Game
Dragonborn: Who is Skyrim's Hero?
Discover the lore behind the Dragonborn, the mortal with a dragon's soul from The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. Learn about their powers and destiny.
What is it?
A Dragonborn, or "Dovahkiin" in the dragon tongue, is a rare mortal born with the soul of a dragon. This unique heritage grants them an innate ability to use the Thu'um, or dragon shouts, powerful magical abilities projected through their voice. According to the lore of The Elder Scrolls, this blessing was originally bestowed by the dragon god of time, Akatosh. While others must study for years to master a single shout, a Dragonborn can absorb the soul of a slain dragon to instantly learn and master their shouts. This makes them the ultimate dragon slayers in the world of Tamriel.
Why is it trending?
The concept of the Dragonborn achieved massive popularity with the release of the landmark 2011 video game, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. In the game, the player character is revealed to be the "Last Dragonborn," a figure of prophecy destined to stop the return of Alduin the World-Eater, a malevolent dragon god. The game's central story revolves around this destiny, and its iconic "Fus Ro Dah" shout became a widespread internet meme. The enduring popularity of Skyrim through numerous re-releases and a dedicated modding community keeps the Dragonborn firmly in the gaming spotlight.
How does it affect people?
For players, the Dragonborn identity is a powerful and empowering fantasy. It immediately establishes the player as a special, central figure in the game's world, not just another adventurer. This sense of destiny and unique power shapes the entire gameplay experience, making the narrative feel personal and epic. Wielding the Thu'um allows for unique combat and exploration solutions, making players feel like a legendary hero from the stories. The Dragonborn concept is core to what makes the Skyrim experience so compelling and memorable for millions of fans worldwide.