Dragon Priests EXPLAINED! - Leaders of the Dragon Cult - Elder Scrolls Lore

Summary

This video script delves into the lore of the Dragon Priests in the Elder Scrolls series, detailing their rise as rulers during the Maratha Kara era and their fall to undead draaga. The script explores their connection to dragons, the significance of their masks, and the stories of individual priests like Otar, Hefner Axe, and Miraak. It also touches on the Dragon Cult's influence and the priests' roles in Skyrim's history, concluding with their resurgence in the fourth era.

Takeaways

• 🐉 The Dragon Priests were once powerful figures in Skyrim, ruling under the dragons and leading the Dragon Cult of the Maratha Kara.
• 👑 They were anointed with gifts from dragons, including knowledge, power, and iconic masks, symbolizing their status and authority.
• 🏰 In the ancient capital of Broman Jar, the Dragon Cult was a major seat of power, with priests overseeing governance and order.
• 🗡️ The Dragon War saw a drastic reduction in the numbers of dragons and their priests, leading to the decline of the Dragon Cult.
• 💀 The remaining Dragon Priests became undead draaga, existing in remote tombs and ruins, waiting for the return of Alduin.
• 🎭 The masks of the Dragon Priests are unique, made from various materials, and grant different boons to the wearer, reflecting their past roles.
• 🔮 Some Dragon Priests, like Mora Chi, were known for their magical prowess, with masks that enhance magical abilities.
• 🛡️ The masks also have names, often shared with the priests who wear them, indicating a deep connection to their identity and role in the cult.
• 🏹 Dragon Priests like Crosa, known for his sorrowful name, were skilled hunters and warriors before becoming part of the Dragon Cult.
• 🌊 The masks' enchantments are diverse, offering a range of benefits from elemental resistance to enhanced abilities in various skills.
• 🎭 The story of the Dragon Priests is deeply intertwined with the history of Skyrim, reflecting the long-standing influence of the Dragon Cult.

Q & A

Who were the Dragon Priests in the context of the Elder Scrolls series?

The Dragon Priests were anointed priests who ruled over the people of Skyrim during the time when dragons dominated the land. They were bestowed with the gifts of dragons, including knowledge, power, and the iconic Dragon Priest masks.

What is the significance of the Dragon Priest Masks?

The Dragon Priest Masks were iconic symbols of the priests' power and authority, made from various materials and often named after the priests themselves. They granted the wearer special abilities and were a key part of the priests' identity and role within the Dragon Cult.

What was the role of the Dragon Priests during the Maratha Kara era?

During the Maratha Kara era, the Dragon Priests were responsible for ensuring order and worship among the populace. They were installed by the dragons to oversee governance and subjugate the people of Skyrim, constructing monuments in honor of the dragons and their rule.

How did the Dragon War impact the Dragon Priests and their cult?

The Dragon War drastically reduced the numbers of both dragons and their priests. After the rebellion of men and the casting forward of Alduin in time, the power of dragons waned, and the Dragon Cult was driven to near extinction, with the remaining priests and followers existing as undead draaga in remote tombs and ruins.

What is the significance of the ritual that the entombed Dragon Priests performed?

The ritual involved the lesser draaga praying around the priests' sarcophagus daily, offering their life force to sustain the priests into the fourth era. This allowed the priests to continue their worship in death and be ready for Alduin's return.

What is the story behind the Dragon Priest Otar the Mad?

Otar the Mad was once a Nordic chieftain who was driven mad by mysterious forces, likely the work of the Dragon Cult. He became a priest and subjected his people to oppressive rule. Two heroes, Torsten and Saric, attempted to slay him but were unsuccessful, instead locking him away in a sarcophagus sealed with two keys.

What is the connection between the Dragon Priests and the island of Solstheim?

The Dragon Priests have a significant presence on Solstheim, where they were constructed to honor those in power or to house their followers in death. The island also features the story of Azor, a Dragon Priest who turned to the Daedric Prince Mephala and was involved in a legendary battle with Volokh.

How did the Dragon Priests' allegiance shift over time?

Some Dragon Priests, like Azor, Miraak, and Durak, eventually turned away from the dragons and allied with the Daedric Prince Mephala. This shift in allegiance was marked by changes in their masks and a betrayal of the Dragon Cult's original purpose.

What is the significance of the wooden mask found in Labyrinthian?

The wooden mask is a mysterious artifact that, when worn, transports the wearer through time to the Broman Jos sanctuary in Labyrinthian. It is associated with the highest-ranking priests and suggests a leadership structure within the Dragon Cult.

How do the Dragon Priests in the Elder Scrolls Online differ from those in Skyrim?

In the Elder Scrolls Online, which is set in the second era, the Dragon Priests have been awakened by means other than Alduin's call. They often have unique stories and locations, and some, like Zom the Scale, have distinct backgrounds and roles within the Dragon Cult.