The Origins and Purpose of Dragons in House of the Dragon
Delving into the enigmatic world of House of the Dragon, we explore the origins and purpose of dragons. This article examines the historical context and significance of dragons in the Targaryen lineage from their early days in Valyria to their role in the rise and fall of the Valyrian Empire and the Seven Kingdoms.
The Valyrian Empire and the Gift of Dragons
In the grand historical tapestry of Westeros, the Targaryens have always had a unique connection with dragons. The exact origins of this gift are shrouded in mystery, but it is known that the Targaryens possessed dragons long before the Doom of Valyria and continued to do so after the catastrophic event that marked the end of the Valyrian Empire.
Originally, the Targaryens were a minor house within the Freehold of Valyria, distinguished enough to be dragonriders like the House Velaryon. However, the Velaryons did not possess dragons, instead relying on their ships for power. The Targaryens, on the other hand, were instrumental in expanding the Valyrian Empire, despite their relatively small number of dragons compared to the other Great Houses.
The Discovery and Tame of Dragons
The discovery of dragons can be traced back to a period thousands of years ago on the Valyrian Peninsula. A tribe of farmers stumbled upon these formidable creatures and, over centuries, managed to tame them using magic. Through this bonding, the Valyrians formed a powerful and fearsome army, using dragons to forge their capital and conquer entire kingdoms.
Before the Doom of Valyria, the Targaryens faced exodus from the capital due to a court mishap. This was fortuitous, as one of the Targaryen family members, Lady Daenys, prophesied the destruction of Valyria, leading the family to sever ties with the empire and move to Dragonstone, an island fortress.
Dragons in the Rise and Fall of the Targaryens
At Dragonstone, the Targaryens maintained their dragons and eventually seized control of the Seven Kingdoms. The dragons played a pivotal role in their conquest, but their usage diminished over time. They were primarily used as a deterrent to prevent rebellion, leading to a decline in their size and health.
The civil war within House Targaryen eventually led to the extinction of the last remaining dragons, marking the end of an era. This not only signified the decline of dragon usage but also the end of the Valyrian bloodline in Westeros.
Conclusion
The legacy of dragons in House of the Dragon is deeply rooted in the histories of both the Valyrian Empire and the Targaryen lineage. From their discovery by a tribe of farmers to their use in expanding the empire, and their final tragic extinction, dragons have played a significant role in the story of Westeros. Understanding their purpose and origin provides a richer context for the characters and events in the franchise.