'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms': Targaryens' Family Tree in the Show, Explained
The fates of entire dynasties, which we already know from the future of Westeros, are dependent on the decisions of these individuals.
The new Game of Thrones spinoff, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, takes viewers back to a relatively peaceful time in Westeros, a century before the events of the original series.
The story centers on the Ashford Tourney, where prominent figures of the ruling dynasty convene.
To unravel the intricacies of their family ties, titles, and destinies, we're exploring the Targaryens' family tree.
Daeron II Targaryen
The reigning monarch is King Daeron II, known as the Good. He is the great-grandson of Rhaenyra and Daemon Targaryen from House Targaryen. His greatest achievement was the bloodless annexation of Dorne to the Seven Kingdoms through his marriage to Princess Myriah Martell.
Daeron favors diplomacy over war, earning his nickname and ushering in a period of stability. He has not yet appeared on-screen in person.
Baelor Targaryen
Prince Baelor, the son of Daeron II, is one of the series' central figures. He combines the roles of heir to the throne and Hand of the King.
Baelor embodies the ideal ruler, being a wise politician, skilled warrior, and noble man. He earned his nickname, Breakspear, by defeating Daemon Blackfyre in combat.
Baelor is married to Jena Dondarrion. Although his direct line will die out, the main branch of the dynasty will continue through his brother.
Valarr Targaryen
Baelor's eldest son, Valarr, emerges as a young, talented knight and a favorite at tournaments. His fate is sealed: he will marry Kiera of Tyrosh, but their children will not survive.
Tragically, Valarr, his father Baelor, and his brother Matarys will die during the Great Spring Sickness, marking a turning point in the line of succession.
Maekar Targaryen
Prince Maekar, the fourth son of Daeron II, is the polar opposite of his brother, Baelor. Stern, warlike, and reclusive, he is the Prince of Summerhall.
His line will prove to be the most significant in the future. He married Lady Dyanna Dayne, and his children Aemon and Aegon will become important figures. Through Aegon, Maekar becomes the direct ancestor of Robert, Stannis, and Renly Baratheon.
Through the subsequent marriages of his descendants, he is also the ancestor of Rhaegar and Daenerys Targaryen and, therefore, Jon Snow.
Aerion Targaryen
Maekar's second son, Aerion, embodies the most dangerous form of Targaryen madness. He is known as the Brightflame and is infamous for his cruelty and sadism.
His belief that he is a dragon in human form ultimately leads to his tragic death. Although his line continues through his son Maegor, his heirs will not play a prominent role in history.
Aemon Targaryen
Maekar's third son, Aemon, would become the Maester Aemon from Game of Thrones. The series begins at the start of his journey to the Citadel, where he was sent to reduce the number of potential claimants to the throne.
Later, when his turn came, he abdicated the crown, remaining true to his Maester's vows. His long life serves as a bridge between this era and the events leading to the War of the Five Kings.
