Understanding the Dothraki Submission to Daenerys: A Strategic Analysis

In Game of Thrones Season 6 Episode 4, titled “Demonstration of Power”, Daenerys Targaryen’s dramatic emergence from the funeral pyre of Khal Drogo, unscathed and accompanied by three dragons, marks a critical turning point in her journey as the leader of the Dothraki. This act not only solidifies her power but also symbolizes her alignment with the Dothraki traditional beliefs about strength and leadership. Let's delve into the cultural, historical, and strategic factors that led to the Dothraki's immediate submission to her.

Cultural Significance of Power and Leadership

The Dothraki, a formidable and fiercely independent tribe, value physical prowess, warrior strength, and unyielding resolve. Their society is built on the worship of power and strength, which is demonstrated through their selection of leaders. Khal Drogo, for instance, was a charismatic and powerful figure who commanded the respect of the Dothraki. The Dothraki believe that a powerful leader is chosen by the gods and embodies the spirit of the heavens. Daenerys, with her unblemished survival from the funeral pyre, aligns perfectly with these beliefs. The flames represent a test of divine favor and destiny, reinforcing her perceived divine right to lead.

Legacy of Drogo and Daenerys’ Rise to Power

Daenerys is the widow of Khal Drogo, and her connection to him gives her legitimacy among the Dothraki. After Drogo’s death, they initially rejected her rule, viewing her as an outsider and a weak female figurehead. However, her actions in the episode—surviving the flames and reasserting her power—rekindle their respect and loyalty. By claiming the title of Khal, Daenerys effectively unifies the Dothraki tribes under her leadership. The concept of a Khal is deeply ingrained in Dothraki culture, and her rise as a new Khal allows them to rally around her, ensuring their continued support and loyalty.

A Vision for Conquest and Unity

In addition to her charismatic and powerful demeanor, Daenerys articulates a clear vision for the future, promising to lead them to conquer Westeros. This ambition captures the Dothraki desire for raiding and adventure, motivating them to follow her. The Dothraki, known for their savage lifestyle and fierce combat ability, relish the prospect of following a leader who shares their passion for power and conquest. Daenerys not only aligns with their cultural values but also offers a path to greater glory and dominance, which is a powerful incentive for them to submit to her leadership.

The Challenges and Criticisms

While Daenerys’s actions on the funeral pyre are a powerful moment, they are not without criticism. Some argue that the scene is a lazy plot device, a convenient way to advance the story rather than a nuanced exploration of character development. In the books, the Dothraki are portrayed as deeply opposing magic and would have been skeptical of Daenerys’s abilities if she had been perceived as a maegi (a person who uses magic). The Dothraki despised magic and feared it, which makes it less likely that they would immediately submit to someone they perceived as a magic user.

Another criticism is that the scene is aesthetically pleasing rather than strategically sound. While the sight of Daenerys emerging from the flames was intended to show her resilience and power, some viewers and critics argue that a simpler, more realistic demonstration of strength and leadership might have been more effective. The 8,000 Unsullied, though impressive, may not have been enough to sway the Dothraki. Their loyalty and support were crucial, and the symbolic demonstration of power on the funeral pyre serves as an effective unifier.

Conclusion

The Dothraki’s immediate submission to Daenerys at the end of S6E4 of Game of Thrones is a result of a combination of cultural, historical, and strategic factors. Daenerys’s resilience, her connection to Khal Drogo, her vision for the future, and her clear display of power all play crucial roles in convincing the Dothraki to follow her. However, this moment is not without its criticisms, and a more nuanced approach to character development and plot progression might have been more effective.