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| + | '''Dragonborn''', also referred to as '''Dovahkiin''' in the [[Dragon Language]], are individuals with the body of a mortal, but the blood<ref name="BoD">''[[The Book of the Dragonborn]]''</ref> and soul of a [[Dragons (Lore)|Dragon]].<ref>''[[Loading Screens (Skyrim)|Loading Screens]] in {{Skyrim}}''</ref><ref name="RiseFall">''[[The Rise and Fall of the Blades]]''</ref> Some believe that Dragonborn appear on the world in times of great need by the command of the Gods.<ref name="DwArnWay">Dialogue with [[Arngeir]] during "[[The Way of the Voice]]"</ref> |
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| − | {{Quote|Skyrim legend tells of a hero known as the Dragonborn, a warrior with the body of a mortal and soul of a dragon, whose destiny it is to destroy the evil dragon Alduin.|[[Loading Screens (Skyrim)]]|The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim}} |
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| − | A '''Dragonborn''', ([[Dragon Language|Dovahzul]]: {{DragonScript|word=Dovahkiin|size=16px}} '''Dovahkiin''', which can mean both "dragon-born" and "dragonkind-hunter-born"), is a rare individual who has been born with the blood and [[soul]] of a [[Dragons (Lore)|dragon]], but the body of a [[mortal]].<ref name="bookdb"/> They can naturally learn and speak the ancient and powerful tongue of the Dov, called the [[Thu'um]].<ref name=Arn/> |
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| + | ==Cultural beliefs== |
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| − | Dragonborn scarcely exist, and it is rare for more than one to appear at the same time.<ref name=Arn>Dialogue with [[Arngeir]]</ref> They can belong to any [[Races (Skyrim)|race]] or gender, since dragons have no inherent concept of gender, and the dragon blood (transliterated from {{DragonScript|word=DovahSos|size=16px}} to Dovah Sos) is a gift bestowed to certain mortals favored by [[Akatosh]]. Despite their divine souls, Dragonborn possess a mortal free will and may serve as champions for either the [[Nine Divines]] or the [[Daedric Princes]]. It is unknown if the Daedra claim the souls of their Dragonborn champions as they do with their other servants. Their mortal bodies also subject them to mortal vulnerabilities; old age, death, and [[disease]] all affect Dragonborn as they do common mortals. |
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| + | {{Quotefull|Dragons have the inborn ability to learn and project their Voice. Dragons also are able to absorb the power of their slain brethren. A few mortals are born with similar abilities -- whether a gift or a curse has been a matter of debate down through the centuries. What you have already learned in a few days took even the most gifted of us years to achieve. Some believe that Dragonborn are sent into the world by the gods, at times of great need.|[[Arngeir]]|The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim}} |
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| + | By Nord tradition, a Dragonborn represents what a Nord should strive to be. The Nords believe Dragonborn represent the end of all of Skyrim's foes.<ref>''[[Songs of Skyrim]]''</ref> Nord tales likewise tell of Dragonborn of old who were great and powerful Dragonslayers,<ref name="BoD"/> a belief which the [[Blades]] of the late-Fourth Era also believe to be the reason why the old Akaviri Dragonguard came to serve the Dragonborn.<ref>Dialogue with [[Delphine (Skyrim)|Delphine]] during "[[Alduin's Wall (Quest)|Alduin's Wall]]"</ref> |
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| + | It is unknown as to how a Dragonborn is chosen. The various dynasties of Dragonborn Emperors led to a common belief that the Dragon blood is hereditary, though since it is a blessing of [[Akatosh]] himself it cannot be known how or why it is bestowed. It is unknown if the Dragonborn Emperors were Dragonborn, and thus able to wear the Amulet of Kings and light the Dragonfires, or if these acts were the sign of Akatosh's blessings for these individuals Dragonborn. Aside from the Dragonborn Dynasties, it is also unknown if more than one Dragonborn can exist at the same time.<ref name="BoD"/> |
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| − | Some Dragonborn individuals have knowledge of the Thu'um and can consume a slain dragon's soul and absorb its knowledge directly, allowing them to learn Words of Power instantaneously, and then use the power of a slain dragon's soul to unlock that Shout.<ref name=Arn/> It is said that the [[Blades]] have always guided, protected, and served the Dragonborn, whom they consider "The Ultimate Dragon Slayer."<ref>Dialogue with [[Delphine (Skyrim)|Delphine]]</ref> [[The Greybeards]], however, see the Blades as ambitious assassins who seek to mold the Dragonborn into a weapon for their own ends.<ref name=Arn/> |
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| + | ===The Greybeards=== |
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| − | The [[Alduin's Wall#Prophecy of the Dragonborn|Prophecy of the Dragonborn]], generally attributed to the [[Elder Scroll (Lore)|Elder Scrolls]],<ref>Dialogue with [[Paarthurnax (Skyrim)|Paarthurnax]]</ref> and sometimes to the ancient [[Akaviri]],<ref name=EsbernV>Dialogue with [[Esbern (Skyrim)|Esbern]]</ref> tells that, at the end of time, in the wake of the [[Alduin|World-Eater]], the wheel will turn upon the "[[Last Dragonborn]]."<ref name="bookdb">''[[The Book of the Dragonborn]]''</ref> |
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| + | After slaying a Dragon, and learning the meaning of a Word of Power, the [[Greybeards]] are able to sense this and summon the Dragonborn. Should a Dragonborn choose to answer the summons of the Greybeards, they are first tested to see if they truly possess the Thu'um.<ref>Events of "[[The Way of the Voice]]"</ref> A Dragonborn has the inborn ability to both learn and master a new Word of Power far quicker than a normal mortal can, as regular mortals usually need years of training to learn a word of power. Due to the inborn ability of Dragonborn to use the Thu'um, the Greybeards seek to guide Dragonborn in the proper usage of their power.<ref name="DwArnWay"/> |
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| + | In order to truly show a Dragonborn's abilities, the Greybeards send them off to retrieve the [[Horn of Jurgen Windcaller]], the founder of the Greybeards.<ref>Events of "[[The Horn of Jurgen Windcaller]]"</ref> Upon retrieving the Horn and returning it, the Greybeards formally name the Dragonborn "Ysmir", the "Dragon of the North", to declare the Dragonborn has accepted their guidance.<ref>Dialogue with [[Arngeir]] during "[[The Horn of Jurgen Windcaller]]"</ref> |
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| − | The first Dragonborn in history was [[Miraak]], a [[Dragon Priest]] from the [[Merethic Era]]. Instead of using his Voice to fight [[Alduin]], Miraak decided to serve the Daedric Prince [[Hermaeus Mora]] instead, making himself an enemy of the [[Dragon Cult]] he once served. He was eventually defeated by the dragons and hid in [[Apocrypha]]. He was later encountered in the [[Fourth Era]] and did battle with the [[Last Dragonborn]] before being destroyed by Hermaeus Mora.<ref>Events of {{Dragonborn|!}}</ref> |
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| + | ==History== |
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| − | The next Dragonborn was purportedly [[Saint]] [[Alessia]], the [[Nede|Nedic]] slave-queen who was blessed by [[Akatosh]] and given the [[Amulet of Kings]] to seal the covenant between them. This began the tradition of all legitimate rulers of the Cyrodilic [[Empire]] referred to as Dragonborn, as only they could wear the Amulet of Kings and light the [[Dragonfires|Dragonfire]]s in the [[Temple of the One]].<ref name="bookdb"/><ref>''[[The Amulet of Kings]]''</ref><ref>''[[Trials of St. Alessia]]''</ref> |
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| + | ===[[Merethic Era]]=== |
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| + | [[Miraak]], who lived during the [[Dragon War]] of the Merethic Era, became known as the First Dragonborn.<ref>Dialogue with [[Miraak]] during "[[At the Summit of Apocrypha]]"</ref> The three tongues, [[Hakon One-Eye]], [[Gormlaith Golden-Hilt]], and [[Felldir the Old]], who led the charge against [[Alduin]] had asked Miraak for his aid,<ref name="Bane">Events of "[[Alduin's Bane]]"</ref> though Miraak denied, having other plans.<ref>Combat quotes of [[Miraak]] during "[[At the Summit of Apocrypha]]"</ref> Miraak would eventually be defeated in combat by [[Vahlok the Jailor]], though saved by [[Hermaeus Mora]].<ref>''[[The Guardian and the Traitor]]''</ref> |
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| + | ===[[First Era]]=== |
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| − | [[Reman Cyrodiil]] was considered to be the next Dragonborn after Alessia. Upon their defeat, the Akaviri invaders recognized him as Dragonborn and swore unceasing loyalty to him.<ref name="bookdb"/> |
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| + | During the First Era, the [[Nede|Nedic]] slave rebellion in [[Cyrodiil]] against the [[Ayleid]]s would take place, being led by Slave Queen [[Alessia]].<ref>''[[The Amulet of Kings]]''</ref> Alessia, being a Dragonborn,<ref>''[[Of the Dragonfires (Fragment)]]''</ref> was gifted the [[Amulet of Kings]] by [[Akatosh]], which would be used to light the [[Dragonfires]] and keep the armies of [[Oblivion]] at bay.<ref>''[[Trials of Saint Alessia]]''</ref> Alessia's line would continue with more Dragonborn Emperors and Empresses, until their deaths.<ref name="BoD"/> |
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| + | In [[1E 2703]], the [[Akaviri]] attempted an invasion of Tamriel, which would eventually be foiled by the efforts of [[Reman Cyrodiil]].<ref name="PG3EC">''[[Pocket Guide to the Empire, Third Edition: Cyrodiil]]''</ref> The exact nature of the defeat of the Akaviri is unknown, though it is known that they were not seeking for combat with Reman, but were instead searching for him, as he was Dragonborn.<ref name="RiseFall"/><ref name="BoD"/> Under Reman Cyrodiil, the Dragon blood officially became part of becoming a legitimate Emperor, as he included the ritual geas to the Amulet of Kings,<ref>''[[Varieties of Faith in the Empire]]''</ref> and the lighting of the Dragonfires, in the rites of becoming an Emperor.<ref name="Chronicles">''[[Chronicles of the Five Companions 1]]''</ref> [[Reman Dynasty|His dynasty]] would continue until the death of [[Juilek Cyrodiil]] during the [[Four Score War]].<ref name="PG3EC"/> |
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| − | [[Tiber Septim]], founder of the [[Septim Dynasty]] of [[Tamriel]], was the next individual to be recognized as Dragonborn. His heirs continued the tradition and were all considered Dragonborn Emperors. This lineage ended with the death of [[Martin Septim]] during the [[Oblivion Crisis]]. |
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| + | ===[[Second Era]]=== |
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| − | The Last Dragonborn, otherwise known as the ''Laat Dovahkiin'', appeared during the Fourth Era to fulfill the Prophecy of the Dragonborn. His purpose was to prevent Alduin the World-Eater from consuming all of [[Mundus]] and the souls of [[Sovngarde]] when the latter appeared from a temporal warp known as the [[Time Wound]], after having been sent into the future during the [[Dragon War]]. |
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| + | [[File:Soulburst card art.png|thumb|200px|The Soulburst, caused by Mannimarco's treachery.]] |
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| − | The Last Dragonborn also later defeated the first Dragonborn, Miraak, in [[Apocrypha]] after dealing with Hermaeus Mora in order to weaken Mora's disruptive champion. |
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| + | As of [[2E 579]], it had been years since the last Dragonborn Emperor had ruled. Following his successful rebellion against the [[Longhouse Emperors]], [[Varen Aquilarios]] aimed to legitimize his rule through lighting the Dragonfires. Varen was not a Dragonborn, and was convinced by [[Mannimarco]] to participate in a ritual, which would end up being a trick. Instead of becoming a Dragonborn, Varen and his companions were forced to the ground, while Mannimarco corrupted the power of the Amulet of Kings to trigger the [[Soulburst]], and eventually [[Planemeld]],<ref name="Chronicles"/> until it was stopped by the [[Vestige]].<ref>Events of "[[God of Schemes]]"</ref> |
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| + | Years later, in [[2E 828]], another Dragonborn would be placed on the world. This Dragonborn being [[Tiber Septim]].<ref name="AH">''[[The Arcturian Heresy]]''</ref><ref name="PG1EC">''[[Pocket Guide to the Empire, First Edition: Cyrodiil]]''</ref> Tiber Septim would learn the Thu'um from [[Wulfharth]],<ref name="AH"/> and meet the Greybeards shortly after, who told him he was destined to unite Tamriel.<ref name="PG1EC"/> During his campaigns in Cyrodiil, he would find the Amulet of Kings during the [[Battle of Sancre Tor]] against the Nord-Breton Alliance.<ref>''[[Battle of Sancre Tor (Book)]]''</ref> After having become Emperor, Tiber Septim declared the start of the Third Era.<ref>''[[The Third Era Timeline]]''</ref> |
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| − | *[[Miraak]] – Former Dragon Priest dating back to the [[Merethic Era]] and purportedly the first Dragonborn individual. |
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| − | *[[Alessia]] – Slave queen of [[Cyrodiil]] in the [[First Era]] who made a covenant with [[Akatosh]] to create peace in Tamriel. |
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| − | *[[Reman Cyrodiil]] – Famed ruler of Cyrodiil who thwarted the [[Akaviri Invasion]] during the First Era. |
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| − | *[[Tiber Septim]] – Legendary ruler and general who united [[Tamriel]] under his banner in the [[Second Era]]. |
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| − | *[[Septim Dynasty|Septim Bloodline]] – The lineage of Tiber Septim's successors. These include [[Martin Septim]] and [[Uriel Septim VII]]. |
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| − | *[[Last Dragonborn]] – Legendary hero of prophecy who appeared in [[Tamriel]] during the [[Fourth Era]]. Also known as the Dovahkiin, and the last recorded individual to be granted the dragon blood. Renowned for defeating [[Alduin]], as well as [[Harkon]] and [[Miraak]]. |
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| − | == |
+ | ===[[Third Era]]=== |
| + | Tiber Septim's [[Septim Dynasty|dynasty]] of Dragonborn Emperors would continue to rule the Third Empire until the [[Oblivion Crisis]]. Under the reign of [[Emperor Uriel Septim VII]], the [[Mythic Dawn]] attempted to slay the Dragonborn Emperors and thus provide [[Mehrunes Dagon]] with the means to cross over into Tamriel. Uriel Septim and his three sons were assassinated,<ref>''[[Assassination!]]''</ref> with only his bastard son, [[Martin Septim]] having survived.<ref>Events of "[[Find the Heir]]"</ref> The leader of the Mythic Dawn cult, [[Mankar Camoran]], was likewise a Dragonborn, able to speak fire<ref>''[[Mythic Dawn Commentaries 1]]''</ref> and wear the Amulet of Kings.<ref>Events of {{Oblivion}}</ref> Mankar would eventually be slain in his [[Paradise]],<ref name="Paradise">Events of "[[Paradise (Quest)|Paradise]]"</ref> whereas Martin Septim would meet his end after he destroyed the Amulet of Kings in order to banish Mehrunes Dagon.<ref name="Dragonfires">Events of "[[Light the Dragonfires]]"</ref> |
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| − | *[[Mankar Camoran]] – [[Altmer (Oblivion)|Altmer]] leader of the [[Mythic Dawn]]. In the [[Mythic Dawn Commentaries 1|first volume]] of his [[Mythic Dawn Commentaries|Commentaries]], Mankar is said to be able to "speak with another tongue" and "speak fire." This, coupled with the fact that he could wear the [[Amulet of Kings]] on Tamriel, could imply that he was Dragonborn. |
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| + | |||
| − | *[[Wulfharth]] – [[High King]] of [[Skyrim]], known as "[[Ysmir]], the Dragon of the North" (a title also bestowed upon [[Tiber Septim]] and the [[Last Dragonborn]] by the [[The Greybeards]]). Alleged to have had a [[Thu'um]] so powerful he could not take his oath of office verbally, with many other legendary feats ascribed to his mastery of Shouts. Although often identified as a manifestation of the [[Shezarrine]], he is believed to have been a Dragonborn by Jarl [[Balgruuf the Greater]]. |
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| + | ===[[Fourth Era]]=== |
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| + | [[File:Alduin alternate card art.png|thumb|200px|Alduin, the World-Eater, during the Fourth Era.]] |
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| + | During [[4E 201]], the prophecy of the [[Last Dragonborn]] would come to pass. Alduin, who had been banished from Tamriel since the Merethic Era by an [[Elder Scroll]], returned to the land, indirectly helping the Last Dragonborn to escape an Imperial execution at [[Helgen]] by destroying the town.<ref>Events of "[[Unbound]]"</ref> The Last Dragonborn would learn of their nature while aiding the city of [[Whiterun]] by slaying the Dragon [[Mirmulnir]] at the [[Western Watchtower]] of Whiterun. Upon defeating the Dragon, the Dragonborn gained its soul,<ref>Events of "[[Dragon Rising]]"</ref> and through the [[Unrelenting Force (Skyrim)|Word of Power]] that the Dragonborn had learned previously in a mission of the court wizard,<ref>Events of "[[Bleak Falls Barrow (Quest)|Bleak Falls Barrow]]"</ref> was able to use the Thu'um. |
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| + | |||
| + | After learning [[Dragonrend]], the Last Dragonborn was able to face off against Alduin atop the [[Throat of the World]], winning a minor victory against the World-Eater, though Alduin did escape to Sovngarde.<ref name="Bane"/> The Dragonborn would give chase, and through the help of [[Odahviing]], they would gain access to [[Skuldafn]] and its portal to [[Sovngarde]].<ref>Events of "[[The World-Eater's Eyrie]]"</ref> In Sovngarde, the Last Dragonborn would meet up with the three Nord Tongues of old, Gormlaith, Hakon, and Felldir, and together they faced off against Alduin, defeating him in combat.<ref>Events of "[[Dragonslayer]]"</ref> It is unknown if Alduin was truly slain, as in contrast to regular Dragons, his soul was not absorbed. The leader of the Greybeards, Arngeir, believed that it may have been possible that he could return to fulfill his true destiny, though that was for the gods to decide.<ref>Dialogue with [[Arngeir]] during "[[Epilogue (Skyrim)|Epilogue]]"</ref> |
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| + | |||
| + | The First Dragonborn, Miraak, had also gained more power since his defeat by Vahlok. Upon learning of the Last Dragonborn, he had sent out cultists with the orders to defeat the Dragonborn. The Last Dragonborn would travel to [[Solstheim]], where the cultists had originated, in order to find the origin of the cultists.<ref>Events of "[[Dragonborn (Quest)|Dragonborn]]"</ref> Here, they would discover that Miraak had corrupted the [[All-Maker Stones]] in order to increase his power for his planned return. During their quest to stop Miraak, Miraak held the power to transport to the Last Dragonborn every time they slew a Dragon, and steal the Dragon's soul before the Last Dragonborn could absorb it.<ref>Events of "[[The Temple of Miraak]]"</ref> With the aid of Hermaeus Mora, the Last Dragonborn would learn the necessary powers required to defeat Miraak, primarily the [[Bend Will]] Shout.<ref>Events of "[[The Gardener of Men]]"</ref> The Last Dragonborn would travel to [[Apocrypha]] one last time to face Miraak in combat. After a long battle, Hermaeus Mora ended the conflict by slaying Miraak for his treachery, and naming the Last Dragonborn his champion.<ref name="Summit">Events of "[[At the Summit of Apocrypha]]"</ref> This was because Hermaeus Mora did not desire Miraak to be set free from his direct control, and instead wanted a more loyal servant.<ref>Dialogue with [[Hermaeus Mora (Dragonborn)|Hermaeus Mora]] during "[[The Gardener of Men]]"</ref> |
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| + | |||
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| + | *Miraak, the First Dragonborn, who lived during the Merethic Era and died in the Fourth Era following a fight with the Last Dragonborn.<ref name="Summit"/> |
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| + | *Saint Alessia, the first Dragonborn Empress, who lived during the First Era and would rule the [[Alessian Empire]] until her death in [[1E 266]].<ref>''[[The Cleansing of the Fane]]''</ref> |
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| + | *[[Wulfharth]], a Nord Dragonborn<ref>Dialogue with [[Balgruuf the Greater]] during "[[The Way of the Voice]]"</ref> who fought against the [[Direnni]] and the [[Alessian Order]] until his death in [[1E 533]].<ref>[[Wulfharth|Wulfharth's Plaque]] in [[Windhelm (Skyrim)|Windhelm]]</ref> |
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| + | *Reman Cyrodiil, an Imperial Dragonborn, who would become Emperor of the [[Reman Empire]] and adopt the Akaviri Dragonguard into his private bodyguard. He died peacefully in [[1E 2762]].<ref>Description of Reman Cyrodiil's Tomb in [[Sancre Tor (Oblivion)|Sancre Tor]]</ref> |
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| + | *Tiber Septim, a human Dragonborn, who would become the first Emperor to unite all of Tamriel under the [[Septim Empire]]. Tiber Septim died peacefully in the year [[3E 38]].<ref>''[[Brief History of the Empire, Book I]]''</ref> |
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| + | *Mankar Camoran, an [[Altmer]] Dragonborn, who attempted to give Mehrunes Dagon domination over Tamriel. He was slain in Paradise by the [[Hero of Kvatch]] in [[3E 433]].<ref name="Paradise"/> |
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| + | *Martin Septim, an [[Imperial]] Dragonborn and last of the Septim dynasty of Emperors. He sacrificed himself and the Amulet of Kings in order to beat back Mehrunes Dagon and permanently seal the gates to Oblivion in [[3E 433]].<ref name="Dragonfires"/> |
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| + | *Last Dragonborn, the Dragonborn prophesied on [[Alduin's Wall]] by the Akaviri,<ref>Dialogue with [[Esbern (Skyrim)|Esbern]] during "[[Alduin's Wall (Quest)|Alduin's Wall]]"</ref> and in the [[Elder Scrolls]],<ref>Dialogue with [[Paarthurnax (Skyrim)|Paarthurnax]] during "[[The Throat of the World]]"</ref> who was destined to defeat Alduin.<ref name="BoD"/> |
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| + | |||
| + | ==Gallery== |
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| + | <gallery> |
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| + | Young Dragonborn card art.png|A young Dragonborn. |
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| + | Martin Septim Art.png|Martin Septim, the last of the Septim Dragonborn Emperors. |
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| + | A New Era Art.png|Tiber Septim, the first of the Septim Dragonborn Emperors. |
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| + | Mankar Camoran Art.png|Mankar Camoran, the leader of the Mythic Dawn cult. |
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| + | </gallery> |
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==Trivia== |
==Trivia== |
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| − | *To address the confusion that arose from the existence of a Dragonborn predating [[Alessia]], [[Michael Kirkbride]], former writer at Bethesda, stated ''"Alessia didn't have the power to absorb dragon souls. Hers was a much more nuanced power: to dream of liberty and give it a name and on her deathbed make Covenant with the Aka-Tusk."''<ref group=" |
+ | *To address the confusion that arose from the existence of a Dragonborn predating [[Alessia]], [[Michael Kirkbride]], former writer at Bethesda, stated ''"Alessia didn't have the power to absorb dragon souls. Hers was a much more nuanced power: to dream of liberty and give it a name and on her deathbed make Covenant with the Aka-Tusk."''<ref group="UL">[http://web.archive.org/web/20160414034755/http://forums.bethsoft.com/topic/1421186-hold-on-saint-alissia-was-the-first-dragonborn-what-you-talkin-bout-beth/page-2?p=21748685 Bethsoft.com - Michael Kirkbride's forum post]</ref> |
*The [[Nerevarine]] was referred to as "Dragon-born" in [[The Lost Prophecy]], but the explanatory notes of this text claim this means they were part of the [[Septim Empire|Empire]], which is usually represented by a dragon. |
*The [[Nerevarine]] was referred to as "Dragon-born" in [[The Lost Prophecy]], but the explanatory notes of this text claim this means they were part of the [[Septim Empire|Empire]], which is usually represented by a dragon. |
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| + | *During the events of {{Skyrim|!}}, various [[Hero of Sovngarde|Heroes of Sovngarde]] will proclaim themselves to also be Dragonborn. |
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| + | ==Appearances== |
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| − | {{ |
+ | *{{Arena}} |
| + | *{{Daggerfall}} |
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| + | *{{Oblivion}} |
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| + | *{{Skyrim}} |
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| + | *{{Legends}} |
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| + | ==References== |
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| + | {{Reflist}} |
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| + | [[de:Drachenblut (Lore)]] |
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| + | [[fr:Enfant de Dragon (Lore)]] |
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| + | [[it:Dovahkiin]] |
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| + | [[no:Dovahkiin]] |
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| + | [[pl:Dovahkiin]] |
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+ | [[Category:Dragonborns| ]] |
| − | [[Category:Dragonborn]] |
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[[Category:Lore: Titles]] |
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[[Category:Tongues]] |
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Revision as of 12:43, 4 October 2020
Miraak, the First Dragonborn, in Apocrypha.
- For other uses, see Dragonborn.
Dragonborn, also referred to as Dovahkiin in the Dragon Language, are individuals with the body of a mortal, but the blood[1] and soul of a Dragon.[2][3] Some believe that Dragonborn appear on the world in times of great need by the command of the Gods.[4]
Cultural beliefs
- "Dragons have the inborn ability to learn and project their Voice. Dragons also are able to absorb the power of their slain brethren. A few mortals are born with similar abilities -- whether a gift or a curse has been a matter of debate down through the centuries. What you have already learned in a few days took even the most gifted of us years to achieve. Some believe that Dragonborn are sent into the world by the gods, at times of great need."
- ―Arngeir[src]
By Nord tradition, a Dragonborn represents what a Nord should strive to be. The Nords believe Dragonborn represent the end of all of Skyrim's foes.[5] Nord tales likewise tell of Dragonborn of old who were great and powerful Dragonslayers,[1] a belief which the Blades of the late-Fourth Era also believe to be the reason why the old Akaviri Dragonguard came to serve the Dragonborn.[6]
It is unknown as to how a Dragonborn is chosen. The various dynasties of Dragonborn Emperors led to a common belief that the Dragon blood is hereditary, though since it is a blessing of Akatosh himself it cannot be known how or why it is bestowed. It is unknown if the Dragonborn Emperors were Dragonborn, and thus able to wear the Amulet of Kings and light the Dragonfires, or if these acts were the sign of Akatosh's blessings for these individuals Dragonborn. Aside from the Dragonborn Dynasties, it is also unknown if more than one Dragonborn can exist at the same time.[1]
The Greybeards
After slaying a Dragon, and learning the meaning of a Word of Power, the Greybeards are able to sense this and summon the Dragonborn. Should a Dragonborn choose to answer the summons of the Greybeards, they are first tested to see if they truly possess the Thu'um.[7] A Dragonborn has the inborn ability to both learn and master a new Word of Power far quicker than a normal mortal can, as regular mortals usually need years of training to learn a word of power. Due to the inborn ability of Dragonborn to use the Thu'um, the Greybeards seek to guide Dragonborn in the proper usage of their power.[4]
In order to truly show a Dragonborn's abilities, the Greybeards send them off to retrieve the Horn of Jurgen Windcaller, the founder of the Greybeards.[8] Upon retrieving the Horn and returning it, the Greybeards formally name the Dragonborn "Ysmir", the "Dragon of the North", to declare the Dragonborn has accepted their guidance.[9]
History
Merethic Era
Miraak, who lived during the Dragon War of the Merethic Era, became known as the First Dragonborn.[10] The three tongues, Hakon One-Eye, Gormlaith Golden-Hilt, and Felldir the Old, who led the charge against Alduin had asked Miraak for his aid,[11] though Miraak denied, having other plans.[12] Miraak would eventually be defeated in combat by Vahlok the Jailor, though saved by Hermaeus Mora.[13]
First Era
During the First Era, the Nedic slave rebellion in Cyrodiil against the Ayleids would take place, being led by Slave Queen Alessia.[14] Alessia, being a Dragonborn,[15] was gifted the Amulet of Kings by Akatosh, which would be used to light the Dragonfires and keep the armies of Oblivion at bay.[16] Alessia's line would continue with more Dragonborn Emperors and Empresses, until their deaths.[1]
In 1E 2703, the Akaviri attempted an invasion of Tamriel, which would eventually be foiled by the efforts of Reman Cyrodiil.[17] The exact nature of the defeat of the Akaviri is unknown, though it is known that they were not seeking for combat with Reman, but were instead searching for him, as he was Dragonborn.[3][1] Under Reman Cyrodiil, the Dragon blood officially became part of becoming a legitimate Emperor, as he included the ritual geas to the Amulet of Kings,[18] and the lighting of the Dragonfires, in the rites of becoming an Emperor.[19] His dynasty would continue until the death of Juilek Cyrodiil during the Four Score War.[17]
Second Era
The Soulburst, caused by Mannimarco's treachery.
As of 2E 579, it had been years since the last Dragonborn Emperor had ruled. Following his successful rebellion against the Longhouse Emperors, Varen Aquilarios aimed to legitimize his rule through lighting the Dragonfires. Varen was not a Dragonborn, and was convinced by Mannimarco to participate in a ritual, which would end up being a trick. Instead of becoming a Dragonborn, Varen and his companions were forced to the ground, while Mannimarco corrupted the power of the Amulet of Kings to trigger the Soulburst, and eventually Planemeld,[19] until it was stopped by the Vestige.[20]
Years later, in 2E 828, another Dragonborn would be placed on the world. This Dragonborn being Tiber Septim.[21][22] Tiber Septim would learn the Thu'um from Wulfharth,[21] and meet the Greybeards shortly after, who told him he was destined to unite Tamriel.[22] During his campaigns in Cyrodiil, he would find the Amulet of Kings during the Battle of Sancre Tor against the Nord-Breton Alliance.[23] After having become Emperor, Tiber Septim declared the start of the Third Era.[24]
Third Era
Tiber Septim's dynasty of Dragonborn Emperors would continue to rule the Third Empire until the Oblivion Crisis. Under the reign of Emperor Uriel Septim VII, the Mythic Dawn attempted to slay the Dragonborn Emperors and thus provide Mehrunes Dagon with the means to cross over into Tamriel. Uriel Septim and his three sons were assassinated,[25] with only his bastard son, Martin Septim having survived.[26] The leader of the Mythic Dawn cult, Mankar Camoran, was likewise a Dragonborn, able to speak fire[27] and wear the Amulet of Kings.[28] Mankar would eventually be slain in his Paradise,[29] whereas Martin Septim would meet his end after he destroyed the Amulet of Kings in order to banish Mehrunes Dagon.[30]
Fourth Era
Alduin, the World-Eater, during the Fourth Era.
During 4E 201, the prophecy of the Last Dragonborn would come to pass. Alduin, who had been banished from Tamriel since the Merethic Era by an Elder Scroll, returned to the land, indirectly helping the Last Dragonborn to escape an Imperial execution at Helgen by destroying the town.[31] The Last Dragonborn would learn of their nature while aiding the city of Whiterun by slaying the Dragon Mirmulnir at the Western Watchtower of Whiterun. Upon defeating the Dragon, the Dragonborn gained its soul,[32] and through the Word of Power that the Dragonborn had learned previously in a mission of the court wizard,[33] was able to use the Thu'um.
After learning Dragonrend, the Last Dragonborn was able to face off against Alduin atop the Throat of the World, winning a minor victory against the World-Eater, though Alduin did escape to Sovngarde.[11] The Dragonborn would give chase, and through the help of Odahviing, they would gain access to Skuldafn and its portal to Sovngarde.[34] In Sovngarde, the Last Dragonborn would meet up with the three Nord Tongues of old, Gormlaith, Hakon, and Felldir, and together they faced off against Alduin, defeating him in combat.[35] It is unknown if Alduin was truly slain, as in contrast to regular Dragons, his soul was not absorbed. The leader of the Greybeards, Arngeir, believed that it may have been possible that he could return to fulfill his true destiny, though that was for the gods to decide.[36]
The First Dragonborn, Miraak, had also gained more power since his defeat by Vahlok. Upon learning of the Last Dragonborn, he had sent out cultists with the orders to defeat the Dragonborn. The Last Dragonborn would travel to Solstheim, where the cultists had originated, in order to find the origin of the cultists.[37] Here, they would discover that Miraak had corrupted the All-Maker Stones in order to increase his power for his planned return. During their quest to stop Miraak, Miraak held the power to transport to the Last Dragonborn every time they slew a Dragon, and steal the Dragon's soul before the Last Dragonborn could absorb it.[38] With the aid of Hermaeus Mora, the Last Dragonborn would learn the necessary powers required to defeat Miraak, primarily the Bend Will Shout.[39] The Last Dragonborn would travel to Apocrypha one last time to face Miraak in combat. After a long battle, Hermaeus Mora ended the conflict by slaying Miraak for his treachery, and naming the Last Dragonborn his champion.[40] This was because Hermaeus Mora did not desire Miraak to be set free from his direct control, and instead wanted a more loyal servant.[41]
Notable Dragonborn
- Miraak, the First Dragonborn, who lived during the Merethic Era and died in the Fourth Era following a fight with the Last Dragonborn.[40]
- Saint Alessia, the first Dragonborn Empress, who lived during the First Era and would rule the Alessian Empire until her death in 1E 266.[42]
- Wulfharth, a Nord Dragonborn[43] who fought against the Direnni and the Alessian Order until his death in 1E 533.[44]
- Reman Cyrodiil, an Imperial Dragonborn, who would become Emperor of the Reman Empire and adopt the Akaviri Dragonguard into his private bodyguard. He died peacefully in 1E 2762.[45]
- Tiber Septim, a human Dragonborn, who would become the first Emperor to unite all of Tamriel under the Septim Empire. Tiber Septim died peacefully in the year 3E 38.[46]
- Mankar Camoran, an Altmer Dragonborn, who attempted to give Mehrunes Dagon domination over Tamriel. He was slain in Paradise by the Hero of Kvatch in 3E 433.[29]
- Martin Septim, an Imperial Dragonborn and last of the Septim dynasty of Emperors. He sacrificed himself and the Amulet of Kings in order to beat back Mehrunes Dagon and permanently seal the gates to Oblivion in 3E 433.[30]
- Last Dragonborn, the Dragonborn prophesied on Alduin's Wall by the Akaviri,[47] and in the Elder Scrolls,[48] who was destined to defeat Alduin.[1]
Gallery
Trivia
- To address the confusion that arose from the existence of a Dragonborn predating Alessia, Michael Kirkbride, former writer at Bethesda, stated "Alessia didn't have the power to absorb dragon souls. Hers was a much more nuanced power: to dream of liberty and give it a name and on her deathbed make Covenant with the Aka-Tusk."[UL 1]
- The Nerevarine was referred to as "Dragon-born" in The Lost Prophecy, but the explanatory notes of this text claim this means they were part of the Empire, which is usually represented by a dragon.
- During the events of Skyrim, various Heroes of Sovngarde will proclaim themselves to also be Dragonborn.
Appearances
- The Elder Scrolls: Arena
- The Elder Scrolls II: Daggerfall
- The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion
- The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
- The Elder Scrolls: Legends
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 The Book of the Dragonborn
- ↑ Loading Screens in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim'
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 The Rise and Fall of the Blades
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 Dialogue with Arngeir during "The Way of the Voice"
- ↑ Songs of Skyrim
- ↑ Dialogue with Delphine during "Alduin's Wall"
- ↑ Events of "The Way of the Voice"
- ↑ Events of "The Horn of Jurgen Windcaller"
- ↑ Dialogue with Arngeir during "The Horn of Jurgen Windcaller"
- ↑ Dialogue with Miraak during "At the Summit of Apocrypha"
- ↑ 11.0 11.1 Events of "Alduin's Bane"
- ↑ Combat quotes of Miraak during "At the Summit of Apocrypha"
- ↑ The Guardian and the Traitor
- ↑ The Amulet of Kings
- ↑ Of the Dragonfires (Fragment)
- ↑ Trials of Saint Alessia
- ↑ 17.0 17.1 Pocket Guide to the Empire, Third Edition: Cyrodiil
- ↑ Varieties of Faith in the Empire
- ↑ 19.0 19.1 Chronicles of the Five Companions 1
- ↑ Events of "God of Schemes"
- ↑ 21.0 21.1 The Arcturian Heresy
- ↑ 22.0 22.1 Pocket Guide to the Empire, First Edition: Cyrodiil
- ↑ Battle of Sancre Tor (Book)
- ↑ The Third Era Timeline
- ↑ Assassination!
- ↑ Events of "Find the Heir"
- ↑ Mythic Dawn Commentaries 1
- ↑ Events of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion
- ↑ 29.0 29.1 Events of "Paradise"
- ↑ 30.0 30.1 Events of "Light the Dragonfires"
- ↑ Events of "Unbound"
- ↑ Events of "Dragon Rising"
- ↑ Events of "Bleak Falls Barrow"
- ↑ Events of "The World-Eater's Eyrie"
- ↑ Events of "Dragonslayer"
- ↑ Dialogue with Arngeir during "Epilogue"
- ↑ Events of "Dragonborn"
- ↑ Events of "The Temple of Miraak"
- ↑ Events of "The Gardener of Men"
- ↑ 40.0 40.1 Events of "At the Summit of Apocrypha"
- ↑ Dialogue with Hermaeus Mora during "The Gardener of Men"
- ↑ The Cleansing of the Fane
- ↑ Dialogue with Balgruuf the Greater during "The Way of the Voice"
- ↑ Wulfharth's Plaque in Windhelm
- ↑ Description of Reman Cyrodiil's Tomb in Sancre Tor
- ↑ Brief History of the Empire, Book I
- ↑ Dialogue with Esbern during "Alduin's Wall"
- ↑ Dialogue with Paarthurnax during "The Throat of the World"