It Didn't Bother Them That Madmen and Tyrants Were Born: We Explain Why the Targaryens from 'House of the Dragon' Married Each Other
This tradition had selfish motives.
The main characters of the series House of the Dragon, the Targaryens are a unique dynasty that ruled Westeros for 300 years. They stood out not only because they knew how to control dragons, but also because of one unusual tradition: their marriages were concluded exclusively between relatives. Where did this practice come from and what was it caused by?
Maintaining power and status
The Targaryens came to Westeros as conquerors, which means they had to not only hold the throne, but also prove their chosenness. They did not want to mix blood with local lords, so as not to lose their uniqueness. As long as the dynasty remained "pure", no one could challenge their right to the throne.
Belief in prophecy and superstitions
According to ancient legends, the "Promised Prince" was to be born in the Targaryen family, who would save the world. In order for the prophecy to come true, it was necessary to keep the blood pure. Many believed that only a Targaryen of Targaryen could become the savior, so marriages with outsiders were forbidden.
Dragons and Blood Magic
The Targaryens controlled dragons for a reason, they believed that the ability to subdue fire-breathing creatures was passed down through blood. If they began to marry into other families, this could weaken the connection of their descendants with dragons. And without dragons, the Targaryen power would lose its strength and meaning.
A system of power without external influence
Usually, the kings of Westeros entered into alliances with other houses to strengthen their position. But the Targaryens did not need allies, their power was based on the fear of dragons. If they intermarried with the lords of Westeros, this could give outsiders the opportunity to claim the throne.
The consequences of incest
But everything could not go smoothly forever. Over time, the Targaryens began to have problems due to constant intermarriage, producing unstable and mad rulers. The most notable example is Aerys II, the Mad King, whose cruelty led to the overthrow of the dynasty.
How did this ultimately ruin them?
The Targaryens stubbornly clung to their tradition, but in the end it played a cruel joke on them. A weakened line, internal conflicts and betrayals made them vulnerable. With the dragons gone and no more sane heirs, their power crumbled like sand under the onslaught of foreign ambitions.
