The intricate web of relationships in the fictional world of Westeros has captivated fans of the epic fantasy series, Game of Thrones. Among the prominent houses are the Baratheons and Targaryens, whose histories are deeply entwined. From secret marriages to forbidden affairs, these two houses have witnessed both power and tragedy throughout the centuries. In this article, we will delve into the complex lineage of the Baratheons and Targaryens, unraveling the connections that bind them together and exploring the implications these relationships have had on the fate of Westeros.
In the vast tapestry of Westerosi history, the Baratheons and Targaryens stand as pillars of power and influence. The Baratheon dynasty, with its roots in the Stormlands, rose to prominence after Robert Baratheon’s rebellion against the Mad King Aerys Targaryen. Conversely, the Targaryens had long sat upon the Iron Throne, their dragon-forged empire spanning centuries. Yet, beneath the surface of these noble houses lies a labyrinth of hidden ties and shared bloodlines that shed a new light on their interwoven destinies. By exploring the intricate connections between the Baratheons and Targaryens, we gain insight into the complex dynamics that have shaped the political landscape of Westeros and continue to haunt its present.
## Background on the Baratheon and Targaryen Houses
### House Baratheon: A Stormy Legacy
The Baratheons, one of the most prominent houses in Westeros, trace their lineage back to the legendary Orys Baratheon, the founder of the house. Orys served as the Hand of the King to Aegon the Conqueror and was known for his exceptional military prowess. After Aegon’s conquest, Orys was granted Storm’s End and was made the first Lord Paramount of the Stormlands. This marked the beginning of the Baratheon dynasty.
However, it was Robert Baratheon, Orys’ descendant, who would bring the house to the forefront of Westerosi politics. Known for his charismatic personality and formidable strength, Robert led a rebellion against the Targaryens, known as Robert’s Rebellion. This successfully ousted the Mad King, Aerys II Targaryen, and saw Robert ascend to the Iron Throne.
Robert’s reign as king was marked by indulgence and a lack of political acumen, leading to a strained relationship with his wife, Cersei Lannister. Despite having three children together, Joffrey, Tommen, and Myrcella, the truth of their parentage was eventually revealed – they were not Robert’s biological children, but rather the product of Cersei’s incestuous relationship with her twin brother, Jaime Lannister.
### The Targaryens: A Legacy of Dragons
The Targaryens, often referred to as the “Dragonlords,” were the once ruling family of Westeros. Their lineage can be traced back to Aegon the Conqueror, who invaded Westeros with his dragon siblings and established the Seven Kingdoms.
Daenerys Targaryen, also known as Daenerys Stormborn, is the last known surviving member of the Targaryen dynasty. Raised in exile across the Narrow Sea, Daenerys gained international attention for her acquisition of three dragon eggs, which would later hatch into the fearsome creatures. With her newfound dragons, she embarked on a journey to reclaim the Iron Throne and bring back the Targaryen dynasty.
Other notable members of the Targaryen lineage include Viserys Targaryen, who served as the Beggar King and brokered a marriage alliance with the Dothraki, and Rhaegar Targaryen, the reputed “Prince Who Was Promised” and the father of Jon Snow.
### Understanding the Westerosi Lineage
The intertwined lineages of House Baratheon and House Targaryen play a crucial role in the intricate politics of Westeros. The children of Robert Baratheon and Cersei Lannister, falsely believed to be legitimate heirs, possess both Baratheon and Lannister blood. Meanwhile, the true parentage of Jon Snow, revealed to be the son of Rhaegar Targaryen and Lyanna Stark, adds another layer of complexity to the Baratheon-Targaryen connection.
The relationships between these houses have been marked by alliances, wars, and betrayals, all of which have significant implications for the succession to the Iron Throne. As the realm prepares for the brewing conflict, the revelation of these hidden lineages and their implications will undoubtedly shape the future of Westeros.
The Common Ancestor: Aegon the Conqueror
Aegon the Conqueror and the Founding of the Seven Kingdoms
In order to understand the complex web of relationships between the Baratheons and Targaryens, we must first delve into the history of House Targaryen and its famous founder, Aegon the Conqueror. Aegon, along with his sister-wives Visenya and Rhaenys, rode into Westeros on their dragons and succeeded in forging the realm known as the Seven Kingdoms.
The Targaryen Dynasty’s Rule over Westeros
Following the successful conquest, House Targaryen established their rule in Westeros, with Aegon becoming the first Targaryen king. For nearly three centuries, the Targaryens sat on the Iron Throne, shaping the history of the realm with their dragonfire and the enigmatic power of their bloodline.
The Line of Succession and the Baratheon Rebellion
Despite their initially unchallenged rule, the Targaryen dynasty faced a major threat in the form of the Baratheons. Orys Baratheon, rumored to be a bastard half-brother of Aegon the Conqueror, established House Baratheon and soon became a powerful presence in Westeros. However, it was Robert Baratheon, Orys’ descendant, who ultimately became the catalyst for rebellion.
The Baratheon Lineage
Aegon the Conqueror’s Bastard Brother: Orys Baratheon
Orys Baratheon, believed to be the half-brother of Aegon the Conqueror, was the founder of House Baratheon. A skilled warrior and loyal general, Orys proved his worth as Aegon’s right-hand man during the conquest of Westeros. Orys became the first Lord of Storm’s End and his descendants carried on his name and house.
The Usurper: Robert Baratheon
One of the most well-known figures in Westerosi history, Robert Baratheon seized the Iron Throne after overthrowing the Targaryens in Robert’s Rebellion. Known for his strength and prowess on the battlefield, Robert ruled the Seven Kingdoms as king until his untimely demise.
The Children of Robert: Joffrey, Tommen, and Myrcella
Under Robert’s rule, his marriage to Cersei Lannister produced three children: Joffrey, Tommen, and Myrcella. These siblings, known as the Baratheon princes and princess, initially believed to be true heirs to House Baratheon, were later exposed as offspring of incest between Cersei and her twin brother, Jaime Lannister.
Overall, the Baratheon lineage played a pivotal role in the overthrow of the Targaryen dynasty, setting the stage for a complex interweaving of the two houses. Their connection, through Orys Baratheon and the actions of Robert, Cersei, and their children, has had significant implications for the future of the Iron Throne succession and the power dynamics of Westeros itself. In the subsequent sections, we will explore the Targaryen lineage and the relationships between the houses, shedding light on the alliances, wars, and betrayals that shaped the history of the Seven Kingdoms.
The Baratheon Lineage
A. Orys Baratheon: The Founder
One of the oldest and most influential houses in Westeros, the Baratheons trace their lineage back to their founder, Orys Baratheon. Orys was reputed to be a formidable warrior and loyal supporter of House Targaryen during the Targaryen conquest of Westeros. It is said that he was the half-brother or possibly even the bastard brother of Aegon the Conqueror, the first Targaryen king. Orys married Aegon’s sister, Argella Durrandon, and their union solidified the alliance between the House Baratheon and House Targaryen.
B. Robert Baratheon: The Usurper
The most well-known Baratheon in recent history is Robert Baratheon, who eventually became the king of Westeros. Following the Mad King Aerys II Targaryen’s demise during Robert’s Rebellion, Robert overthrew the Targaryen dynasty and took the Iron Throne for himself. His marriage to Cersei Lannister, a powerful alliance with House Lannister, further secured his hold on the throne.
C. Joffrey, Tommen, and Myrcella: The Children of Robert
Robert and Cersei had three children together: Joffrey, Tommen, and Myrcella. These children were widely believed to be legitimate heirs to the Iron Throne, but later revelations exposed them as products of Cersei’s incestuous relationship with her twin brother, Jaime Lannister. Their true parentage tarnished the legitimacy of the Baratheon claim to the throne and sparked a series of conflicts and power struggles within the Seven Kingdoms.
The Targaryen Lineage
A. Daenerys Targaryen: The Last Dragon
Daenerys Targaryen, more commonly known as Daenerys Stormborn, is widely regarded as the last of the Targaryen bloodline. Exiled as a young child, Daenerys spent years in Essos, gathering armies and dragons to reclaim her family’s rightful place on the Iron Throne. She garnered the support and loyalty of various factions, including the Unsullied and the Dothraki, and became a symbol of hope for many in Westeros.
B. Viserys Targaryen: The Beggar King
Viserys Targaryen, Daenerys’ elder brother, held the title of the Beggar King. He was desperate to reclaim the Iron Throne but lacked the resources and charisma of his sister. Viserys’ volatile nature and delusions of grandeur eventually led to his downfall and demise.
C. Rhaegar Targaryen: The Prince Who Was Promised
Rhaegar Targaryen, eldest son of the Mad King Aerys II Targaryen, was considered a highly skilled warrior and a man of great intellect. He abducted Lyanna Stark, sparking the rebellion against the Targaryens. The reason for this abduction remains shrouded in mystery, with some theories suggesting that it was a love affair rather than a kidnapping. Rhaegar’s actions ultimately led to the downfall of House Targaryen.
D. Aerys II Targaryen: The Mad King
Aerys II Targaryen, commonly referred to as the Mad King, was the last Targaryen ruler before Robert Baratheon’s rebellion. His increasingly erratic behavior, marked by paranoia and cruelty, led to his demise at the hands of Jaime Lannister. Aerys’ rule served as a catalyst for the rebellion that changed the course of Westerosi history.
E. The Children of Daenerys and Jon Snow
Daenerys Targaryen’s relationship with Jon Snow, also known as Aegon Targaryen, resulted in a union that brought together the two most prominent Targaryen bloodlines. Their children, had they survived, would have represented the merging of House Targaryen and House Stark, a significant development in the Westerosi lineage.
In the complex web of Westerosi history, the Baratheons and Targaryens share a connection that stretches back to the founding of House Baratheon. This connection and the subsequent alliances, wars, and betrayals between the houses continue to shape the struggle for power and the succession of the Iron Throne.
The Targaryen Lineage
In the complex web of Westerosi lineage, the Targaryen House stands tall as one of the most influential. With their dragon blood and long history of rulers, the Targaryens have left an indelible mark on the Seven Kingdoms. This section delves into the key members of the Targaryen lineage and their significance in the grand scheme of Westerosi politics.
A. Daenerys Targaryen: The Last Dragon
Daenerys Targaryen, also known as Daenerys Stormborn, is perhaps the most famous Targaryen in recent times. Although born in exile, Daenerys successfully hatched three dragon eggs, reviving the long-lost power of dragons in Westeros. With the aid of her dragons and her mesmerizing leadership, she conquered and ruled a vast empire across Essos, freeing slaves and gaining the loyalty of many followers.
B. Viserys Targaryen: The Beggar King
Viserys Targaryen, Daenerys’ older brother, played a significant role in shaping her destiny. After their family was deposed during Robert’s Rebellion, Viserys fled to Essos, living a life of exile and becoming known as the Beggar King. Desperate to reclaim the Iron Throne, Viserys arranged a marriage between Daenerys and Khal Drogo, the leader of a powerful Dothraki khalasar. Though he met a tragic end, his actions set in motion the events that would transform Daenerys into a formidable ruler.
C. Rhaegar Targaryen: The Prince Who Was Promised
Rhaegar Targaryen, the eldest son of King Aerys II, was destined to become a great leader. Known for his love of music and melancholic demeanor, Rhaegar caused controversy when he set aside his wife Elia Martell to marry Lyanna Stark, sparking Robert’s Rebellion. It is widely speculated that Rhaegar and Lyanna’s son, Jon Snow, is the prophesied Prince Who Was Promised, making his lineage a crucial factor in the story’s unfolding.
D. Aerys II Targaryen: The Mad King
Aerys II Targaryen, infamous as the Mad King, was the last Targaryen king to sit on the Iron Throne before Robert Baratheon’s rebellion. His rule was marked by paranoia and cruelty, culminating in his death at the hands of Jaime Lannister, who became known as the Kingslayer. The Mad King’s actions triggered a series of events that transformed the realm and directly impacted the lineages of both the Baratheons and the Targaryens.
E. The Children of Daenerys and Jon Snow
The intimate relationship between Daenerys and Jon Snow revealed in the final seasons of Game of Thrones raised intrigue and questions about the future of their offspring. Although their union was short-lived, their son, Aegon Targaryen, carries the bloodlines of both Houses and is a potential heir to the Iron Throne. This unexpected twist in the lineage further complicates the already intricate web of Westerosi politics.
Through these characters, the Targaryen lineage showcases power, tragedy, and the potential for greatness. The Targaryens have left an undeniable impact on the world of Westeros and continue to be a driving force in the struggle for the Iron Throne, as well as the future of the Seven Kingdoms. As the saga unfolds, the Targaryen lineage remains a significant factor in the power dynamics of the realm.
The Baratheon-Targaryen Connection: Robert and Cersei’s Children
In the highly intricate and complex world of Westeros, where bloodlines and alliances hold immense significance, the Baratheon and Targaryen houses have an unexpected connection. This connection stems from the marriage between Robert Baratheon, the usurper who claimed the Iron Throne, and Cersei Lannister, a member of House Lannister.
When Robert became King, he wanted to secure his reign and cement his alliance with House Lannister. To achieve this, he married Cersei, making her the Queen of Westeros. However, unknown to Robert, Cersei was engaged in a long-term incestuous relationship with her twin brother, Jaime Lannister, resulting in all three of her children being fathered by Jaime.
The consequences of this secret Baratheon-Targaryen connection are significant, as it involves the direct bloodline of two of the most influential houses in Westeros. The eldest child of Robert and Cersei, Joffrey, was believed to be the legitimate heir to the Iron Throne. However, in reality, Joffrey was not the trueborn son of Robert but rather the product of incest between Cersei and Jaime, making him a Baratheon-Targaryen hybrid.
The revelation of this connection has serious implications for the succession of the Iron Throne. Traditionally, the throne passes from father to son, but with Joffrey being illegitimate, questions arise about who the rightful heir should be. This revelation also presents an opportunity for competing houses to stake their claim on the Iron Throne, as the Baratheon line is shown to be tainted.
Moreover, this revelation has political consequences as well. It exposes the weakness and deception within House Lannister, which had previously been seen as a powerful and untouchable force in Westeros. This revelation also adds more fuel to the ongoing conflict between the Lannisters and other houses, such as the Starks and Martells, who seek to dethrone the Lannisters and claim power for themselves.
Ultimately, the Baratheon-Targaryen connection disrupts the stability and legitimacy of the Iron Throne succession, leading to further chaos and conflict in the Seven Kingdoms. The revelation of Joffrey’s true parentage sparks a chain of events that will shape the future of Westeros and have far-reaching consequences for all the major players in the Game of Thrones.
As the next section will explore, Jon Snow’s own lineage adds another layer of complexity to the already intricate web of relationships between the houses, further entwining the Baratheon, Targaryen, and Stark bloodlines.
VJon Snow’s Lineage: The Secret Targaryen
Introduction
In the intricate world of Westeros, where alliances are made and broken, and power is constantly shifting, the understanding of lineage is crucial. One such lineage that has captivated viewers and readers of George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” series is that of the Baratheons and Targaryens. This article aims to take a closer look at their relationship and, in particular, the revelation of Jon Snow’s true parentage, which results in his connection to both houses.
The Revelation of Jon Snow’s True Parentage
For several seasons of the television series “Game of Thrones,” Jon Snow is believed to be the bastard son of Ned Stark, the honorable Lord of Winterfell. However, in the seventh season, it is revealed that Jon is, in fact, the legitimate son of Rhaegar Targaryen and Lyanna Stark, Ned’s sister. This revelation has significant implications for understanding the relationship between the Baratheons and Targaryens.
Jon Snow’s Connection to the Baratheon House
Jon Snow’s connection to the Baratheon house comes through his father, Rhaegar Targaryen, who is married to Elia Martell, sister to Oberyn Martell. Rhaegar’s marriage, however, does not prevent him from forming a romantic relationship with Lyanna Stark, resulting in the birth of Jon Snow. As a result, Jon Snow becomes the half-brother of Rhaegar’s children with Elia Martell, Rhaenys and Aegon Targaryen.
Rethinking the Baratheon and Targaryen Relationship
The revelation of Jon Snow’s true parentage adds a layer of complexity to the already intricate web of alliances, wars, and betrayals between the Baratheons and Targaryens. While the Baratheons and Targaryens were previously seen as two separate houses, their connection through Jon Snow blurs the lines of distinction.
Implications for the Iron Throne Succession
The revelation of Jon Snow’s Targaryen lineage calls into question his rightful claim to the Iron Throne. As the legitimate son of Rhaegar Targaryen, Jon Snow is technically the heir to the Targaryen dynasty. However, his upbringing as a Stark and the fact that he is perceived as a Snow, rather than a Targaryen, complicates the already complex succession politics of Westeros.
Conclusion
The reveal of Jon Snow’s true parentage not only strengthens his connection to the Baratheons and Targaryens but also introduces new challenges to the already intricate power dynamics in Westeros. As the series progresses, the implications of this revelation will undoubtedly shape the fate of the Iron Throne and the future of the Seven Kingdoms.
VIRelationships between the Houses: Alliance, War, and Betrayal
Alliance between the Baratheons and Targaryens
Throughout Westerosi history, the houses of Baratheon and Targaryen have had complex and often tumultuous relationships. While bloodshed and betrayal have characterized their interactions, alliances have also been forged.
The Baratheon-Targaryen Alliance during the Rebellion
The alliance between the Baratheons and Targaryens began to unravel during Robert’s Rebellion, which saw the overthrow of the Targaryen dynasty. Robert Baratheon, the usurper, led the rebellion against King Aerys II Targaryen. However, the origins of the conflict can be traced back to an alliance formed through marriage.
Betrayal and War
The rebellion was ignited by the kidnapping of Lyanna Stark, whom Rhaegar Targaryen had eloped with. This act of betrayal shattered the ties between the houses, leading to a bloody war that ultimately resulted in the fall of the Targaryen dynasty. As the war raged on, both Robert Baratheon and Rhaegar Targaryen fell in battle, sealing the fate of their houses.
Baratheon-Targaryen Relations in Later Generations
Despite the supposed extinction of the Targaryen line and the ascension of Robert Baratheon to the Iron Throne, the relationship between the Baratheons and Targaryens continued to be intertwined. Cersei Lannister married Robert, resulting in the birth of their children – Joffrey, Tommen, and Myrcella – who were widely believed to be Baratheons but in fact had Targaryen blood.
The Secret Targaryen
Jon Snow, who was previously believed to be the illegitimate son of Ned Stark, was later revealed to be the legitimate child of Rhaegar Targaryen and Lyanna Stark. This shocking revelation further enhanced the connection between the Baratheon and Targaryen houses, as Jon Snow, now known as Aegon Targaryen, is the legitimate heir to the Iron Throne.
Implications for the Iron Throne Succession
With the revelation of Jon Snow’s true lineage, the implications for the Iron Throne succession are significant. The alliance between the houses of Baratheon and Targaryen, born out of a necessity to overthrow a tyrannical ruler, now has the chance to be restored through a marriage alliance between Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen, who is Jon’s aunt, as well as his newfound love interest.
Conclusion
The relationship between the houses of Baratheon and Targaryen has been defined by alliance, war, and betrayal. From the initial alliance between Orys Baratheon and Aegon the Conqueror, to the warring factions during Robert’s Rebellion, and the complex connections between the Baratheon and Targaryen offspring, their histories are interwoven in the tapestry of Westeros. With Jon Snow’s true lineage now revealed, the potential for a renewed alliance and the implications it holds for the Iron Throne succession are yet to be seen. As the final season of Game of Thrones approaches, the resolution of these relationships promises to shape the fate of Westeros and its ruling dynasty.
Implications for the Iron Throne Succession
The Targaryen Claim
With the recent revelation of Jon Snow’s true parentage, a new contender has emerged in the race for the Iron Throne. As the legitimate son of Rhaegar Targaryen and Lyanna Stark, Jon Snow, now known as Aegon Targaryen, holds a strong claim to the throne. According to Westerosi tradition, the Targaryen bloodline has always been considered the rightful rulers of the Seven Kingdoms, dating back to Aegon the Conqueror. With Daenerys Targaryen being the last known surviving Targaryen, the revelation of Jon’s lineage has created a potential conflict for the throne.
The Baratheon Struggle
The Baratheon dynasty, which was founded by Orys Baratheon after he married Aegon the Conqueror’s half-sister, has long held the Iron Throne. However, their claim was largely based on Robert Baratheon’s successful rebellion against the Mad King, Aerys II Targaryen. As a result, the Baratheon claim lacks the legitimacy of the Targaryen bloodline. Furthermore, with the deaths of Robert’s supposed children, Joffrey, Tommen, and Myrcella, the Baratheon lineage is in question. This leaves Stannis Baratheon, Robert’s younger brother, as the rightful heir, but his death during the War of the Five Kings complicates the succession even further.
Complex Alliances and Betrayals
The relationships between the Baratheons and Targaryens have been marked by a series of complex alliances and betrayals. Robert Baratheon’s marriage to Cersei Lannister may have produced children, but their true parentage was Cersei’s darkest secret. The revelation of their illegitimacy not only delegitimizes the Baratheon claim to the throne but also casts doubt on the relationship between the two houses. Additionally, the Targaryens and Baratheons were once united through the marriage of Rhaegar Targaryen and Elia Martell. However, their union was shattered when Rhaegar fell in love with Lyanna Stark, sparking Robert Baratheon’s rebellion.
A Possible Compromise
With Daenerys Targaryen and Jon Snow’s recent alliance, a potential compromise for the Iron Throne succession has arisen. As Daenerys cannot have children and Jon is the rightful heir to the Targaryen dynasty, it is possible that a marriage between the two could create a united front, merging the claims of both houses. This would provide a compromise solution that could potentially appease the supporters of both the Targaryens and the Baratheons, ensuring a smoother transition of power and preventing further conflict in Westeros.
In conclusion, the implications for the Iron Throne succession are vast and far-reaching. The Targaryen claim, the uncertain Baratheon lineage, and the complex alliances and betrayals between the houses all contribute to the current state of uncertainty and conflict surrounding the throne. However, the recent alliance between Daenerys Targaryen and Jon Snow presents a potential solution that could bring stability to the Seven Kingdoms. It remains to be seen how the conflicts will unfold and who will ultimately sit upon the Iron Throne.
X. Conclusion
Exploring the Complexities of Westerosi Lineage
Throughout this examination of Westerosi lineage, we have uncovered the intricate web of relationships between the Baratheon and Targaryen Houses. From the common ancestor Aegon the Conqueror to the present generation, the Baratheons and Targaryens have been interwoven in a tapestry of power, ambition, and betrayal.
We began by delving into the background of both houses, highlighting their significance to the history and politics of Westeros. The Targaryens, known for their dragon-riding ancestry, ruled over the Seven Kingdoms for nearly three centuries. Meanwhile, the Baratheons emerged as a key house after their founder, Orys Baratheon, proved himself as a conqueror.
The Baratheon lineage, which began with Orys Baratheon, experienced a pivotal moment when Robert Baratheon successfully usurped the Iron Throne from the Mad King, Aerys II Targaryen. Robert’s children, Joffrey, Tommen, and Myrcella, were believed to be his rightful heirs, but in reality, they were not his biological children. This revelation adds another layer of complexity to the Baratheon-Targaryen connection.
On the Targaryen side, Daenerys emerged as the last dragon and harbinger of Targaryen restoration. Her homeward journey ignited hope among her supporters but ended in tragedy. Her brother, Viserys, and father, Aerys II, both met untimely fates, leaving Rhaegar to bear the weight of expectation as the Prince Who Was Promised.
The clandestine revelation of Jon Snow’s true parentage as Rhaegar and Lyanna Stark’s son further complicates the Baratheon-Targaryen connection. Jon, now known as Aegon Targaryen, represents a blending of the two houses, his bloodline entwining the histories and destinies of both families.
The relationships between the houses have been marked by a relentless cycle of alliances, wars, and betrayals. From Robert’s Rebellion, fueled by his love for Lyanna Stark, to Cersei’s manipulation of the Crown and her marriage to Robert, the Baratheon-Targaryen connection has been fraught with tension and deceit.
These intricacies of lineage have momentous implications for the succession of the Iron Throne. With the revelations exposed, several individuals could lay claim to the throne, invoking differing interpretations of right and legitimacy.
In conclusion, the Baratheon and Targaryen relationship is a rich tapestry of history, power, and heritage. The intermingling of bloodlines has shaped the destiny of Westeros and will forever influence the course of its future. As the Game of Thrones draws to a close, it remains to be seen which claimant will ultimately ascend the Iron Throne and unite the seven kingdoms.