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Drow Explained: D&D's Dark Elves
Discover the drow, the infamous dark elves from Dungeons & Dragons. Explore their matriarchal society, their goddess Lolth, and the Underdark.
What is it?
The drow, or dark elves, are a popular fictional race from the Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) universe. Traditionally depicted with dark skin and stark white hair, they inhabit the Underdark, a vast subterranean realm. Drow society is famously matriarchal and ruthless, organized into noble houses that constantly scheme for power under the watchful eyes of their cruel spider-goddess, Lolth. While most are considered evil, notable exceptions like the heroic ranger Drizzt Do'Urden have challenged this stereotype, creating a complex and fascinating culture.
Why is it trending?
Drow are trending due to their significant role in recent popular media, most notably the critically acclaimed video game Baldur's Gate 3. The game allows players to create drow characters and features them prominently in its narrative, exposing a new generation to their intricate lore. Their long-standing popularity in D&D campaigns and the beloved fantasy novels by R.A. Salvatore also ensures they remain a constant topic of discussion among fantasy and gaming enthusiasts.
How does it affect people?
For gamers and fantasy fans, the drow offer rich roleplaying possibilities. Playing as a drow can mean navigating complex social intrigue, grappling with an evil heritage, or choosing a path of rebellion. Their lore adds a layer of depth and moral ambiguity to game worlds, forcing players to confront prejudice and challenging simple notions of good versus evil. This complex background allows for compelling character arcs and enriches the collective storytelling experience in games like D&D and Baldur's Gate 3.