The Duration and Tragedy of Rhaegar and Elia Martell’s Marriage

Rhaegar Targaryen and Princess Elia Martell's marriage, though tragically short, remains one of the most significant events in the world of A Song of Ice and Fire. According to historical records, their union lasted approximately 3 years. This article delves into the timeline of their marriage, highlighting the key events that marked the beginning, climax, and tragic end of their relationship.

Timeline of Their Marriage

279 AC: Arrangement During Rhaenys’s Childhood

It is noted that the marriage between Rhaegar and Elia was arranged when Rhaenys was young, likely around the age of 10. While these unions were common during the era of the Targaryens, the exact year of the official betrothal is not provided but is inferred to have occurred in the late 270s AC.

281 AC: Tourney at Harrenhal

The first significant public event involving Rhaegar and Elia was the Tourney at Harrenhal. During this event, Rhaegar's legacy and his promise were celebrated. He famously gifted a coronet to Lyanna Stark, crowning her as the "Queen of Love and Beauty." This act of chivalry was a grand and romantic gesture, but behind it lay a personal indiscretion that would have grave consequences for Elia's happiness and well-being.

The Marriage and Birth of Prince Aegon

280 AC: Rhaegar’s Marital Status

Rhaegar was married to Elia in 280 AC. Exactly when this marriage took place is a matter of debate among historians. Some sources suggest that it may have been in 279 AC, shortly after the betrothal was arranged.

282 AC: Birth and Near-Death of Prince Aegon

Just two years into their marriage, Elia gave birth in early 282 AC to their son, Prince Aegon. However, the joy of their son's birth was quickly followed by tragedy. Elia, still recovering from the difficult birth, contracted a serious illness. Despite the best medical care available, she nearly died.

282 AC: The Fateful Journey

Rhaegar, driven by a sense of duty and possibly some lingering guilt over the slight he had given Elia at the Tourney, decided to take Elia and the newborn Prince Aegon on a cleansing journey to Dragonstone. This journey marked a turning point in their relationship, as events would come to light that would further exacerbate the couple's troubles.

The Tragic End

283 AC: The Rebellion and Tragic Events

The marriage between Rhaegar and Elia was abruptly ended by the outbreak of Robert's Rebellion in 283 AC. As the war raged on, Rhaegar, along with Prince Aegon and Elia, found themselves in a precarious position. The events that followed were both terrifying and tragic.

Elia was horrifically murdered by Ser Gregor Clegane, who also cut Prince Aegon in half. This brutal act of violence brought an end to the lives of Elia and the little prince.

Legacy of the Marriage

While their marriage was a short one, Rhaegar and Elia's union left an indelible mark on the A Song of Ice and Fire universe. Their legacy is one of both beauty and tragedy. For those who believed Aegon might have survived, Daenerys Targaryen considered the possibility of a future marriage, given their shared Targaryen heritage. However, reality was as grim as the fates of the couple themselves.

Conclusion

Although Rhaegar and Elia Martell’s marriage was brief, lasting only 3 years from their official union in 280 AC until their gruesome deaths in 283 AC, it stands as a poignant reminder of the intense circumstances and personal dilemmas faced by the Targaryen dynasty. This article offers a concise timeline of their relationship, exploring the key events and providence that defined their tragic journey.