The world of fantasy literature is rife with mythical creatures, and one such creature that has captured the imagination of many is the Meraxes Gigas. This enormous beast, often compared to a dinosaur in size, originates from George R.R. Martin’s “Game of Thrones” series. However, just how big was the Meraxes Gigas? Let’s delve into this question.
Introduction to Meraxes Gigas
Meraxes Gigas, more commonly known as Meraxes, is a dragon from the popular “Game of Thrones” series. It was ridden by Queen Rhaenys Targaryen during the War of Conquest. The name ‘Meraxes’ itself carries a certain weight and power, reflecting the imposing stature and strength of this mythical creature.
While Meraxes Gigas is not a real creature, its size has been a topic of much debate among fans. Many have tried to estimate the size of Meraxes based on descriptions provided in the books and comparing it to real-world creatures like dinosaurs.
Estimating the Size of Meraxes Gigas
In the books, Meraxes is described as being colossal, capable of swallowing horses whole. While there are no exact measurements given, we can make educated guesses based on these descriptions. For instance, if we consider that the average horse is about 2.5 meters long, and assuming that Meraxes could swallow such a creature whole, we can begin to imagine the immense size of this dragon.
When considering the size of Meraxes Gigas, it’s also useful to compare it to other dragons within the “Game of Thrones” universe. Balerion, another dragon from the same series, was described as the largest of all, with Meraxes being slightly smaller. If we consider that Balerion was large enough to swallow an aurochs (a type of large wild cattle) or even a mammoth whole, it gives us a clearer picture of just how big Meraxes must have been.
Meraxes Gigas vs T-Rex
One common comparison made by fans is between Meraxes Gigas and the Tyrannosaurus Rex, one of the largest carnivorous dinosaurs. The T-Rex, which stood at about 12 to 20 feet tall at the hips and measured up to 40 feet long, was one of the most formidable predators of its time. However, based on descriptions from the books, it’s likely that Meraxes Gigas would dwarf even this giant dinosaur.
The Skull of Meraxes
The skull of Meraxes is another point of reference when trying to determine its size. In the “Game of Thrones” series, dragon skulls are kept in the Red Keep, and the skull of Meraxes is noted as being particularly large. While no exact dimensions are given, it’s clear that the skull alone would be larger than many full-grown animals.
Conclusion
While we may never know the exact size of Meraxes Gigas, we can safely say that it was a creature of immense proportions, likely surpassing even the largest dinosaurs in size. Its size, coupled with its fiery breath and fearsome reputation, made Meraxes a truly formidable beast in the “Game of Thrones” universe.
Whether you’re a fan of “Game of Thrones,” interested in mythical creatures, or simply fascinated by the idea of such colossal beasts, the size and power of Meraxes Gigas are sure to capture your imagination. It’s a testament to the power of literature and fantasy to create creatures that, while not real, feel incredibly lifelike and impactful.
So, how big was Meraxes Gigas? The answer is: bigger than you can probably imagine.