Where was Azor Ahai From and the Myths Surrounding Him
The story of Azor Ahai is a rich tapestry woven throughout the fabric of Westeros, with Asshai playing a pivotal role in its narrative. However, the origins of Azor Ahai himself are as murky as the waters of the Great Sea. Whether he was born and raised in Asshai or emerged from another realm, the myth continues to captivate the hearts and minds of Westerosi and Beyond-the-Walls alike.
The Azor Ahai Myth: A Complex Web of Legends
The Azor Ahai myth as told in Westeros comes from Asshai, a city known for its mysticality and dark power. However, the true origins of the real Azor Ahai remain a mystery. While Asshai is often mentioned, it's possible that the actual hero hailed from elsewhere, and the name "Azor Ahai" simply became the way RR followers retold his story. Several figures, including Eldric Shadowchaser and Yin Tar, are also viewed as variations of the Azor Ahai myth.
The Evolution of the Azor Ahai Saga
The likelihood is that the stories surrounding Azor Ahai—whether they are about Eldric, Yin Tar, the Prince That Was Promised, or the Last Hero—are based on one vague historical person. These stories have evolved as they spread, with each culture imprinting its own values and beliefs. For example, in the fire god cult, you find a messiah figure who plunges a flaming sword into his wife's heart.
A Theoretical Analysis: The Azor Ahai Story
My theory—based on the prevailing narratives but acknowledging its unproven nature—is that the Azor Ahai legend is a reconfigured mash-up of events that occurred during the Long Night in Westeros. This story has been twisted and retold so many times that the present version is barely recognizable. By deconstructing the narrative, one can see similarities with the Night's Watch and its vows, such as the "sword in the darkness," "the light that brings the dawn," and "giving up wives." Other elements include water, the Wall, the lion's pride, and Nissa Nissa, mirroring the figure of his wife or family.
Water, the Wall, and Pride
The mythological elements of Azor Ahai resonate deeply with Westeros itself. Water plays a significant role, representing the forbidden and mysterious Atlantic Ocean. The Wall, the majestic and imposing structure of ice, serves as a symbol of the divide between the known and the unknown. The lion, a symbol of pride and glory, represents the world's strength and honor. Nissa Nissa, the name ascribed to Azor Ahai's wife or family, is a pivotal figure in the narrative, often serving as a sacrifice for the greater good.
Conclusion
The story of Azor Ahai is not a simple tale of a hero and a sword. It is a complex web of legends, myths, and cultural values that have evolved over time. Whether Azor Ahai was born in Asshai or another land, the myth has shaped Westeros in countless ways. As the story continues to evolve, it remains a source of fascination and intrigue for all who inhabit the Seven Kingdoms and Beyond-the-Walls.