Why Does Daenerys Ride Drogon, but Not the Other Dragons?
In the world of Game of Thrones, dragon riders form a unique bond with their dragons. This article delves into the reasons why Daenerys Targaryen only rides Drogon and not her other two dragons, Rhaegal and Viserion. We’ll explore the specifics of dragon bonding and rider selection.
Understanding Dragon Bonding
Dragon bonding is a complex and intricate relationship between dragons and their riders. Typically, a dragon is bonded solely to one rider. This bond is both physical and spiritual, and it is deeply significant. The bond creates a mutual understanding and a strong connection between dragon and rider, which is why only one rider can sit atop a dragon at a time.
The Physical Aspect of Bonding
From a physical standpoint, dragons need to assess the weight and size of their riders. In the case of Daenerys, it is mentioned that the other two dragons, Rhaegal and Viserion, might be heavier. This difference in weight could play a role in why Daenerys specifically chose Drogon. Dragons are sensitive to the weight and size of their riders, making Drogon the most suitable for Daenerys.
Psychological and Spiritual Connection
Beyond the physical aspects, the psychological and spiritual bond between a dragon and its rider is equally important. Daenerys chose Drogon not just because he was a better fit, but also because of a deep bond formed during her journey with him. This bond is rooted in shared experiences, trials, and challenges. Rhaegal and Viserion, despite being part of the same litter, did not form the same connection with Daenerys as Drogon did. This emotional and spiritual bond is crucial for the rider-dragon relationship.
What Happens if a Rider Dies?
What happens when a rider dies? The dragons do not relinquish their bond immediately. The book A Song of Ice and Fire and the show Game of Thrones provide insight into this process. Upon the death of a rider, a dragon may recognize a new potential rider, but it is not an automatic or immediate process. For example, Jon Snow took up the reins of Rhaegal after Daenerys’ death, a period during which the relationship was not completely settled.
Specific Cases in the Show
In the Game of Thrones show, Rhaegal was ridden by Jon Snow in the absence of Daenerys. Similarly, Viserion, after being resurrected by the Night King, was briefly taken over by the Night King himself. These examples illustrate how dragons only accept new riders upon the death or removal of the existing rider.
Conclusion
The ability of Daenerys to ride Drogon but not the other two dragons highlights the unique bond formed between dragon and rider. This bond is both physical and spiritual, and it determines the rider-dragon relationship in the world of Game of Thrones. While the other two dragons were physically heavier or had other riders, Drogon presented the perfect match for Daenerys. Understanding the intricacies of dragon bonding offers insights into the deeper themes of loyalty, connection, and mutual respect in the world of Westeros.