When fans think about Dragon Age II, one name stands out above all: Hawke, the Champion of Kirkwall. As the customizable protagonist of BioWare’s beloved RPG, Hawke’s story continues to fascinate players around the globe. More than just a character, Hawke represents resilience, leadership, and moral ambiguity in a world torn apart by political strife, magic, and war.
In the world of Thedas, Hawke’s journey is shaped by tragedy, loss, and the choices players make throughout the game. From humble beginnings as a refugee escaping the destruction of Lothering, Hawke rises to power in the turbulent city of Kirkwall. This meteoric rise sets the stage for a tale filled with alliances, betrayals, romance, and decisions that ripple through the Dragon Age franchise.
What makes Hawke especially captivating is the ability for players to define every step of their path. Hawke can be a noble hero, a ruthless pragmatist, or something in between. This player agency allows Hawke to resonate on a personal level, making them one of the most iconic protagonists in RPG history.
With ties to Dragon Age: Origins and a lasting impact on Dragon Age: Inquisition, Hawke is more than just a main character—they are a cornerstone of the series. This article will explore every aspect of Hawke, from their fictional biography to their symbolic influence on gaming culture, ensuring readers get a comprehensive, SEO-optimized breakdown of the Champion of Kirkwall.
Who is Hawke?
Hawke is the main protagonist of Dragon Age II, known as the Champion of Kirkwall. Players choose Hawke’s gender, class (warrior, rogue, or mage), and personality through dialogue choices, making the character highly customizable. Regardless of these variations, Hawke plays a pivotal role in shaping the political and social upheavals in Kirkwall.
Hawke’s importance stretches beyond Dragon Age II. Their presence influences the larger Dragon Age narrative, especially during the mage-templar conflict and the events that lead directly into Dragon Age: Inquisition. Depending on the player’s choices, Hawke can be remembered as a savior or a controversial Figure who escalated tensions.
In many ways, Hawke symbolizes the human struggle against overwhelming odds. As a refugee turned hero, Hawke’s journey mirrors themes of survival, leadership, and sacrifice. This makes them relatable not only as a video game character but also as a storytelling archetype.
Wiki/Bio
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Hawke (first name customizable by player) |
| Title | Champion of Kirkwall |
| Family | Leandra Amell (mother), Malcolm Hawke (father), Bethany/Carver (siblings, fate varies) |
| Career | Adventurer, leader, mediator, refugee-turned-hero |
| Net Worth (Lore) | Not specified in canon; varies based on quests and player choices |
| Body Measurements | Customizable (based on player’s chosen gender/model) |
| Ethnicity | Human (Amell family lineage suggests Fereldan nobility with mage ties) |
| Height | Average human height (varies with game model, approx. 5’9″-6’1″) |
| Weight | Game model average (not officially specified) |
| Age | Early 20s at the start of Dragon Age II, mid-30s by Inquisition |
| Eye Color | Customizable |
| Hair Color | Customizable |
| Body Type | Athletic/adventurer build |
| Relationship | Player choice: can romance companions like Anders, Fenris, Merrill, or Isabella |
This blend of customization and fixed lore makes Hawke a unique character. Players can shape their personality and relationships, but Hawke remains an essential Figure in Dragon Age history.
Early Life and Background
Hawke’s story begins in Lothering, Ferelden, during the Fifth Blight. Born to Malcolm Hawke, a mage, and Leandra Amell, a noble from Kirkwall, Hawke grew up balancing a life of hardship and legacy.
- Childhood in Ferelden: Hawke’s early years were shaped by their father’s magical heritage and the looming presence of the Chantry’s restrictions on mages.
- Family Bonds: The siblings—Bethany (a mage) and Carver (a warrior)—play pivotal roles in Hawke’s personal journey, their fates changing based on in-game decisions.
- The Blight: When the darkspawn invaded, Hawke’s family was forced to flee Lothering, setting in motion the events that define Dragon Age II.
- Refugee in Kirkwall: Hawke’s arrival in Kirkwall, penniless and desperate, highlighted their resilience. This struggle made their eventual rise to power even more extraordinary.
Hawke’s background emphasizes the themes of survival and destiny. They are neither born into greatness nor handed a throne. Instead, Hawke earns their title through determination, sacrifice, and the ability to adapt in times of crisis.
Personal Life and Relationships
Hawke’s personal life is shaped heavily by player choices, allowing for deep emotional connections and branching narratives. Relationships play a critical role in shaping Hawke’s journey.
- Family Relationships: Depending on the decisions, Bethany or Carver can live or die, having a profound impact on Hawke’s emotional arc. Their mother, Leandra, also faces tragedy, grounding Hawke’s story in personal loss.
- Romantic Choices: Hawke can romance companions such as Anders, Merrill, Fenris, or Isabella. These relationships add depth and complexity, often tying into larger political and moral struggles.
- Friendships: Companions like Varric, Aveline, and others provide not just combat support but also personal growth, laughter, and moments of reflection.
- Player-Defined Personality: Hawke’s humor, seriousness, or aggression are shaped by the player, influencing the evolution of relationships.
These aspects make Hawke one of the most human and relatable RPG protagonists, where victories and heartbreaks are felt on a deeply personal level.
Career and Achievements
Hawke’s career and achievements are legendary within Thedas.
- Champion of Kirkwall: Hawke earns this title after leading the city through the Qunari crisis and the Mage-Templar conflict.
- Qunari Encounter: Hawke plays a central role in defending Kirkwall from the Qunari occupation, proving their leadership.
- Mage-Templar War: Hawke’s decisions determine the fate of Kirkwall, whether siding with the mages’ freedom or the templars’ authority.
- Legacy in Inquisition: Years later, Hawke’s decisions and survival impact the events of Dragon Age: Inquisition, solidifying their status as a major historical Figure.
Hawke’s achievements highlight their versatility as a leader, warrior, and symbol of hope or controversy, depending on how players shape their destiny.
Net Worth Overview
While Dragon Age lore does not assign Hawke a fixed monetary net worth, their wealth and influence grow significantly throughout the game.
| Year / Timeline | Net Worth Estimate (Lore-Based) |
| Refugee Arrival (Kirkwall) | Nearly penniless, dependent on mercenary work |
| Act I | Gains income through mercenary/smuggling contracts |
| Act II | Accumulates wealth through trade, adventuring, and quests |
| Act III | Becomes one of the wealthiest figures in Kirkwall due to influence and status |
| Post-Dragon Age II | Wealth and resources vary based on choices; influence remains significant |
Hawke’s real wealth lies in power, alliances, and reputation rather than gold. By the end of Dragon Age II, Hawke controls Kirkwall’s political future, which is a form of net worth beyond material riches.
Major Sources of Income
Hawke earns money and influence through various means:
- Mercenary Contracts – Early survival in Kirkwall depends on these dangerous jobs.
- Smuggling Work – Offers quick income for those willing to bend moral rules.
- Adventuring and Looting – Defeating enemies, exploring dungeons, and completing quests bring steady wealth.
- Alliances with Nobles – Political connections increase resources and influence.
- Champion’s Status – By Act III, Hawke’s role provides access to wealth, property, and respect.
Luxurious Lifestyle
As Hawke rises from refugee to Champion, their lifestyle evolves dramatically.
- From Poverty to Prosperity: Hawke begins in cramped refugee quarters but eventually owns a grand estate in Hightown.
- Symbol of Influence: Hawke’s estate becomes a hub for companions, allies, and political figures.
- Lavish Possessions: Depending on quests, Hawke gains access to magical artifacts, fine armor, and valuable treasures.
- Respected Figure: By the end of Dragon Age II, Hawke lives as a wealthy and influential leader of Kirkwall.
Hawke’s luxurious lifestyle reflects their resilience and ability to turn hardship into opportunity.
Hobbies and Fun Facts
Beyond battles and politics, Hawke’s personality shines in small moments:
- Sarcasm and Humor: Hawke is known for witty one-liners and humorous responses, which fans love.
- Romantic Pursuits: Depending on player choice, Hawke can explore deep, meaningful romances with companions.
- Family Loyalty: Despite hardships, Hawke always puts family first, shaping key story arcs.
- Friendship with Varric: Their bond with the dwarf storyteller remains one of the most iconic relationships in Dragon Age.
- Customization: Players control Hawke’s appearance, class, and personality, making each playthrough unique.
- Canon Name: While customizable, “Garrett Hawke” (male) and “Marian Hawke” (female) are considered semi-canon defaults.
- Legacy in Lore: Hawke’s decisions shape not only Kirkwall but also events in Dragon Age: Inquisition.
Hawke is as much a reflection of the player as they are a character in lore, blending customization with fixed history.
Future Prospects
Hawke’s legacy remains significant in future Dragon Age titles.
- Dragon Age: Inquisition: Hawke plays a supporting role, potentially sacrificing themselves to save the world.
- Dragon Age: Dreadwolf (Upcoming): Hawke’s fate and influence may continue to shape the story, depending on player choices.
- Enduring Legacy: Regardless of their fate, Hawke remains remembered as a pivotal Figure in Thedas’ history.
Future games may further explore Hawke’s story, especially in relation to the Inquisition, Solas, and the mage-templar war aftermath.
Impact on Social Media
Hawke remains a fan favorite, consistently trending among Dragon Age communities on platforms like Reddit, Twitter (X), and TikTok.
- Memes and Quotes: Hawke’s sarcastic personality makes them a constant source of fan-created content.
- Cosplay and Fan Art: Thousands of fans bring Hawke to life through cosplay and illustrations.
- Fandom Engagement: Hawke’s flexible narrative allows fans to debate and share unique stories online.
- Evergreen Popularity: Even years after Dragon Age II’s release, Hawke continues to be celebrated as one of BioWare’s best-written protagonists.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Who is Hawke in Dragon Age?
Hawke is the main protagonist of Dragon Age II, known as the Champion of Kirkwall.
Q2. Can Hawke die?
Yes, in Dragon Age: Inquisition, Hawke can die depending on player choices.
Q3. What class can Hawke be?
Hawke can be a warrior, rogue, or mage.
Q4. Is Hawke connected to Dragon Age: Origins?
Yes, Hawke is indirectly connected through the Amell lineage and events following the Fifth Blight.
Q5. What romances are available for Hawke?
Hawke can romance Anders, Merrill, Fenris, or Isabella.
Conclusion
Hawke, the Champion of Kirkwall, stands as one of the most dynamic and customizable protagonists in modern RPG history. From a refugee with nothing to a leader shaping the fate of Thedas, Hawke embodies resilience, complexity, and player-driven storytelling.
Their impact extends beyond Dragon Age II, influencing the franchise’s broader narrative and captivating fans worldwide. Whether remembered as a hero, villain, or something in between, Hawke’s legacy will endure in the annals of fantasy gaming.
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