrounding coastal areas. While their seafaring skills are well-developed, attacking a fortified city like Braavos would be a daunting task.
The Ironborn's raids are typically aimed at plunder and conquest, and their focus is often on the coastal areas where they can easily conduct these operations. The journey to Braavos would be lengthy and fraught with dangers, making such an expedition unlikely and impractical.
Why Braavos Stood Unconquered
Braavos is portrayed as a stronghold of trade and power, with a reputation that serves as a deterrent to potential attackers. Its location, combined with its formidable naval capabilities, makes it a difficult target for both the Dothraki and the Ironborn.
Historically, the Dothraki would find it near impossible to launch a successful attack on Braavos, even with the best cavalry in the world. The Ironborn, while capable seafarers, would also face numerous challenges in attempting such an assault, given the sheer distance and the well-defended nature of the city.
Merchants and Mercenaries: An Alternate Path for the Ironborn
Your question also prompts consideration of the possible paths taken by the Ironborn, especially in the realm of historical context. While direct attacks on Braavos are improbable, it is worth noting that the Ironborn do have alternative methods of engagement with the powerful city. History shows us that some Iron Islanders have taken to the sea, becoming mercenaries and serving in various capacities, such as fighting under the banner of the Seals of Braavos.
These Ironborn have likely sought other means to survive and thrive, such as mercantile activities or service in other capacities. The wealth and strategic importance of Braavos, combined with the historical precedent of Norse warriors reaching Constantinople, suggest that some Ironborn have indeed ventured into more lucrative and secure roles.
In conclusion, while the Dothraki and Ironborn have not launched attacks on Braavos, their strategies, geographical limitations, and the formidable defenses of Braavos all make such an endeavor highly improbable. Instead, there are more viable paths, such as becoming mercenaries or engaging in trade, that provide better opportunities for survival and prosperity.