Unraveling the Flaws- What’s Really Wrong with Viserys Targaryen-_1
What’s wrong with Viserys? This question has been on the minds of many fans of the popular fantasy series “A Song of Ice and Fire” by George R.R. Martin. Viserys Targaryen, the second son of King Aerys II Targaryen and Rhaella Targaryen, is often criticized for his character flaws and lack of leadership. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind the criticism and analyze the factors that contribute to Viserys’ shortcomings as a ruler and a character.
Viserys’ character flaws are evident from the very beginning of the series. His arrogance and overconfidence are the primary reasons for his downfall. As the heir to the Iron Throne, Viserys is raised to believe that he is destined for greatness, and he fails to appreciate the responsibilities that come with his position. This overinflated sense of self-importance leads him to make poor decisions and alienate those around him.
One of the most notable examples of Viserys’ arrogance is his treatment of Daenerys Targaryen, his half-sister. Despite their shared heritage, Viserys views Daenerys as a mere pawn in his quest to reclaim the Iron Throne. He fails to recognize her potential and instead dismisses her as a “barbarian.” This lack of respect and understanding is a significant flaw in Viserys’ character and contributes to the strained relationship between the siblings.
Another significant issue with Viserys is his lack of leadership skills. As a ruler, he is unable to inspire loyalty or motivate his people. His fear of losing his power and his tendency to make impulsive decisions without considering the consequences make him an ineffective leader. For instance, his decision to marry Elia Martell, a princess from Dorne, was driven by his desire to expand his influence rather than genuine affection or political strategy. This marriage ultimately leads to the outbreak of the civil war known as the War of the Five Kings.
Furthermore, Viserys’ obsession with the dragons plays a crucial role in his character flaws. His belief that dragons are the key to reclaiming the Iron Throne leads him to make irrational decisions and put his people at risk. His attempt to use the dragons to conquer Westeros is a classic example of his lack of judgment and understanding of the complexities of the world he lives in.
In conclusion, what’s wrong with Viserys is a combination of his arrogance, lack of leadership, and poor decision-making. These flaws contribute to his downfall and make him a less than ideal character in the “A Song of Ice and Fire” series. While some may argue that his character serves as a cautionary tale for aspiring rulers, it is clear that Viserys’ shortcomings are a significant part of what makes him such a memorable and controversial figure in the world of Westeros.
