Are Targaryens Human or a Distinct Species Like the Night King?

The Targaryens, a noble family in the realm of Westeros, have long captivated the imaginations of fans and scholars alike. In contrast, the Night King represents a different kind of being, one associated with the White Walkers, a race of creatures steeped in supernatural lore. This article delves into the nature of Targaryens and their place within the lore of Westeros, examining whether they are a unique species or simply humans with distinct traits.

What Makes the Targaryens Different?

Although the Targaryens are unequivocally human, their physical characteristics set them apart from the common folk. They possess a silver hair and purple eyes, traits that make them stand out. Their origins trace back to the continent of Essos, specifically the ancient empire of Valyria.

The Valyrian Legacy and Magic

The Targaryens descend from the Valyrian people. For thousands of years, Valyria was the dominant civilization on Essos, known for its powerful empire and fearsome dragons. The Valyrian Freehold was a formidable force, until its collapse in an event known as the Doom of Valyria.

Migration to Essos and the Iron Throne

Before the Doom struck, the Targaryens had already left Valyria. They lived on the island of Dragonstone for centuries until Aegon the Conqueror and his sisters rode their dragons to conquer the Seven Kingdoms. House Targaryen, with its seat at Dragonstone, has since ruled as the Kings on the Iron Throne, founding King's Landing and the famous Iron Throne.

While Targaryens share human traits, their unique physical features and historical context have led some to speculate about their true nature. However, their human heritage is explicitly stated within the lore. The focus on being a magical human race is a Point of Entry within the lore, but it is important to remember that Targaryens are not a distinct species but rather a highly unique subset of humans.

Unique Features of Targaryens

Valyrians, as a whole, possess a mix of human and magical traits. The Targaryen strain, however, is notable for its propensity towards dragonriding. Dragonriding, which is a unique special bond between humans and dragons, is a skill that runs in the blood of a select few Valyrian families. The ability to ride and control dragons is hereditary, but it remains actively dormant in some members and becomes fully realized in others.

Dragonriding and the Dragonlords

The practice of riding dragons is closely related to another unique ability in the Valyrian culture: warging. Both these abilities involve a deep bond between a human and an animal, but dragonriding requires the use of spells and magical tools, while warging is a natural ability that can be inherited.

Much like how the lore of Westeros includes tales of elves and other mythical beings, the Valyrian people have a rich tapestry of traditions and mythology. Silver hair and purple eyes, however, are physical traits, not markers of a different species. The Targaryens are humans with a history, culture, and unique heritage that sets them apart.

Comparing to Other Human Groups in Westeros

The existence and appearance of the Targaryens might seem unusual, but the Known World is far more diverse than commonly imagined. Other human groups in Essos, such as the inhabitants of the island of Leng who have golden eyes and stand 7 to 8 feet tall, or the hairless folk of the Thousand Islands, also have distinctive physical traits. The Valyrian people, with their silver hair and purple eyes, are not so unique when placed in the context of the entire continent of Essos.

Compared to the more exotic and racially distinct populations in Essos, the Targaryens appear more human. They share many of the same base human traits but have unique protective and cultural adaptation to their environment. Unlike the Night King and the White Walkers, who possess supernatural abilities and appear to be a different kind of being, the Targaryens are part of the same human race, albeit with a rich and magical legacy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Targaryens may have unique traits and a rich cultural heritage, they are unequivocally human. The Valyrian roots of the Targaryen family set them apart, but they remain within the bounds of humanity. The silver hair and purple eyes of the Targaryens are simply physical characteristics that highlight their unique place within the lore of Westeros. Whether they are a unique human race or simply a highly distinct subset, the Targaryens are an integral part of the rich tapestry of Westerosi history and culture.