In the universe created by George R.R. Martin called “A Song of Ice and Fire” and its TV adaptations, there is a family named the Targaryens. They are one of the most interesting and mysterious families. The Targaryens are known for having silver hair and purple eyes. They also have a controversial tradition of marrying within their family. This tradition has fascinated and puzzled many fans.
The TV show “House of the Dragon” on HBO explores this family in more detail, especially focusing on why they have these unique marriage practices.
What is Ancient Valyrian Traditions All About?
The Targaryen family originally came from an old and advanced society called Valyria. This ancient civilization was very powerful and was known for its incredible skills with dragons and magic. In Valyria, it was common for noble families to marry within their own families.
They did this to keep their bloodlines pure. People believed that by marrying close relatives, they could preserve their magical powers and ensure that the ability to ride dragons stayed in the family. For the Targaryens, marrying within the family was not only a way to keep their special abilities and traits but also a part of their political strategy. Also read George R.R. Martin’s House of the Dragon Season 2 Episode 1 Review, Who are the House of The Dragon Characters and the Greatest Possible Ruler? and House of the Dragon Season 2 Release Date.
Why Did Targaryens married each other?
One of the main reasons why the Targaryens married members of their own family was to keep their dragonlord bloodline pure. Dragons were very important symbols of power and control in both Westeros and Essos. The ability to tame and ride these magnificent creatures was crucial for maintaining the Targaryens’ influence and power.
By marrying within their own family, they made sure that their children and grandchildren would continue to have the ability to ride dragons. This special ability was believed to be connected to their Valyrian blood. The Targaryens thought that this practice of intermarrying was necessary for their survival and for keeping their dominance over others. Also read House Of The Dragon Season 1, and My Father’s Dragon is OFFICIALLY Announced to Release!
Is There Political Strategy and Stability?
Besides keeping their bloodline pure, the Targaryens also married within their family as a way to use it as a political tool. By having family members marry each other, they kept their family ties very close. This helped them minimize threats from outside their family and made it less likely that other families could form political alliances that might weaken their rule.
This strategy was meant to keep power concentrated within the Targaryen family and stop rival groups from gaining influence through marriage. It also made sure that their wealth and resources stayed under the control of the Targaryen family.
How About Cultural and Religious Beliefs?
The Targaryens had cultural and religious reasons for their marriage practices as well. They worshipped the Valyrian gods, who were believed to support and endorse such unions. By following these old customs, the Targaryens thought they were honoring their ancestors and keeping alive the traditions that had brought them success and power.
They believed that by marrying within their own family, they were upholding the customs that had made their family strong. This belief system made them feel that their marriage practices were not only necessary but also approved by their gods.
The Downside of Inbreeding
Even though the Targaryens thought their practice of marrying within the family had many benefits, there were also significant problems that came with it. Over many generations, inbreeding led to various health issues among family members, both physical and mental.
For example, King Aerys II, who was also known as the Mad King, suffered from severe mental instability. His erratic and dangerous behavior played a big part in the downfall of the Targaryen dynasty. In addition to mental health problems, inbreeding also caused physical issues. There were many instances of stillbirths and deformities among Targaryen children. These problems showed the serious risks that came with their practice of intermarriage within the family.
“House of the Dragon” and Targaryen Marriages
“House of the Dragon,” a TV series set hundreds of years before the events of “Game of Thrones,” gives a detailed look at the Targaryen dynasty when it was at its strongest. The series explores the complex reasons behind their marriage traditions and the consequences that came from them.
It offers viewers a deeper understanding of why the Targaryens chose to marry within their own family. By examining these aspects, the show helps explain the motivations of the Targaryens and the eventual results of their actions. It shows why the Targaryens held on so firmly to their customs, even though there were clear risks involved. The series delves into the intricate details of their practices, providing insights into the challenges and benefits that came with their unique traditions.
Conclusion
The Targaryens’ practice of marrying within the family was influenced by several important factors. First, it was a part of their cultural heritage. They followed the traditions of their ancestors from Valyria. Second, it was a political strategy. By marrying each other, they kept power and wealth within the family and avoided external threats. Third, they wanted to preserve their unique dragonlord abilities.
These practices helped the Targaryens stay powerful for many centuries, but they also led to their eventual downfall. The TV series “House of the Dragon” shows this complicated history. It provides fans with a detailed story that explains the true reasons behind this controversial aspect of the Targaryen dynasty.
By watching the series, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of Targaryen rule. They learn about the various factors that shaped the Targaryens’ legacy and see how these factors were intertwined in an intricate web that ultimately influenced the family’s fate.
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