The Symbolism of Daenerys’s Ring in Game of Thrones Season 5 Episode 10: Mothers of Mercy

In Game of Thrones Season 5 Episode 10, titled Mothers of Mercy, a pivotal moment occurs when Daenerys Targaryen removes her ring as the Dothraki Khalsasa approaches. This act serves multiple symbolic purposes, and delves into themes of identity, vulnerability, and transformation. Understanding the significance of this gesture is crucial to dissecting Daenerys’s complex character and the overarching narrative of the series.

Identity and Power

The ring held significant meaning for Daenerys, often symbolizing her identity as the widow of Khal Drogo and a symbol of her status. It is a physical representation of her past and the ties to her traditional role as a queen. By shedding the ring, Daenerys is symbolically discarding her former identity as she prepares to face new challenges. This act signifies a profound transition, moving away from the rigid structure of her previous life and embracing the fluidity and uncertainty of her new path. As she steps into the unknown with the Dothraki, she is shedding the trappings of her royal identity, possibly to appear more relatable or to adapt to the needs of the scenario at hand.

Vulnerability

The moment of removing the ring is also a symbol of vulnerability. In confronting the Dothraki, Daenerys appears to be putting herself into a potentially dangerous situation. By relinquishing a physical element that might be seen as a deterrent to her enemies, she is exposing herself. However, this shedding of the ring can also be viewed as a strategic move to diminish her perceived power and authority, thus making herself more approachable. The removal of the ring potentially makes her seem less formidable, allowing her to integrate more seamlessly into her new environment. This act of vulnerability is not merely physical but also emotional, marking a turning point in Daenerys's journey as she learns to navigate the complexities of leadership without the weight of her past.

Transformation

The removal of the ring foreshadows Daenerys's transformation as she faces the Dothraki. This act marks the beginning of a significant shift in her character, from a queen with a specific following to someone who must adapt to different circumstances. The ring represents her past identity, and by removing it, she acknowledges the need to transform and become someone new. This transition is crucial to her journey, as it sets the stage for her to embrace a more communal and less autocratic leadership style, which is evident in her interactions with the Dothraki.

Strategic Use of the Ring as a Breadcrumb

Contrary to the symbolic significance of the ring, it is also presented as a strategic tool in the story. The ring becomes a breadcrumb, a physical clue left behind for those seeking her. This is evidenced in the narrative where Jorah and Daario are able to find the ring, which leads them to identify Daenerys's location and ultimately track her to Vaes Dothrak. This is an unlikely scenario, given the show's tendency to simplify complex logistics for storytelling purposes. However, this element of the story emphasizes the symbolic importance of the ring as a marker and a strategic tool, enhancing the narrative's coherence and drama.

Conclusion

In Game of Thrones Season 5 Episode 10, Daenerys Targaryen's removal of her ring is a multi-layered act that encapsulates her complex relationship with her identity, power, and the evolving narrative of her journey. It signifies a conscious move towards transformation and vulnerability, and serves a dual purpose as a symbolic and strategic element in the story. This scene is a prime example of how Game of Thrones uses symbolism to drive its narrative, making it a rich and layered viewing experience for its audience.