The Children of Aerys II Targaryen: Legends and Legends Unveiled

Loading the mythological backdrop of the Targaryen lineage

In the chronicles of Westeros, the Targaryens stand as one of the most notable and influential houses. One of the central figures of their legacy is Aerys II Targaryen, the ruler during the reign of A Song of Ice and Fire and Game of Thrones. This article delves into the lesser-known aspects of Aerys' children and the truth behind the numbers and names mentioned in the source material.

Legitimate Children of Aerys II

According to the canonical history of Westeros, Aerys II Targaryen had three legitimate children. These were Rhaegar, Viserys, and Daenerys (as mentioned in the books but not the show). Rhaegar was the heir to the throne, who became the center of intrigue due to his mysterious disappearance and return to Dragonstone. Viserys was the second-born, a bannerman and loyalist to Aerys in the early years of his reign. Daenerys, the youngest, also known as Dany, was not to be seen until much later, having been kept hidden in the Narrow Sea.

The Myth and Reality of Rhaegar's Other Child

Many theories and fan theories have circulated about Rhaegar Targaryen having another child, often lumping Jon Snow in as a possibility. However, no such entrenchment in canon exists. To date, the texts and epics by George R.R. Martin provide no evidence to support such a claim. Fire and Blood, the official history book in Westeros, mentions Rhaegar’s lineage but does not allude to any children beyond his known ones.

The Frailties of the Queenly Consort

Aerys II Targaryen's queen, Rhaella, was renowned for her longevity and fertility issues. Although Aerys did father several bastards and even legitimized some on his deathbed, it is unlikely that Rhaella could have produced another legitimate child beyond the three mentioned above without violating the physiological limits of human fertility.

Legitimization and Blackfyre Rebellions

Aegon IV Targaryen, the king's father, had several daughters, including Daenerys, who was thus a different Daenerys from the show. Aegon IV also fathered many bastards, among which were Daemon Blackfyre and Brynden Rivers (Bloodraven), whose legitimation led to the infamous Blackfyre rebellions. The legitimization of bastards was a common practice in Westerosi politics, especially to solidify power and legitimize succession claims.

Conclusion and Additional Insights

In summary, Aerys II Targaryen had three legitimate children: Rhaegar, Viserys, and Daenerys. While Aegon IV Targaryen had numerous bastards, there is no canonical evidence to support the existence of another child of Aerys II beyond the three listed. Further exploration of Westerosi history reveals that Aegon IV's legitimization of bastards played a pivotal role in causing the Blackfyre rebellions, highlighting the complex political landscape of the era.

For those interested in delving deeper into the Targaryen lineage and the rituals of Westerosi politics, Fire and Blood and other books by George R.R. Martin provide a rich and detailed narrative. Through these resources, one can gain a more nuanced understanding of the Targaryen family and the tumultuous times they ruled.