Loghain

Loghain Mac Tir is a prominent character in the Dragon Age franchise, primarily featured in Dragon Age: Origins. He is a high-ranking military commander and nobleman of Ferelden.

Role in Dragon Age: Origins

Loghain serves as King Cailan Theirin's most trusted general and advisor. He is a veteran of numerous battles, including the Fereldan Rebellion against Orlais, where he played a crucial role in liberating Ferelden. At the start of Dragon Age: Origins, he commands the Fereldan forces at the Battle of Ostagar against the Darkspawn horde.

During the Battle of Ostagar, Loghain makes the controversial decision to withdraw his troops, leaving King Cailan and the Grey Wardens to face the Darkspawn onslaught alone. This act leads to the deaths of King Cailan and the majority of the Grey Wardens stationed in Ferelden.

Following the Battle of Ostagar, Loghain declares himself Regent of Ferelden, claiming that King Cailan's death necessitates strong leadership. He consolidates power, using propaganda and force to maintain control. He persecutes the remaining Grey Wardens, branding them as traitors for their alleged involvement in the king's death.

Character and Motivation

Loghain is portrayed as a complex and pragmatic individual. His actions are often driven by a deep love for Ferelden and a fierce desire to protect it from external threats, particularly Orlais. His distrust of foreign powers, stemming from the occupation of Ferelden by Orlais during his youth, heavily influences his decisions. He believes that allowing Orlesian influence back into Ferelden, through Cailan's marriage to Empress Celene's niece, would weaken the country and ultimately lead to its subjugation once again.

While his actions are presented as necessary for Ferelden's survival, his methods are often ruthless and morally questionable. He is willing to sacrifice individuals and compromise his own principles to achieve his goals. This creates significant conflict and ultimately positions him as an antagonist in Dragon Age: Origins.

Possible Outcomes

Depending on player choices in Dragon Age: Origins, Loghain's fate can vary significantly. He can be defeated in single combat and either executed, exiled, or, under certain circumstances, recruited into the Grey Wardens to atone for his actions. If recruited, he sacrifices himself to defeat the Archdemon at the end of the game if the player chooses to spare Alistair.

Legacy

Loghain's legacy within Ferelden is complicated. Some view him as a hero who saved Ferelden from Orlesian domination and the Darkspawn, while others see him as a traitor who murdered their king and plunged the country into chaos. Regardless of perspective, his actions have a profound and lasting impact on the political landscape of Ferelden and the events of the Dragon Age universe.