Oberyn Martell
| Character | |
|---|---|
| Name: | Oberyn Martell |
| Occupation: | |
| Relationships: | Ellaria Sand (paramour), Obara Sand (daughter), Nymeria Sand (daughter), Tyene Sand (daughter), Sarella Sand (daughter), Elia Sand (daughter), Obella Sand (daughter), Dorea Sand (daughter), Loreza Sand (daughter), Doran Martell (brother), Elia Martell (deceased),Arianne Martell (niece), Quentyn Martell (nephew) |
| Fandom: | A Song of Ice and Fire, Game of Thrones |
| Other: | played by Pedro Pascal |
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Oberyn Martell, also known as the Red Viper of Dorne, is a fictional character from A Song of Ice and Fire. He is played by Pedro Pascal on the HBO TV series Game of Thrones.
Canon
Oberyn Martell is a Prince of Dorne. His sister, Elia Martell, was married to Rhaegar Targayen. She and her children were killed by Gregor Clegane, a knight in the service of Tywin Lannister, during Robert's Rebellion. As consequence, Oberyn Martell holds a significant grudge against both Clegane and House Lannister.
Oberyn Martell and his paramour Ellaria Sand arrive in King's Landing for the wedding between Joffrey Baratheon and Margaery Tyrell. When Tyrion Lannister is charged of killing Joffrey Baratheon, Oberyn Martell agrees to serve as Tyrion's champion in trial by combat so that he may fight Gregor Clegane and demand justice for his sister. However, Clegane crushes his skull and kills him instead, although Clegane later succumbs to injuries from a poisoned spear.
Fandom
Oberyn Martell is a popular character among fans, with many considering him their favorite. The casting of Pedro Pascal as Oberyn is widely regarded as a great choice, and his portrayal of the character has been well-received. There are several reasons he is generally well liked, including his charismatic personality, quick wit, and sharp tongue. He is also a skilled warrior and dancer, and his Dornish open-mindedness about sex and relationships adds to his distinctive character. Many fans sympathize with Oberyn's desire for justice for his sister against a widely hated character such as Gregor Clegane and mourned his death.[1][2]
Pairings
- Oberyn Martell/Ellaria Sand - canonical and most popular pairing
- Oberyn Martell/Willas Tyrell
- Oberyn Martell/Sansa Stark
Common Tropes in Fanworks
- Canon Divergence AU: Some examples include Oberyn Martell surviving the fight against Gregor Clegane; Elia Martell marrying a different spouse instead of Rhaegar Targaryen and Oberyn's response; Elia Martell surviving Robert's Rebellion and seeking asylum with her brothers.
- Oberyn Martell makes an Arranged Marriage: Oberyn Martell marries as part of a political alliance. Common potential spouses include Sansa Stark, Daenerys Targaryen, or Cersei Lannister. Ellaria Sand may or may not be part of this relationship; if she is, the story focuses on how a new spouse might interact with her.
- Pastfic: This may explore his relationships with his sister and other family members.