The Targaryen Family Tree: A Comprehensive Guide to Fire and Blood
Introduction
Greetings, readers! Dive into the captivating history of House Targaryen, the legendary dynasty that ruled Westeros for centuries. We will unravel the intricate web of relationships that shaped their reign, from their dragon-riding ancestors to their bloody civil wars.
The Targaryens, with their distinctive silver hair and purple eyes, were a family of fire and blood. Their rise to power was marked by conquest and dominance, but their legacy was also marred by tragedy and intrigue. Join us as we delve into the complex and intertwined branches of their family tree.
The Dragonlords of Valyria
Origins
The Targaryens traced their lineage back to the ancient Freehold of Valyria, a powerful civilization renowned for its mastery over dragons. Approximately five centuries before the events of "A Song of Ice and Fire," the Freehold was destroyed in a cataclysmic event known as the Doom.
The Flight to Dragonstone
Amidst the chaos, Aegon I Targaryen, along with his sisters Rhaenys and Visenya, fled Valyria on the backs of their dragons. They settled on the volcanic island of Dragonstone, which became their new home.
The Conquest of Westeros
Aegon the Conqueror
In 28 AC, Aegon I Targaryen embarked on a daring conquest of the Seven Kingdoms. With the aid of his dragons and his loyal followers, he triumphed over the warring kingdoms one by one, establishing the Targaryen dynasty.
The Iron Throne
Aegon claimed the Iron Throne of Westeros, becoming its first king. He united the Seven Kingdoms under his rule, ushering in a period of relative peace and prosperity.
The Dance of the Dragons
The Targaryen Civil War
The reign of House Targaryen was not without its turmoil. In 129 AC, a bloody civil war erupted between two rival factions of the family, known as the "Dance of the Dragons."
The Red Queen and the Black Queen
The war pitted Aegon II Targaryen, supported by his mother Alicent Hightower, against his half-sister Rhaenyra Targaryen, backed by her son Aegon the Younger and her supporters.
The Fall of the Targaryen Dynasty
The Mad King
With the passage of centuries, the Targaryen dynasty began to decline. Aerys II Targaryen, known as the Mad King, was an erratic and cruel ruler whose reign was marked by paranoia and violence.
Robert’s Rebellion
In 283 AC, Robert Baratheon, Lord of Storm’s End, led a rebellion against the Mad King. With the support of other noble houses, including House Stark, House Tully, and House Arryn, Robert overthrew Aerys and claimed the Iron Throne for himself.
The Targaryen Family Tree (Table)
| Name | Relationship | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Aegon I Targaryen | Founder of House Targaryen | King of Westeros |
| Rhaenys Targaryen | Sister of Aegon I | Queen Consort |
| Visenya Targaryen | Sister of Aegon I | Queen Consort |
| Maegor I Targaryen | Son of Aegon I | King of Westeros |
| Jaehaerys I Targaryen | Son of Maegor I | King of Westeros |
| Alysanne Targaryen | Consort of Jaehaerys I | Queen Consort |
| Viserys I Targaryen | Son of Jaehaerys I | King of Westeros |
| Rhaenyra Targaryen | Daughter of Viserys I | Queen Consort |
| Aegon II Targaryen | Son of Viserys I | King of Westeros |
| Aerys II Targaryen | Son of Aegon II | King of Westeros |
| Rhaegar Targaryen | Son of Aerys II | Prince of Dragonstone |
| Viserys Targaryen | Son of Aerys II | Claimant to the Iron Throne |
| Daenerys Targaryen | Daughter of Aerys II | Claimant to the Iron Throne |
Conclusion
The Targaryen family tree is a testament to the complexities of power, ambition, and the human heart. Their rise, fall, and legacy continue to fascinate readers and viewers of the "A Song of Ice and Fire" series.
Interested in exploring more intriguing topics? Check out our other articles on the history of Westeros, the lore of the Seven Kingdoms, and the enigmatic characters that shape this epic tale.
FAQ about Targaryen Family Tree
Who is the founder of the Targaryen dynasty?
A: Aegon I Targaryen, also known as Aegon the Conqueror.
How many dragons did the Targaryens possess?
A: Approximately 20 dragons at the peak of their power.
What was the motto of the Targaryen family?
A: "Fire and Blood"
Who was the last Targaryen dragonrider?
A: Daenerys Targaryen
What is the relationship between Aegon II and Rhaenyra?
A: Half-brother and half-sister, respectively, and they fought a civil war for the Iron Throne known as the Dance of the Dragons.
Who married their own brother in the Targaryen family?
A: Daenerys Targaryen married Viserys Targaryen, her older brother.
What was the "Mad King’s" real name?
A: Aerys II Targaryen, also known as the Mad King.
Who overthrew the Targaryens?
A: Robert Baratheon, with the support of the Starks, Lannisters, and other houses.
What color hair did the Targaryens typically have?
A: Silver or platinum blonde.
Did any Targaryens have purple eyes?
A: Yes, most members of the Targaryen family had violet or lilac-colored eyes.
