Why Aemon Targaryen Never Reached Out to Daenerys During Her Rise to Power: A Complex Analysis

In George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, Aemon Targaryen's character remains shrouded in mystery and complexity. This analysis delves into the intricate reasons why he never reached out to his niece, Daenerys Targaryen, during her journey to political power in Game of Thrones.

Isolation and Duty

Aemon Targaryen swore an oath to the Night's Watch, dedicating himself to a life of isolation and duty. As a member of the Night's Watch, his primary commitment was to protect the realm from threats beyond the Wall. His loyalty to this mission superseded any familial ties or personal ambitions, including his Targaryen heritage and potential claims to the throne.

Geographical Displacement

Location:

Aemon was stationed at the Wall, far removed from the political landscape of Westeros. The harsh conditions and the remote location of Castle Black made communication with his family in Essos difficult and highly unlikely.

Limitations of Information

Awareness of Events:

While Aemon, as a Maester, would have been well-informed about the happenings in the Seven Kingdoms, his privileges were limited to the raven mail system. Despite his extensive network, the relevant events in Essos received little to no attention. There was no mention of Daenerys' wedding to Khal Drogo, the birth of her dragons, or her conquests until later revelations.

Physical and Health Constraints

Aging and Health:

By the time Daenerys rose to power, Aemon was old and frail. His declining health undoubtedly constrained his ability to engage in political maneuvering or take any significant actions. His physical limitations were a significant factor in his inaction.

Complex Relationship with Targaryen Legacy

Targaryen Legacy:

Aemon had a complex relationship with the Targaryen legacy. He had seen the fall of his family and thus may have harbored hesitation in reviving dynastic struggles that had nearly destroyed his lineage. His experience with the previous Targaryen reigns may have made him wary of getting involved in the political turmoil surrounding Daenerys.

Internal Mechanisms and Communication

In the series, Aemon had the means to communicate through the maesters' network. However, the specific raven messages about Daenerys' rise to power were notably absent. The critical events in Essos, such as her wedding, dragon hatching, and conquests, were not reported to Castle Black. Only when Aemon traveled to Braavos did he receive information about Daenerys.

Samwell Tarly's Mediation

Mission Through Sam:

When Aemon learned of Daenerys in Braavos, he was determined to reach out to her. However, his age and health made a journey to Slavers' Bay impossible. Instead, he dispatched Samwell Tarly to Oldtown to inform the Archmaesters, who were expected to send a maester to the Tyroshi princess. Upon reaching Oldtown, Sam relayed this message to Archmaester Marwyn, who advised Sam to maintain silence on the matter and instead undertook the journey himself to advise Daenerys.

Church and Prophecy

Aemon's ultimate goal was to ensure that Daenerys received guidance and that the prophecy concerning the Targaryens would be fulfilled. Though he never directly reached out to Daenerys, his indirect efforts through Sam and Marwyn demonstrated his commitment to the Targaryen legacy and the prophecy.

Conclusion

Aemon Targaryen's decision to never reach out to Daenerys during her rise to power was a result of his oath, geographical isolation, health constraints, and his complex relationship with the Targaryen past. Despite these factors, Aemon's efforts to have Daenerys receive proper guidance and protection through Sam and Marwyn showcased his continued support for his family and the prophecy.