Was Daenerys Targaryen's Character Arc Handled Well in Game of Thrones?

The Final Season's Rush and Character Changes

No, the last season of Game of Thrones felt rushed and the character changes were too quick for the timeline of the series. The pace at which Daenerys Targaryen's (Daeny) character evolved during the finale left many viewers feeling unprepared and unfulfilled. This rush was evident in the abruptness of her actions and the quick confluence of events that led to her tragic demise. While some viewers have criticized the rushed nature of the final season, it's important to consider the extensive background and depth that elaborate on Daeny's character.

Bring Me No Vile Gifts

When asked whether Daenerys Targaryen's character arc was handled well in the television series, my answer is a resounding 'Yes'.
This response is based on multiple viewings of the show, thorough analysis of various scenes, and insights from special segments with writers and actresses, not to mention the vast amount of personal research I have done on the topic. While I have not read the books, they remain a significant next step in my understanding of the series.

Daenerys as a Warlord

Daeny is not a princess who lost her prince, nor is she a pauper trying to establish a name in the world she lives in. She is not a queen who was ousted from leadership or influenced by a more powerful ruler either. She is simply a warlord, part of a lineage of the best warlords of her time. Everything that happened to Daeny can be understood from this perspective.

She was raised in a world of knights and warlords, and her actions, from claiming the throne to her eventual choices, are all a part of her character's development. Her intentions were to create a new system in Westeros, one where the throne was destroyed and the lands were ruled by different means. This was her ultimate goal since discovering Jon's true identity.

Understanding Her Decisions

Daeny's actions leading up to the sacking of King's Landing were necessary to ensure a place for her and Jon in the same kingdom without either of them having to die. She knew that two Targaryens would inevitably cause conflict. Her anger towards Sansa's revelation about Jon's lineage is understandable, as it created a new power dynamic that could either lead to a fight or a stalemate.

During season 7, Daeny targeted houses that did not recognize her as their queen, not because she was a tyrant but because she needed loyal servants in a world where there would only be one ruler. Her decisions were rooted in the idea that "a Targaryen all alone is a sad thing." Tyrion's statement that a Targaryen needs a kingdom of their own to rule underlines the importance of unity within their family.

Daeny's Denouement

When Daeny learned that she no longer had a claim, she took what was left, knowing the consequences. Her ultimate fate was a tragic one, but one that she likely foresaw to some extent.

The final exchange of Jon and Daeny further altered the world, bringing democracy to Westeros. Although the kingdom was fighting for its true King, Daeny's death and Jon's acceptance of the Night's Watch role brought about a significant change, paving the way for a new era in Westeros.

Final Reflections

While the final season of Game of Thrones was rushed, Daenerys Targaryen's character arc was well-developed. Her actions and decisions were a reflection of her complex personality and her ultimate goal of creating a new system in Westeros. As we look back on the series, it's clear that her character was portrayed with depth and richness, making her journey a memorable part of the show's legacy.