Do the Thalmor Want the Stormcloaks to Win?
In the rich and complex world of Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, the conflict between the Thalmor and the Stormcloaks is a central narrative thread. The question of whether the Thalmor, a powerful and secretive order of mages, desires the Stormcloaks, a group of rebels fighting for independence from the Empire, to win is a topic of much debate among players and fans. This article delves into the motivations and strategies of both factions to shed light on this intriguing question.
The Thalmor, known for their cunning and ruthless tactics, have a clear agenda: to maintain control over the lands they govern. As a result, their primary goal is not necessarily to see the Stormcloaks win, but rather to ensure that the Empire remains in power. The Thalmor’s influence over the Empire is significant, and they have a vested interest in preventing any rebellion that could threaten their hold on power.
One reason the Thalmor may not want the Stormcloaks to win is their reliance on the Empire for resources and support. The Thalmor’s power is built on a foundation of political and military might, which is largely provided by the Empire. If the Stormcloaks were to succeed in their quest for independence, the Thalmor would lose their primary source of support and influence.
Moreover, the Thalmor are skilled manipulators and strategists. They understand that a direct confrontation with the Stormcloaks could lead to a costly and potentially devastating war. By keeping the Stormcloaks in a state of constant conflict with the Empire, the Thalmor can maintain their position of power while avoiding a direct battle that could weaken their hold on the region.
On the other hand, the Stormcloaks have their own motivations for seeking independence. They are fighting for the freedom of their people and the chance to govern themselves without the oppressive rule of the Empire. The Stormcloaks’ cause is one of justice and self-determination, and they are willing to fight tooth and nail to achieve their goals.
Despite the Thalmor’s desire to maintain the status quo, there are instances where their actions may seem to benefit the Stormcloaks. For example, the Thalmor’s use of dark magic and their brutal tactics against the Stormcloaks have led to a growing resentment among the people. This has inadvertently bolstered the Stormcloaks’ cause and may have contributed to their rise in popularity.
In conclusion, while the Thalmor do not want the Stormcloaks to win in the traditional sense, their actions and strategies have inadvertently helped the Stormcloaks’ cause. The Thalmor’s reliance on the Empire, their desire to avoid a costly war, and their use of dark magic have all played a role in the ongoing conflict between the two factions. The true answer to the question of whether the Thalmor want the Stormcloaks to win lies in the complex interplay of politics, power, and the will of the people.
