The world of The Witcher features many compelling characters. One such character is the powerful mage Yennefer of Vengerberg (Anya Chalotra). In season 1 of The Witcher, fans get to know Yennefer on a deep level. Viewers see her backstory, which is definitely the right decision. Of course, The Witcher is an adaptation based on Andrzej Sapkowski's books. The books also inspired the hit video game series.
In the books, though, fans only meet Yennefer from Geralt's perspective. The show, however, took a different tactic. It introduced Geralt of Rivia (Henry Cavill) and Ciri of Cintra (Freya Allan) at the same time as Yennefer. Doing so resulted in a confusing timeline, but it worked out as it allowed the three compelling protagonists to be introduced at the same time.
Viewers witness Yennefer's rise to power and her deciding to turn her back on all of her power and influence. Fans watch Yennefer meet Geralt, fall for him, and watch as she tries to undo her choice to be sterile. They see as Yennefer meets Geralt again, and he loses her affection. Fans witness Yennefer's bravery at the Battle of Sodden. Yennefer's story is definitely intriguing. However, that doesn't mean there isn't room for improvement.
During season 1, Yennefer's story primarily focuses on her feelings for Geralt and her desire to leave behind a legacy in the form of a child. While both of these feelings are understandable, this might lead some fans to wonder: does Yennefer's story so far fit her character, or does she deserve more? Of course, opinions will differ among fans. Yet, there might be an answer to this question.
The WitcherSeason 1 had a tough job to do. It had to introduce audiences to a new world with new characters. And Yennefer is one of those characters. It's difficult, for sure, to develop three characters equally. Things are bound to slip through the cracks. So those fans who feel Yennefer's story could be a bit better could be forgiven for thinking so. However, it's a lot more complicated than that. As things often are, especially with The Witcher. Yennefer's story does fit her character so far. However, she also deserves more.
How can it be both? Well, don't worry, there's an explanation. The WitcherSeason 1 is great at what it does. All three protagonists are given well-written story arcs that explain how they became who they are. So, therefore, fans understand why, for example, Yennefer resents her decision being taken from her. Although she freely chose to become a mage, to become sterile, at the time, she didn't realize what she was giving up. Many fans can likely relate to that. Yennefer's story, therefore, does fit her character. It makes sense that a powerful woman like Yennefer would dislike being forced to do anything. Or, in this case, to not do something, to not have a child of her own.
Yennefer's story arc does fit her character. However, Yennefer also deserves more than to be solely defined by her relationships with others. Whether it's a corny kiss scene with Geralt or her almost obsessive desire to regain her fertility, Yennefer deserves to stand on her own. To exist independently of her relationships with Geralt or even Ciri or anyone else for that matter. However, this is probably likely to happen in season 2 of The Witcher. Yennefer might need to depend on herself for a while, and perhaps that will give fans who feel she deserves more what they want. Her character will not be seen solely in relation to other characters but as an independent protagonist in her own right. And that will be worth all of the build-up for fans.
If her storyline at the end of season 1 is any indication, Yennefer is a brave, strong, powerful woman. Some fans just might want to see more of that side of her. Of course, not every fan will agree with this assessment of Yennefer's story. Some fans of The Witcher will be more on one side or another. Some will believe that her arc completely fits her character, while others will feel that she absolutely deserves more. However, nothing about The Witcher is simple, which is just how many fans like it. The story is complex and can be seen in different ways. And Yennefer is a complicated character. So seemingly conflicting truths can both be valid for the world of The Witcher and its inhabitants, such as Yennefer.Â
However, a lot of credit should go to the writers of The WitcherSeason 1 for taking Yennefer and giving her a well-written story arc. For making her understandable to viewers, not confusing or strange. If The Witcher season 2 gives fans more independent Yennefer moments –and it might – it has the potential to be even better than season 1. And that's definitely impressive. Most fans would probably agree with that.