Why are Targaryens special? The Blood of the Dragon Explained
The Targaryens. The name itself conjures images of fire-breathing dragons, silver hair, and a lineage steeped in power and tragedy. But what truly makes the Targaryens stand out in the vast and often brutal world of Westeros? It's not just their dragons, though that's a huge part of it. Their uniqueness lies in a complex interplay of blood, destiny, and a certain, shall we say, *flair* for the dramatic.
The Targaryen Bloodline: More Than Just Silver Hair
The most visually striking and often-discussed aspect of Targaryen specialness is their distinctive appearance: hair of pale silver or white, and eyes that can range from violet to deep indigo. This isn't just a fashion statement; it's a direct indicator of their Valyrian ancestry. They hail from the ancient, dragon-riding civilization of Valyria, a place of immense power and magic that was ultimately destroyed in a cataclysm known as the Doom of Valyria.
The Targaryens were one of the noble houses that fled Valyria before its destruction, settling on the island of Dragonstone. This isolation, combined with their continued practice of dragon-riding and their distinct genetic makeup, allowed them to maintain traits that became synonymous with their house.
The Practice of Incest: A Controversial Foundation
This is perhaps the most controversial and, to many outsiders, disturbing aspect of Targaryen uniqueness: their long-standing tradition of incest. To preserve the "purity" of their bloodline and, crucially, to maintain their connection to dragons, Targaryens historically married brother to sister, father to daughter, and so on. This practice, while abhorrent by modern Westerosi standards (and our own!), was seen as necessary for them to retain their dragon-riding abilities and their formidable power.
Why the incest? The core belief was that by keeping their bloodlines as close as possible, they strengthened the magical connection required to bond with and control dragons. It was a pragmatic, albeit morally questionable, strategy to maintain their dominance. This close interbreeding is also believed to be the primary reason for their consistent silver hair and distinctive eye colors.
The Dragonlords: A Bond Forged in Fire
The Targaryens were not just *users* of dragons; they were Dragonlords, a title that implies a deeper, almost symbiotic relationship. They were the only known family in Westeros capable of hatching and riding dragons for centuries. This was their ultimate weapon, their ultimate advantage, and the source of much of their power and fear.
A Targaryen's ability to bond with a dragon was not guaranteed. It was often a matter of fate, bloodline strength, and perhaps something more mystical. But when it happened, it was a profound connection. Dragons were not mere beasts; they were intelligent, fiercely loyal companions, and extensions of their rider's will. The Targaryens' mastery over these magnificent creatures allowed them to conquer and rule Westeros for nearly 300 years.
The "Madness" of the Targaryens
Another infamous characteristic of the Targaryen line is the recurring phenomenon of what is often termed "Targaryen Madness." This isn't to say every Targaryen was insane, but the tendency for mental instability, extreme paranoia, or even outright delusion was noticeably prevalent within the family. The incestuous breeding practices are widely believed to have exacerbated this genetic predisposition.
Famous examples include:
- King Aerys II Targaryen (The Mad King): His descent into cruelty and paranoia led to his downfall and the end of his dynasty's rule.
- Prince Aegon (son of Jaehaerys I): Though not always explicitly labeled as "mad," his erratic behavior and descent into cult-like obsession are noted.
This "madness" was often intertwined with their power, creating terrifying rulers who were as dangerous as their dragons.
Destiny and Prophecy: The Prince That Was Promised
The Targaryens also have a deep connection to prophecies, particularly the one concerning "The Prince That Was Promised." This prophecy foretold of a hero who would unite the world against a great darkness. Many Targaryens believed they were destined to fulfill this prophecy, a belief that often fueled their ambition and sense of divine right.
This belief in destiny, combined with their unique heritage, gave them a sense of purpose that set them apart from other noble houses. They saw themselves not just as rulers, but as instruments of fate.
A Targaryen's Strengths and Weaknesses
In summary, the specialness of Targaryens can be attributed to:
- Valyrian Blood: Inherited traits like silver hair and distinctive eyes, indicative of their ancient lineage.
- Dragon Affinity: The unique ability to bond with and control dragons, their primary source of power.
- Incestuous Traditions: A controversial but historically significant practice to preserve their bloodline and dragon connection.
- Prophetic Beliefs: A strong sense of destiny and their role in fulfilling ancient prophecies.
- Genetic Predisposition: A tendency towards "madness" or mental instability, often amplified by their close breeding.
These factors combined to create a dynasty that was simultaneously revered and feared, a family whose very existence was woven with magic, power, and a tragic, fiery destiny.
Frequently Asked Questions About Targaryens
How did Targaryens become special?
The Targaryens' specialness originated from their Valyrian ancestry, a civilization known for its mastery of dragons and magic. They fled Valyria before its destruction, settling in Westeros and maintaining their unique bloodline and dragon-riding abilities through generations of isolation and, controversially, incestuous marriages. This preserved their genetic traits and their profound bond with dragons, setting them apart from all other noble houses.
Why did Targaryens practice incest?
The primary reason the Targaryens practiced incest, specifically sibling-to-sibling marriage, was to preserve the purity of their bloodline and, most importantly, to maintain their unique ability to bond with and control dragons. They believed that keeping their lineage as close as possible would strengthen the magical connection necessary for dragon riding and hatching. It was a strategic choice to ensure their continued dominance.
What does "Blood of the Dragon" mean?
"Blood of the Dragon" refers to the unique and potent lineage of the Targaryen family, inherited from their ancient Valyrian ancestors. It signifies their inherent connection to dragons, their distinct physical traits (like silver hair and violet eyes), and their potential for both great power and devastating "madness." It is the very essence of their specialness and their claim to rule.
Are all Targaryens the same?
No, not all Targaryens were the same. While they shared distinct genetic traits and a common ancestry, individual personalities, strengths, and weaknesses varied greatly. Some were wise and just rulers, while others were cruel, ambitious, or succumbed to the "madness" that plagued their family. The influence of their upbringing, personal experiences, and the specific strengths of their bloodline played a significant role in shaping each Targaryen.
