Game Of Thrones: Daenerys's Dragon Quest & Rise To Power Explained!

Prof. Chelsea Stamm 20 May 2025

Ever wondered how a young girl, sold into marriage, could rise to become one of the most formidable figures in a world of ice and fire? Daenerys Targaryen, the "Mother of Dragons," embodies a transformation of power, resilience, and ultimately, a tragic exploration of leadership's cost. Her journey, fraught with hardship and punctuated by moments of breathtaking triumph, continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Born amidst a storm, Daenerys "Stormborn" Targaryen's life begins in exile. She and her brother, Viserys, are forced to live as urchins, haunted by the legacy of their fallen house. Viserys, desperate to reclaim the Iron Throne, sees Daenerys as a tool, arranging her marriage to Khal Drogo, a powerful Dothraki warlord. This arrangement, orchestrated by Illyrio Mopatis, sets in motion a chain of events that forever alters Daenerys's destiny.

Category	Information
Full Name	Daenerys Targaryen
Also Known As	Daenerys Stormborn, Dany, Khaleesi, Mother of Dragons, Breaker of Chains, Mhysa
Title(s)	Queen of Meereen (formerly), Khaleesi of the Great Grass Sea, Queen of the Andals and the First Men, Protector of the Seven Kingdoms (claimant)
House	Targaryen
Born	During a storm on Dragonstone (hence "Stormborn")
Family	Father: Aerys II Targaryen (The Mad King) Mother: Rhaella Targaryen Brother: Viserys Targaryen Nephew: Jon Snow (Aegon Targaryen)
Spouse(s)	Khal Drogo (deceased), Hizdahr zo Loraq (marriage annulled)
Character Traits	Resilient, compassionate (initially), determined, increasingly ruthless
Key Achievements	Hatching three dragons Freeing slaves in Slaver's Bay Building a powerful army
Major Conflicts	War for the Iron Throne Conflicts in Slaver's Bay
Skills & Abilities	Leadership Strategic thinking Dragon riding
Portrayed By	Emilia Clarke
First Appearance (Book)	A Game of Thrones (1996)
First Appearance (TV)	Game of Thrones, Season 1 (2011)
Reference	A Wiki of Ice and Fire