Why Were Viserion and Rhaegal Not Present During the Battle in GOT S7 E04?

In Season 7 Episode 4 of Game of Thrones, Daenerys Targaryen strategically chose to deploy her largest and most aggressive dragon, Drogon, to lead the attack. This decision aligns well with the intricate battle management and the narrative focus on the devastating impact of Drogon during the fight.

Strategic Decisions

Daenerys Targaryen made a tactical decision to deploy Drogon based on the advantages it provides. Utilizing a single dragon to create maximum destruction while keeping the other two dragons, Viserion and Rhaegal, in reserve for potential future engagements is a sound strategy.

By focusing on Drogon, Daenerys could concentrate her efforts on one dragon's flight path and attack strategy, minimizing the risk of losing control over multiple dragons in a chaotic battle scenario. This singular focus allows for a more cohesive and coordinated attack, which is crucial in a high-stakes scenario.

Logistical Factors

The dragons require significant control and attention during battle. Focusing on Drogon allows Daenerys to concentrate on one dragon, ensuring optimal control and minimizing the risk of disarray. This strategic decision is further supported by the fact that, while Viserion and Rhaegal were present, they were not utilized as extensively as Drogon.

Cinematic and Narrative Reasons

Game of Thrones employs Viserion and Rhaegal in ways that align with the show's broader storytelling goals. Their absence during the pivotal battle serves multiple purposes:

Cinematic Focus: The camera could focus on Daenerys and Drogon without having to 'share the screen' with the other dragons. This allows for a focused and compelling visual representation of the battle, emphasizing the contrast between the masses of soldiers killing each other and the solitary, uniquely beautiful destruction wrought by Daenerys and her dragon. Narrative Subtext: By not sharing her perspective with Viserion and Rhaegal, Daenerys remains alone, symbolizing the ongoing challenges she faces in gaining a foothold in Westeros. This loneliness and isolation also reflect the viewer's awareness that she hasn't fully understood the big picture and the complexities of leadership and conquest. Historical and Comparative Analysis: The emphasis on the battle between Daenerys and the Lannister forces allows for a narrative comparison with the Targaryen conquests of Westeros. This juxtaposition invites viewers to reflect on whether Daenerys will mirror the history of the Targaryens, with their mixed legacy including both constructive and destructive elements.

The strategic absence of Viserion and Rhaegal during Game of Thrones' S7 E04 is thus a deliberate choice that enhances the viewing experience, supports the show's narrative, and adds layers of depth to Daenerys' character and the overarching story of Westeros.

Conclusion

Daenerys Targaryen's choice to deploy Drogon instead of Viserion and Rhaegal is a deliberate strategic and narrative decision that enhances the show's impact. It showcases her tactical prowess, manages the logistical challenges of controlling multiple dragons, and serves as a poignant symbol of her ongoing leadership struggles.

Through Game of Thrones, viewers are encouraged to ponder the broader themes of leadership, conquest, and the intricate balance of power in Westeros.