What was wrong with Viserys Targaryen? This question has intrigued fans of George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” series for years. Viserys, the younger brother of Daenerys Targaryen, is often criticized for his character flaws and poor decisions. This article delves into the reasons behind Viserys’ shortcomings and examines how they contribute to his downfall in the series.
Viserys Targaryen, the son of King Aerys II Targaryen and Rhaella Targaryen, is introduced as a young and ambitious prince in the series. However, his character is marred by several flaws that ultimately lead to his demise. One of the most significant issues with Viserys is his overconfidence and lack of humility. Throughout the series, Viserys repeatedly boasts about his Targaryen heritage and his right to the Iron Throne, often to the detriment of his relationships with others.
Another problem with Viserys is his obsession with finding a wife who can secure the Iron Throne for his family. This obsession blinds him to the true nature of his potential brides and causes him to make poor decisions. His marriage to Elia Martell, for instance, is driven by political convenience rather than genuine affection, which leads to a marriage that is doomed from the start.
Viserys’ lack of empathy and understanding of human emotions also contributes to his downfall. He treats his wife and sister as mere pawns in his quest for power, without considering their feelings or well-being. This cold-hearted approach alienates those around him and makes it difficult for him to form meaningful relationships.
Moreover, Viserys’ reliance on the Red Viper, Oberyn Martell, to win the throne for him is another significant flaw. Oberyn is a skilled swordsman and a cunning strategist, but Viserys’ over-reliance on him leads to a series of poor decisions. Oberyn’s death at the hands of the Mountain during the tourney at Harrenhal is a turning point for Viserys, as he realizes that he cannot achieve his goals without taking matters into his own hands.
Viserys’ lack of leadership and inability to adapt to changing circumstances also contribute to his downfall. When he is crowned king, he struggles to govern effectively and is easily manipulated by his advisors. His failure to unite the Seven Kingdoms and his inability to deal with the growing threat from the North and the rising power of the Lannisters ultimately lead to his assassination by Khal Drogo.
In conclusion, what was wrong with Viserys Targaryen was a combination of his overconfidence, lack of empathy, poor decision-making, and inability to adapt. These flaws, along with his obsession with power and his reliance on others, contribute to his downfall in the series. While some may argue that he is simply a product of his environment, his character flaws are undeniable and serve as a cautionary tale for those who seek power at any cost.
