Why Did Aegon Marry his Sister
As we explore the intricate web of relationships within the Targaryen family tree, one question that often arises is: Why did Aegon marry his sister? This intriguing union between siblings has perplexed many, but understanding the historical and cultural context sheds light on this controversial decision.
In order to preserve their bloodline and maintain their dragonlord heritage, the Targaryens practiced a tradition known as “brother-sister marriage.” By keeping their lineage pure and free from outside influences, they believed they could harness the power of their ancient dragon-riding ancestors. This was especially crucial for Aegon the Conqueror, who sought to establish a new dynasty in Westeros.
The Targaryens’ close relationship with dragons added another layer to this complex dynamic. Dragons were not only powerful weapons of war but also symbolized a deep bond with magic. Marrying within the family ensured that these magical creatures remained under their control and strengthened their connection to them.
While such unions may seem unconventional or even taboo by our standards, it’s important to remember that customs and values differ across cultures and time periods. The Targaryens’ motivations were rooted in tradition, power dynamics, and an unwavering commitment to safeguarding their legacy.
By delving into the reasons behind Aegon’s marriage to his sister within the Targaryen family tree, we gain insight into the complexities of this ancient dynasty’s history. It serves as a reminder that understanding historical practices requires us to look beyond our own societal norms and embrace a broader perspective.
The Targaryen Family Tree: A Brief Overview
The Targaryen family tree is a complex web of connections that spans generations and holds many secrets. One of the most intriguing aspects of this family tree is the practice of intermarriage between siblings, particularly exemplified by Aegon Targaryen’s marriage to his sister.
- The Origins of House Targaryen: House Targaryen traces its origins back to Old Valyria, a powerful empire in Essos known for its dragonlords. After the Doom of Valyria, Aegon and his sisters, Visenya and Rhaenys, fled to Westeros with their dragons and established their rule over the Seven Kingdoms.
- The Tradition of Sibling Marriages: In Valyrian culture, sibling marriages were not uncommon as a means to preserve bloodlines and maintain dragon-riding abilities. This tradition was brought over by the Targaryens when they settled in Westeros.
- Aegon’s Marriage to His Sister: Aegon’s decision to marry both Visenya and Rhaenys sparked controversy among the noble houses of Westeros. However, it solidified House Targaryen’s claim to power and helped them maintain control over their dragons.
- The Consequences: While some viewed these sibling marriages as incestuous and morally wrong, others saw them as necessary for preserving the purity of the bloodline and ensuring strong offspring with dragon-riding abilities.
- Succession Challenges: Despite concerns about potential genetic abnormalities resulting from sibling marriages, House Targaryen continued this practice for several generations. However, it also led to challenges in determining rightful succession when multiple branches emerged from these unions.
- The Decline of Dragonlords: Over time, as dragons became extinct and intermarriages with other houses increased, the necessity for sibling marriages diminished within House Targaryen. The last known sibling marriage occurred between Maegor the Cruel and his niece Rhaena.
In conclusion, the Targaryen family tree is a fascinating study in the dynamics of power, tradition, and the consequences of intermarriage. While Aegon’s decision to marry his sisters may seem perplexing by modern standards, it was rooted in Valyrian customs and their desire to maintain their dragon-riding heritage.
