The Targaryens are one of the most influential families in Game of Thrones lore. They also are the smartest and most formidable, especially with their history of raising dragons. Most fans only know the vast family tree representing the Targaryen clan. Now, with the introduction of House of the Dragon, we meet many more members of the Targaryen family.
However, many wonder how Daenerys might be related to Princess Rhaenyra. This is especially so since House of the Dragon takes place 200 years before the events of Game of Thrones and 172 years before Daenerys was born.
At this point in Westeros’ history, the Targaryens family tree and their dragons are still in firm control of the realm. This blog post will tell you everything you should know before you watch the series.
What is the history of the Targaryen Family?
Before you can understand the premise of House of the Dragon, it’s first necessary to look at the family’s early history in Westeros. Targaryens came to Westeros after their original home on the continent of Esso was destroyed by The Doom of Valyria, a catastrophic event. With a family tree spanning 16 generations, it’s hard to trace every family member, but the family tree was started by King Aegon I Targaryen. Also known as Aegon the Conqueror, he was the first to join and conquer all of Westeros with his three dragons.
Who’s the main character in the GOT spin-off?
So what characters are introduced in House of the Dragon? Let’s review the members of the tree below:
King Viserys I Targaryen:
King Viserys I Targaryen is the ruler of the Seven Kingdoms when the House of the Dragon begins. Grandson and chosen heir of King I, he faces two primary responsibilities. The first is to maintain the general prosperity established by his grandfather—considering that peace and prosperity were always weak in Targaryen times. The second is to appoint a strong successor. However, as Jaehaerys’ eldest grandson, Viserys was named in his place.
Aemma Arryn:
When the show begins, Aemma spends most of the premiere pregnant in an attempt to give him a son and an heir under pressure from King Viserys. Aemma gives birth to the child (who dies shortly after) and dies in the process.
Baelon Targaryen:
Belon Targaryen is the son of King Viserys I Targaryen and Aemma Arryn. Unfortunately, his time as heir to the king was brief.
Prince Jacaerys Velaryon:
Jacaerys Velaryon is the eldest son of Rhaenyra and Lenor. He is second in line to the Iron Throne after his mother. Known as the “Prince of Dragonstone” and nicknamed “Jace,” Jacaerys and his brother are reputed to be the bastard children of Rainera’s guard, Harvin Strong, who was born out of wedlock.
Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen:
Princess Rhaenyra, the only daughter of King Viserys and Arryn, is destined to become a key player in this series. She’s a vital branch in the Targaryens family tree. In the debut episode, we saw that Rhaenyra was appointed King Viserys’ successor after the death of her little brother (and her mother). However, it’s strongly implied that we haven’t heard the final questions about the succession, with her uncle Prince Daemon, Aunt Rhaenys, and her younger brother Prince Aegon emerging as possible challengers. She is married to Laenor Valyrion, though she is caught up in a love triangle with her uncle Daemon and the commander of the City Watch, Ser Harwin Strong. She has three children, Jacaerys, Lucerys, and Joffrey Velaryon.
Prince Lucerys Velaryon:
Rhaenyra and Laenor’s second child, Lucerys, is nicknamed “Luke”, and although he is presented as legit, he is also, in fact, the “bastard” son of Harvin Strong. Therefore, there are many other members of the House of Dragon and Games Of Thrones, and without them, the Targaryen Family Tree will not be completed.
The Bottom Line:
So, it’s a concise family tree that includes the most recent members of the Targaryen clan. House of the Dragon introduces an exciting new cast of characters, perfect for taking this Game of Thrones spin-off to spectacular heights. However, we hope this guide helps make the series more accessible. Tell us in the comments what details you think are worth mentioning about the Targaryen family.
