Understanding Daenerys and Drogon's Reaction During the Sacking of King's Landing

In the A Song of Ice and Fire series, particularly in Game of Thrones, the relationship between Daenerys Targaryen and her dragons, especially Drogon, is a central and often discussed aspect of the narrative. One point of contention is whether Drogon's destructive rampage during the sacking of King's Landing was influenced by Daenerys' emotional state. This article explores the possible reasons behind this behavior, drawing parallels to known behaviors of dragons as depicted in the show.

The Pivotal Moment: The Sacking of King's Landing

The moment after the bells ring, indicating the city's surrender, marks a significant shift in Daenerys' focus. Her attention turns to the Red Keep, symbolizing a shift from her initial plan of mercy to a more ruthless and aggressive stance. This shift is crucial because it demonstrates the potential impact of emotional turmoil on her ability to control Drogon.

The show occasionally emphasizes the deep connection between Targaryens and their dragons. Strong emotions are known to influence dragon behavior, as seen in various scenes throughout the series. Given this context, it is plausible that Drogon's destructive rampages were partly influenced by Daenerys' heightened emotional state.

Facial Expressions and Emotional Interpretation

One of the most discussed points is the lack of visual cues of Daenerys' emotional state after the bells ring. While it is true that Emilie Clark, Daenerys' actress, might not always display a full range of emotions, the show's use of cutaways and close-ups provides valuable insights into her emotional state.

During the pivotal scene, we see multiple cutaways that focus on the Red Keep, indicating that Daenerys' gaze is directed towards it. The camera stays with her longer than with the people below, suggesting her focus on the Red Keep, not the civilians. Her facial expressions during this scene reveal a mix of emotions: anger, determination, sadness, and resolve. These micro-expressions, as discussed in the Definitive Guide to Reading Microexpressions, can be seen as indicators of her emotional state and her intentions to take aggressive action.

Behavioral Analysis of Drogon

It is also important to analyze Drogon's behavior during the scene. While some argue that Drogon went wild, the scene reveals a more systematic and considered approach rather than a purely emotional one. The show's detailing of his precise strafing patterns suggests a controlled and deliberate action rather than a chaotic rampage. This systematic approach aligns more with the show's portrayal of Drogon as a strategic character.

Consider the final aerial shot, where Drogon's shadow looms over the city, leading to the destruction of Kings Landing. This scene, despite its dramatic impact, is more in line with a calculated assault than an emotional outburst. The show does not provide a clear emotional expression from Daenerys as she commands Drogon, suggesting that her actions were more about following her strategic plan than succumbing to emotional turmoil.

Why the Pivotal Scene Is Ongoing Controversy

The controversial nature of the scene stems from the difficulty in interpreting facial expressions without context. The contrast in some viewers' interpretations of Daenerys' emotional state is stark, ranging from relief and satisfaction to anger and madness. The editing and the nature of how the scene is shot contribute to this ongoing debate.

Moreover, the show's decision to leave out a clear indication of Daenerys' emotional state might be intentional. It leaves the interpretation open, allowing viewers to form their own conclusions. This open-ended approach adds depth to the narrative, inviting discussion and different perspectives from viewers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the emotional state of Daenerys and its influence on Drogon's behavior is a topic of debate, the evidence from the scenes and the show's editing style suggests that Drogon's actions were more strategic than purely emotional. The show's thematic exploration of power, emotions, and the connection between Targaryens and their dragons provides a richer understanding of the events during the sacking of King's Landing.

For those interested in the deeper analysis of the show's narrative and character development, this scene remains a pivotal moment, sparking ongoing debate and discussion among fans and critics alike.