Unfair Treatment of Daenerys: A Case of Double Standards in Literature and Society

Daenerys Targaryen, the protagonist from the popular series A Song of Ice and Fire, has been a subject of intense debate and scrutiny. Her rise to power and her flaws have led to a significant amount of irrational hate and criticism from readers. This article delves into why Daenerys faces double standards and explores the underlying socio-cultural issues.

Double Standards and Gender Stereotypes

The hatred and criticism faced by Daenerys can be attributed to age-old gender stereotypes and societal norms. Daenerys embodies power and leadership, which fundamentally challenges the traditional gender inequality. Many find it difficult to reconcile the notion of a female wielding immense power and making difficult decisions. In a culture where women have historically been portrayed as dependent and weak, any instance of female power is met with skepticism and hostility.

The belief that females are physically and mentally weaker than men is deeply entrenched. This stereotype is often used to justify why certain actions and behaviors of Daenerys might be seen as excusable in a male character but not in her. For instance, the Protector of the Realm, a position Daenerys assumes, is seen by some as an inappropriate or even unmanly role for a woman to fill. This line of thought is misguided and fails to acknowledge the fundamental qualities of a leader, such as wisdom, courage, and moral fiber, which are not gender-specific.

Daenerys as a Tragic Hero

It is argued that Daenerys is often interpreted as a tragic hero in the Aristotelian sense. Aristotle defined a tragic hero as a character with heroic traits and virtues, who nevertheless makes mistakes that lead to their downfall. Daenerys fits this description perfectly. She is a complex character with many strengths, including wisdom, compassion, and a fierce determination. However, she also possesses flaws such as haste and intolerance, which ultimately lead to her downfall.

Daenerys' journey is a powerful example of a tragic hero. She starts with noble intentions to protect the innocent and restore justice, but her methods and freedom for others often result in unintended consequences. Her ultimate defeat is a tragic end, but it highlights her ultimate moral authenticity and the complexity of her character. This complexity is often lost on those who view her solely through a heroic lens.

The Importance of Context and Perspective

The unfair treatment of Daenerys is a reflection of the double standards we see in real life. In literature, female protagonists who challenge the status quo are often more subject to criticism than their male counterparts. This is not to say that male characters do not face criticism, but the criteria for that criticism is often more lenient. Daenerys' actions, though often criticized, are groundbreaking for a female character. She takes on roles traditionally reserved for men and does so with a moral compass that is often missing in male characters who take similar roles.

Additionally, the notion that one must be invincible or mistake-free to be a hero is unrealistic and unfair. Daenerys, like any other character with flaws, demonstrates that leadership often requires compromise and sacrifice. Her mistakes, even if they are not always excused, are part of her journey and growth as a character. The criticism she faces is more a result of her breaking traditional gender norms and less about the inherent flaws of her character.

Conclusion

Daenerys Targaryen's story is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by female leaders and the double standards that exist in society and literature. While it is understandable that a character with such a complex arc might face criticism, the portrayal of Daenerys often falls short when compared to the standards applied to male protagonists. Her story, however, is a powerful illustration of the tragic hero archetype and a testament to the strength and resilience of a woman who challenges the status quo.