The Significance of Iroh's Last Airbender Nickname: Unveiling the Dragon Of The West Meaning and Foreshadowing
Discover the importance of Iroh's nickname and its impact on his character development in the Last Airbender series.
Warning! This article contains spoilers for Netflix's Avatar: The Last Airbender.
In Netflix's Avatar: The Last Airbender, Uncle Iroh is known as the Dragon of the West, a name that carries significant meaning for his character. Throughout season 1 of the show, Iroh is portrayed as a key figure in the story, much like in the original animated series. He is instrumental in introducing elements such as The Last Airbender's Fifth Nation and plays a crucial role in Zuko's tragic backstory.
Netflix’s The Last Airbender Episode 2 Calls Iroh The Dragon Of the West
As of The Last Airbender season 1's ending, Iroh and Zuko are labeled as traitors to the Fire Nation for opposing Admiral Zhao. This sets the stage for their storyline in season 2. However, this is not the only hint about what's to come for Iroh. In Netflix's The Last Airbender season 1, episode 2, Zhao refers to Iroh as the Dragon of the West, sparking curiosity about the significance of this nickname in Iroh's past and what it may foreshadow for his future.
Iroh in his character poster for Netflix's Avatar: The Last Airbender either side of Aang and Zhao - Netflix’s The Last Airbender Episode 2 Calls Iroh The Dragon Of The West
Custom Image made by Lewis Glazebrook
When Zuko and Iroh met Zhao for the first time, the Commander expressed his honor at having the renowned Dragon of the West in his presence. In the show Avatar: The Last Airbender on Netflix, the significance of this nickname is not explained. However, in the world of The Last Airbender, this title commands great respect from Fire Nation soldiers and is earned through a specific and brutal method.
The title of "Dragon" is reserved for those who have successfully defeated one of these mythical creatures. In the past, dragons were more common in The Last Airbender's world until Fire Lord Sozin started hunting them for sport. The title was bestowed upon those who managed to kill a dragon, symbolizing their strength and power. This suggests that Iroh may have slain a dragon in the past to earn his title, shedding light on his history as a loyal servant of the Fire Nation.
Iroh’s Last Airbender Nickname Sets Up Two Future Avatar Moments
Uncle Iroh looking worried at Zuko from Avatar the last airbender Paul Sun-Hyung Lee as Uncle Iroh - Iroh’s Last Airbender Nickname Sets Up Two Future Avatar Moments
Iroh, also known as the Dragon of the West, will have a significant moment in Netflix's The Last Airbender season 2. This moment is expected to occur towards the end of the season, similar to the original show's Book Two: Earth. In this scene, Iroh will question a group of Earth Kingdom agents about the reason behind his nickname before surprising them by breathing fire and making his escape.
Please note that the following paragraphs contain spoilers for the original Avatar: The Last Airbender animated show.
In Book Three: Fire, Zuko and Aang visit the Sun Warriors to learn about Firebending. They meet Ran and Shaw, the last dragons, who approve of them. These dragons were last seen by Iroh, who also earned their approval.
Surprisingly, Iroh lied to the Fire Lord, claiming he killed the dragons for his title. In truth, he protected them, gaining their knowledge and the title Dragon of the West. This shows Iroh values ancient beings over Fire Nation customs, proving his moral goodness in Avatar: The Last Airbender.
All episodes of Avatar: The Last Airbender season 1 are now streaming on Netflix.
Editor's P/S:
The article delves into the intriguing nickname bestowed upon Uncle Iroh, "The Dragon of the West," in Netflix's adaptation of "Avatar: The Last Airbender." The exploration of the title's significance and its connection to Iroh's past is captivating. The article raises intriguing questions about Iroh's history and his true nature, hinting at a complex and redemptive character arc that unfolds throughout the series.
The revelation that Iroh's title may stem from his encounter with a dragon adds a layer of mystery and mystique to his character. The article skillfully connects this potential backstory to the broader themes of the show, highlighting Iroh's unwavering loyalty to ancient beings and his defiance of Fire Nation customs. It leaves readers eager to witness how Iroh's past shapes his actions and relationships in the upcoming seasons of the Netflix adaptation.
