Ancano (Skyrim)

 is an Altmer mage at the College of Winterhold in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. He is a Thalmor operative and serves as an adviser for Arch-Mage Savos Aren.

Background
The other mages of the college are highly suspicious of him; he remains highly suspicious of the Dragonborn. He also blames his/her presence on the incompetence of the Arch-Mage.

Interactions
During the College of Winterhold quest line, Ancano attempts to harness the energy of the Eye of Magnus, erecting a barrier between himself and other mages of the College. Savos Aren is killed in the process.

Only once Morokei is defeated and the Staff of Magnus is obtained can the Dragonborn return to the College and defeat Ancano. The staff must be used on the Eye to close it, allowing the Dragonborn to successfully attack and kill Ancano.

In Combat
Despite his in-battle quotes, such as "My power is supreme!", Ancano is actually quite an easy opponent to defeat. In fact, the only remarkable thing about him is his invulnerability granted by the Eye of Magnus. When he is hostile he will normally use Flame spells, like Fireball, although he knows Sparks too. He will also use wards to defend himself. Strangely, he will chase after the Dragonborn and attempt to punch the Dragonborn into submission; this can cause the Dragonborn difficulty at closing the Eye. He is immune to all effects when the Eye protects him, but follows the same attack pattern.

Quests

 * The Staff of Magnus (Quest)
 * The Eye of Magnus

Trivia

 * Ancano is flagged as an essential character.
 * Ancano's corpse can be controlled by using Dead Thrall or Ritual Stone.
 * Although she dislikes him, Nirya finds him "handsome".
 * Although he denies being a Thalmor agent, he openly wears the Thalmor uniform.

Quotes

 * I have many important things on my mind. Your concerns are not among them.
 * Are you quite sure we need to be speaking?
 * I'm disappointed to say I've learned little during my time here.
 * I had hoped your scholars would be on a level comparable with my own colleagues. They are not.

Appearances
Ancano
 * The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim