Why People Hated Daenerys Targaryen and Called Her the Mad Queen: Analyzing Her Actions and Reactions Compared to Cersei Lannister

The contrasting reactions to Daenerys Targaryen and Cersei Lannister in Game of Thrones can be attributed to several factors including character development, audience expectations, and the nature of their actions. This article delves into these aspects and provides insights into why one leader is vilified while the other is seen as a consistent antagonist.

Daenerys Targaryen’s Character Arc

Character Arc: Daenerys Targaryen begins as a sympathetic character, often portrayed as a liberator. Her transformation into a more ruthless leader culminates in the events of Destructive Actions. Initially, she is seen as a benevolent ruler, advocating for rights and justice for the oppressed. However, her actions in these pivotal moments lead to a significant shift in public perception.

Bending the Knee

Bending the Knee: Daenerys’s ultimatum to the Tarlys to bend the knee or face death also contributes to the view of her as tyrannical. While she does offer them a choice, her willingness to resort to violence for non-compliance feels heavy-handed and authoritarian. This is especially jarring given the historical context of her family's legacy, which has been marked by madness and tyranny. The audience's disappointment is palpable when their earlier hopes for a kind and fair ruler are dashed.

Cersei Lannister: A Established Villain

Established Villain: Cersei Lannister is portrayed throughout the series as a cunning and ruthless antagonist. Her actions, including the destruction of the Great Sept of Baelor, are consistent with her character. Audiences expect her to act immorally, and therefore, her actions are often seen as fitting for her villainous persona.

Motivation and Justification

Motivation and Justification: Cersei’s motivations are often framed as protective—she seeks power for her family and revenge against those who wronged her. The explosion of the Great Sept of Baelor, while horrific, is depicted as a calculated move in a larger political game. Some viewers find this understandable within the context of her character. Additionally, Cersei’s actions fit neatly into the narrative of brutal Westeros politics, where violence and betrayal are commonplace.

Narrative Framing

Narrative Framing: The series often frames Cersei's actions as part of the brutal politics of Westeros. In contrast, Daenerys’s violent turn feels like a betrayal of her earlier ideals. This decisive change in character results in a stronger backlash from fans who hoped for her to embody a different kind of ruler. The narrative expectations set by Game of Thrones contribute to the polarized reactions to both characters.

Conclusion

The differing reactions ultimately stem from the narrative expectations set by the character arcs and the moral implications of their actions. Daenerys’s fall from grace feels more jarring because it contradicts her established principles, while Cersei's villainy is anticipated and consistent with her character throughout the series. The complexity of each character, combined with the intricate political landscape of Westeros, results in nuanced and often contradictory audience reactions.

Key Takeaways:

Daenerys Targaryen: Sympathetic to Ruthless Cersei Lannister: Ruthless and Antagonistic Historical Context Matters: Legacy of Madness vs. Expected Villainy Political Landscape: Consistency in Brutality vs. Shocking Violations of Principle

Understanding these factors helps explain why audiences react so differently to both Daenerys and Cersei, making each character a compelling and complex figure in the annals of Game of Thrones lore.