Did Viserys Targaryen Deserve to Die?

The character of Viserys Targaryen in Game of Thrones is one of the most controversial and complex in the series. Often portrayed as a cruel, bitter, and unfit ruler, many fans and critics debate whether his demise was justified. Let's delve into the moral and ethical implications of his actions and his ultimate fate.

Viserys: Narth Draco Who?

Viserys Targaryen, often referred to as Narth Draco, was a Targaryen prince who ascended the Iron Throne after his sister, Daenerys, was named heir. Despite his title, his actions and character diminish his relevance and moral standing in the eyes of many viewers.

Descent into Madness

Viserys's journey from a hopeful sovereign to a bitter drunk is a tragic one. His greed and megalomania led him to cross paths with Daenerys, who had promised to help him regain the throne. However, his inability to see her potential as a true leader and his possessive nature led to his downfall. His actions often border on selfishness and cruelty, making him a two-dimensional character whose actions frequently sparked debate.

Viserys's Final Act: A Mortal Sins

The events that led to Viserys's fatal demise are crucial to understanding why his actions warranted his end. On the eve of his death, Viserys, drunk and desperate, decided to disrupt a celebration honoring Khal Drogo, a powerful Dothraki warlord. His bold and violent act against the pregnant Khaleesi (Khaleesi is a title given to the women of the Dothraki, often seen as semi-sacred), combined with his public declaration of his intentions for the Dothraki, led to a swift and brutal end for him.

Analysis of Viserys's Actions

Threatened a pregnant woman and her unborn child Threatened to shed blood in a sacred city where weapons are forbidden Called his hosts savages and abuse issues Directly threatened the Khaleesi of Drogo Violated Dany’s trust and handmaidens Was perceived as weak and inept Made an alliance with adversaries Acted in a drunken stupor May have threatened rape, a point of contention in the series

An Ethical Dilemma

The question of whether Viserys deserved to die arises from the complex interplay of his actions and their consequences. While his ultimate end was brutal, it was also a direct result of his choices. In Game of Thrones, the show often portrays the consequences of immoral choices, and Viserys's downfall serves as a stark reminder of the perils of hubris and selfishness.

Jon Snow's Perspective

From Jon Snow's perspective, Viserys's death was a difficult decision. Out of love and loyalty, Jon hesitated to take the life of a man who once held some promise. However, the sanctity of life and the need to protect the innocent weighed heavily on his conscience. Jon's actions were not driven by hate but by a sense of duty to safeguard the realm and those he cared about.

What About Daenerys?

Daenerys, initially portrayed as a symbol of redemption and hope, also falls short of her potential. Her actions, while sometimes heroic, were often motivated by a twisted sense of justice and an avowed desire to exact vengeance. Her role in Viserys's death is complex, as she played a critical role in his fate but was not the sole instigator. Ultimately, her actions, including the destruction of King's Landing, also warranted a harsh end.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while both Viserys and Daenerys faced significant moral compromises, the actions of Viserys were particularly egregious, warranting his demise. His blinding selfishness, coupled with a series of catastrophic decisions, led to his downfall. The show's portrayal of his death serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of unchecked ambition and the consequences of moral bankruptcy.