The Targaryen Family Tree: A Comprehensive Guide to the Dynasty that Ruled Westeros
Introduction
Hello, readers! Welcome to our in-depth exploration of the Targaryen family tree, a lineage steeped in power, prophecy, and tragedy. The Targaryens, with their distinctive silver hair and purple eyes, ruled Westeros for centuries, leaving an indelible mark on the history of the Seven Kingdoms. Join us as we delve into the complexities of this enigmatic family and uncover the secrets that have shaped their destiny.
The Early Targaryens
The Conquest
The Targaryen dynasty began with Aegon the Conqueror, who, with the aid of his sisters and dragons, conquered Westeros two hundred years before the events of A Song of Ice and Fire. Aegon’s reign established the Targaryen Empire and laid the foundation for a prosperous era.
The Dance of the Dragons
However, the Targaryen family was not without its internal conflicts. The Dance of the Dragons, a brutal civil war that lasted for years, pitted brother against sister and dragon against dragon in a bitter struggle for the Iron Throne. The war decimated the Targaryen family and weakened their hold on power.
The Height of the Dynasty
The Reign of Jaehaerys I
After the Dance of the Dragons, a period of peace and stability ensued under the rule of King Jaehaerys I, known as the Wise. Jaehaerys was a skilled administrator who oversaw a golden age for Westeros. He reformed the political system, codified the laws, and created the Kingsguard, an elite order of knights sworn to protect the royal family.
The Mad King Aerys
However, the Targaryen dynasty reached its peak and then descended into chaos under the reign of Aerys II, known as the Mad King. Aerys was a paranoid and cruel tyrant who alienated his allies and drove the country to the brink of civil war. His madness culminated in the Sack of King’s Landing, which destroyed the city and ended the Targaryen dynasty.
The Targaryens in Exile
Viserys and Daenerys
After the Sack of King’s Landing, the surviving Targaryens were forced to flee into exile. Viserys, the last male heir, was a weak and entitled prince who wandered from court to court seeking support for his claim to the Iron Throne. His sister, Daenerys, was a young but resourceful princess who emerged as the true hope for the Targaryen dynasty.
The Return of the Dragons
Under Daenerys’ leadership, the Targaryens returned to Westeros with a formidable army and three dragons at their disposal. Daenerys quickly established herself as a powerful force in the War of the Five Kings, but her ambitions ultimately led to her downfall. Despite her efforts, the Targaryen dynasty once again ended in tragedy.
The Targaryen Family Tree in Table Form
| Name | Relationship | Reign | Notable Events |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aegon I Targaryen | Conqueror | 2 BC – 37 AC | United Westeros under Targaryen rule |
| Visenya Targaryen | Sister-wife | 2 BC – 25 AC | Fought alongside Aegon in the Conquest |
| Rhaenys Targaryen | Sister-wife | 2 BC – 10 AC | Queen of the Reach after the Conquest |
| Aegon II Targaryen | Grandson | 129 AC – 131 AC | Involved in the Dance of the Dragons |
| Rhaenyra Targaryen | Granddaughter | 129 AC – 130 AC | Queen who fought in the Dance of the Dragons |
| Jaehaerys I Targaryen | Great-great-grandson | 48 AC – 103 AC | Known as the Wise and reformed the kingdom |
| Viserys I Targaryen | Great-great-grandson | 103 AC – 129 AC | Married his niece, Aemma |
| Aerys II Targaryen | Grandson | 262 AC – 283 AC | Known as the Mad King and caused the Sack of King’s Landing |
| Rhaegar Targaryen | Grandson | 281 AC – 283 AC | Known for his love for Lyanna Stark |
| Viserys Targaryen | Son | N/A | Killed by Khal Drogo |
| Daenerys Targaryen | Daughter | N/A | Conquered Meereen and invaded Westeros |
Conclusion
The Targaryen family tree is a tapestry woven with triumph and tragedy, ambition and betrayal. Their legacy continues to inspire and captivate fans of A Song of Ice and Fire. We invite you to explore our other articles that delve into the intricate relationships and fascinating history of this iconic dynasty.
FAQ about Targaryen Family Tree
Who are the Targaryens?
The Targaryens are a noble family from Valyria who ruled Westeros for nearly three centuries. They were known for their silver-gold hair and purple eyes, and their mastery over dragons.
Who was the first Targaryen king?
Aegon I Targaryen, also known as Aegon the Conqueror, was the first Targaryen king. He conquered Westeros and established the Targaryen dynasty.
Who are the most important Targaryen characters?
Some of the most important Targaryen characters include Daenerys Targaryen, Jon Snow, Aegon VI Targaryen (Young Griff), Aerys II Targaryen (the Mad King), and Viserys I Targaryen.
What are the different branches of the Targaryen family?
The Targaryen family has three main branches: the main branch, the Blackfyre branch, and the Bittersteel branch.
What happened to the Targaryen dynasty?
The Targaryen dynasty was overthrown in Robert’s Rebellion, when King Aerys II Targaryen was killed by Jaime Lannister.
What is the significance of the Targaryen sigil?
The Targaryen sigil is a three-headed dragon, which represents the three branches of the family.
What are the different theories about the parentage of Jon Snow?
There are several theories about Jon Snow’s parentage, the most popular of which is that he is the son of Rhaegar Targaryen and Lyanna Stark.
What is the relationship between Daenerys Targaryen and Jon Snow?
Daenerys Targaryen and Jon Snow are aunt and nephew.
What is the future of the Targaryen family?
The future of the Targaryen family is uncertain. Daenerys Targaryen is dead, and Jon Snow’s true parentage is still unknown. However, there are still several members of the family alive, so it is possible that the Targaryens could one day return to power.
What are some interesting facts about the Targaryens?
- The Targaryens are descended from the Valyrian Freehold, a powerful civilization that existed in Essos.
- The Targaryens are known for their silver-gold hair and purple eyes, which are a result of their Valyrian blood.
- The Targaryens were the only family in Westeros to master dragons.
- The Targaryen dynasty lasted for nearly three centuries, until it was overthrown in Robert’s Rebellion.
