Daenerys Targaryen, also known as Daenerys Stormborn, is a central character in George R.R. Martin's epic fantasy novel series, A Song of Ice and Fire. Her captivating journey from a banished princess to a powerful queen has enthralled millions of readers and viewers alike. One of the intriguing aspects of Daenerys's story is the mystery surrounding her father's identity. This article delves into the various theories and speculations that have been put forth regarding Daenerys's paternity, exploring the clues and evidence provided in the books and the TV series.
In the world of Westeros, where the Targaryens once ruled with fire and blood, the lineage of the royal family is of paramount importance. Daenerys's father plays a crucial role in shaping her destiny, her claim to the Iron Throne, and her unique abilities as a dragon rider. As we accompany Daenerys on her quest for power and justice, uncovering the truth about her parentage becomes an integral part of understanding her motivations and her character development.
While the identity of Daenerys's father remains a subject of intense debate among fans and readers, several theories have emerged over the years, each supported by textual evidence and intriguing clues.
who is daenerys father
Unraveling the Targaryen lineage.
- Aerys II Targaryen: Mad King, possible father.
- Rhaegar Targaryen: Daenerys's brother, potential candidate.
- Elia Martell: Rhaegar's wife, mother of Rhaenys and Aegon.
- Lyanna Stark: Rhaegar's alleged lover, Jon Snow's mother.
- Brandon Stark: Lyanna's brother, Ned Stark's older brother.
- Ned Stark: Honorable Lord of Winterfell, guardian of Daenerys.
- Arthur Dayne: Kingsguard knight, close to Rhaegar.Lewyn Martell: Kingsguard knight, Dornish prince.
- Varys: Master of Whisperers, keeper of secrets.
- Illyrio Mopatis: Pentoshi merchant, Daenerys's ally.
Theories and speculations abound, truth shrouded in mystery.
Aerys II Targaryen: Mad King, possible father.
Aerys II Targaryen, also known as the Mad King, is one of the prime suspects in the mystery surrounding Daenerys's paternity. His reign was marked by paranoia, cruelty, and a descent into madness.
- Bloodline and lineage:
Aerys II belonged to the Targaryen dynasty, known for their silver hair and unique abilities, including dragon riding. Daenerys shares these traits, hinting at a possible blood relation.
- Close proximity:
At the time of Daenerys's conception, Aerys II was the reigning king, residing in King's Landing, where Daenerys's mother, Rhaella, also resided. This proximity provides an opportunity for a liaison between them.
- Questionable paternity:
Aerys II's mental instability and erratic behavior raise questions about his involvement in Daenerys's conception. Some believe he may have forced himself upon Rhaella, resulting in Daenerys's birth.
- Ambiguous timeline:
The exact timing of Daenerys's conception is unclear, further complicating the determination of her paternity. The timeline allows for the possibility that Aerys II could have been her father.
While these points suggest the possibility of Aerys II being Daenerys's father, it remains a theory among many, and the true identity of her father continues to be a subject of speculation and debate.
Rhaegar Targaryen: Daenerys's brother, potential candidate.
Rhaegar Targaryen, Daenerys's older brother, is another strong contender for her paternity. His reputation as a noble and honorable prince, coupled with certain clues and theories, makes him a compelling possibility.
- Age and timeline:
Rhaegar was born before Aerys II's descent into madness and was considered a more suitable heir to the Iron Throne. The timing of his birth aligns with the possible conception period of Daenerys.
- Prophetic dreams and visions:
Rhaegar was known for his prophetic dreams and visions, including one where he saw a three-headed dragon, which some interpret as a symbol of Daenerys and her dragons.
- Relationship with Elia Martell:
Rhaegar was officially married to Elia Martell, and they had two children together. However, rumors and theories suggest that he may have had other relationships or encounters outside of his marriage.
- Possible annulment and secret marriage:
Some believe that Rhaegar's marriage to Elia Martell may have been annulled, allowing him to potentially marry or form a relationship with another woman, leading to Daenerys's birth.
While these points provide intriguing possibilities, it's crucial to note that Rhaegar's true involvement in Daenerys's paternity remains speculative and open to debate.
Elia Martell: Rhaegar's wife, mother of Rhaenys and Aegon.
Elia Martell, princess of Dorne, was Rhaegar Targaryen's wife and the mother of his two children, Rhaenys and Aegon. Her role in the mystery surrounding Daenerys's paternity stems from various factors and theories.
Official marriage and children:
Elia and Rhaegar were officially married, and their union produced two heirs to the Iron Throne. This established Elia as a legitimate and recognized member of the Targaryen family.
Rumors of annulment and bigamy:
Despite their marriage, rumors and theories suggest that Rhaegar may have sought an annulment or engaged in bigamy. Some believe he may have had a second marriage or relationship, leading to Daenerys's birth.
Tragic fate during Robert's Rebellion:
During Robert's Rebellion, Elia and her children were brutally murdered by Ser Gregor Clegane, also known as the Mountain, acting under the orders of Tywin Lannister. This tragic event further complicates the investigation into Daenerys's paternity, as it eliminated potential witnesses and evidence.
Unresolved questions and lingering doubts:
Elia's untimely death and the subsequent destruction of House Targaryen left many unanswered questions regarding Daenerys's lineage. The ambiguity surrounding Elia's relationship with Rhaegar and the possibility of an annulment or bigamy continue to fuel speculation about Daenerys's true parentage.
While Elia Martell remains a significant figure in the discussion of Daenerys's paternity, the truth remains shrouded in mystery, with various theories and interpretations vying for attention.
Lyanna Stark: Rhaegar's alleged lover, Jon Snow's mother.
Lyanna Stark, sister of Ned Stark and aunt to Robb, Sansa, Arya, Bran, and Rickon, is a central figure in the mystery surrounding Daenerys's paternity due to her alleged relationship with Rhaegar Targaryen.
Rhaegar's alleged abduction of Lyanna:
Rhaegar Targaryen, the eldest son of King Aerys II, is believed to have abducted Lyanna Stark from her betrothed, Robert Baratheon, sparking Robert's Rebellion. The nature of their relationship is a subject of debate, with some suggesting a consensual elopement and others believing it was a kidnapping.
Birth of Jon Snow:
Lyanna gave birth to a son, Jon Snow, at the Tower of Joy in Dorne. The identity of Jon's father is heavily debated, with Rhaegar being the most prominent candidate. If Rhaegar is Jon's father, then Daenerys would be Jon's aunt.
Mystery surrounding Lyanna's death:
Lyanna died shortly after giving birth to Jon Snow, and the circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear. Some theories suggest that she died from complications during childbirth, while others speculate that she was killed or committed suicide.
Ned Stark's involvement and promise:
Ned Stark, Lyanna's brother, played a crucial role in the events following Lyanna's death. He took Jon Snow as his bastard son and raised him at Winterfell, vowing to protect the child's true parentage. This promise and the mystery surrounding Jon's birth further fuel speculation about Daenerys's paternity.
Lyanna Stark's alleged relationship with Rhaegar Targaryen and the subsequent birth of Jon Snow have significantly contributed to the intrigue and uncertainty surrounding Daenerys's true lineage.
Brandon Stark: Lyanna's brother, Ned Stark's older brother.
Brandon Stark, the eldest son of Lord Rickard Stark and heir to Winterfell, played a significant role in the events leading up to Daenerys's birth and the subsequent mystery surrounding her paternity.
- Betrothal to Catelyn Tully:
Brandon was betrothed to Catelyn Tully, the eldest daughter of Lord Hoster Tully of Riverrun. This betrothal was part of an alliance between the Starks and the Tullys, two powerful houses in Westeros.
- Rhaegar Targaryen's alleged abduction of Lyanna:
When Rhaegar Targaryen allegedly abducted Lyanna Stark, Brandon rode to King's Landing to demand her release. He was arrested along with his companions by King Aerys II Targaryen and subsequently executed.
- Ned Stark's response:
Brandon's death and Lyanna's abduction prompted Ned Stark, Brandon's younger brother, to call the banners and join Robert Baratheon's rebellion against the Targaryens. This rebellion ultimately led to the overthrow of Aerys II and the end of the Targaryen dynasty.
- Legacy and impact on Daenerys's paternity:
Brandon Stark's actions and death had a profound impact on the events surrounding Daenerys's birth. His betrothal to Catelyn Tully and subsequent death left Catelyn free to marry Ned Stark, leading to the birth of Robb, Sansa, Arya, Bran, and Rickon. Additionally, Brandon's role in Robert's Rebellion and the fall of the Targaryens shaped the political landscape of Westeros and influenced the lives of Daenerys and her family.
While Brandon Stark is not directly involved in the mystery of Daenerys's paternity, his actions and legacy played a crucial role in shaping the events that led to her birth and the subsequent struggle for the Iron Throne.
Ned Stark: Honorable Lord of Winterfell, guardian of Daenerys.
Ned Stark, the Lord of Winterfell and Warden of the North, played a complex and significant role in the life of Daenerys Targaryen, influencing her destiny and the mystery surrounding her paternity.
- Raising Jon Snow as his bastard son:
Ned Stark took in Jon Snow, the alleged son of Rhaegar Targaryen and Lyanna Stark, as his bastard son and raised him at Winterfell. He kept the secret of Jon's true parentage to protect him from the dangers that awaited him as a Targaryen.
- Promise to Lyanna Stark:
Ned Stark made a promise to his dying sister, Lyanna, to protect her son, Jon Snow. This promise motivated him to raise Jon as his own and shield him from the political turmoil and threats surrounding the Targaryen lineage.
- Uncovering the truth about Daenerys:
In his quest to uncover the truth about Daenerys's identity, Ned Stark traveled to King's Landing as the Hand of the King. He discovered that Daenerys was the daughter of King Aerys II Targaryen and Queen Rhaella Targaryen, making her the rightful heir to the Iron Throne.
- Protecting Daenerys from Robert Baratheon:
Knowing that King Robert Baratheon intended to kill Daenerys and her brother Viserys to eliminate any potential threats to his rule, Ned Stark made arrangements to smuggle Daenerys out of Westeros and into Essos. This act demonstrated his commitment to protecting the Targaryen bloodline and ensuring Daenerys's safety.
Ned Stark's actions and decisions regarding Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen were driven by his sense of honor, duty, and compassion. His role as her guardian and protector shaped Daenerys's life and influenced her journey towards reclaiming the Iron Throne.
Arthur Dayne: Kingsguard knight, close to Rhaegar.
Arthur Dayne, also known as the Sword of the Morning, was a legendary Kingsguard knight and a close confidant of Prince Rhaegar Targaryen. His involvement in the events surrounding Daenerys's birth and lineage has led to speculation about his potential role in her paternity.
- Elite Kingsguard knight:
Arthur Dayne was one of the most skilled and respected knights in Westeros, earning him a place in the Kingsguard, an elite group of knights sworn to protect the king and his family.
- Close relationship with Rhaegar Targaryen:
Arthur Dayne was particularly close to Prince Rhaegar Targaryen. They shared a deep bond of friendship and trust, and Dayne was known for his unwavering loyalty to the prince.
- Presence at the Tower of Joy:
When Lyanna Stark was allegedly abducted by Rhaegar Targaryen, Arthur Dayne was stationed at the Tower of Joy in Dorne, guarding Lyanna. His presence there during this crucial event has fueled speculation about his involvement in the events surrounding Daenerys's birth.
- Battle at the Tower of Joy:
Ned Stark and his companions confronted Arthur Dayne and the other Kingsguard knights at the Tower of Joy in an attempt to rescue Lyanna. In the ensuing battle, Dayne fought valiantly but was ultimately defeated by Ned Stark, who was aided by his companions.
Arthur Dayne's close relationship with Rhaegar Targaryen, his presence at the Tower of Joy, and his involvement in the battle there have all contributed to theories and speculation about his potential role in Daenerys's paternity. However, the truth remains shrouded in mystery, and Dayne's exact involvement, if any, may never be fully known.
Varys: Master of Whisperers, keeper of secrets.
Varys, also known as the Spider, is a mysterious and enigmatic figure in the world of Westeros. As the Master of Whisperers, he is the keeper of secrets and has a vast network of informants and spies. His involvement in the mystery surrounding Daenerys's paternity stems from his proximity to power and his knowledge of hidden truths.
Keeper of secrets and hidden knowledge:
Varys is known for his extensive knowledge of secrets and hidden agendas. He has a vast network of informants and spies, allowing him to gather information that others may not have access to. This knowledge makes him a valuable asset to those seeking to uncover the truth about Daenerys's lineage.
Loyalties and motivations:
Varys's loyalties and motivations are complex and often unclear. He has served under multiple kings and regimes, and his ultimate goal remains shrouded in mystery. Some believe he seeks to maintain stability and balance in Westeros, while others suspect he has his own hidden agenda.
Potential involvement in Rhaegar's plans:
Some theories suggest that Varys may have been aware of or even involved in Prince Rhaegar Targaryen's plans and actions leading up to Daenerys's birth. His proximity to the royal family and his extensive network of informants may have given him knowledge of Rhaegar's relationship with Lyanna Stark and the subsequent events.
Possible manipulation and hidden agendas:
Varys is known for his manipulative nature and his ability to influence events from behind the scenes. It is possible that he played a role in shaping the circumstances surrounding Daenerys's birth or her subsequent journey, though his true intentions and actions remain unclear.
Varys's enigmatic nature and his vast knowledge of secrets make him a compelling figure in the mystery of Daenerys's paternity. His potential involvement and hidden agendas add another layer of intrigue to the already complex web of theories and speculations.
Illyrio Mopatis: Pentoshi merchant, Daenerys's ally.
Illyrio Mopatis, a wealthy and influential merchant from the city of Pentos, played a significant role in Daenerys Targaryen's life and her quest to reclaim the Iron Throne. His involvement in the mystery surrounding her paternity stems from his close association with Daenerys and his potential knowledge of her lineage.
- Financial and political support:
Illyrio Mopatis provided financial and political support to Daenerys during her exile in Essos. He helped her acquire the Unsullied army and arranged her marriage to Khal Drogo, the leader of the Dothraki. This support was crucial in Daenerys's rise to power and her eventual invasion of Westeros.
- Knowledge of Daenerys's lineage:
Illyrio Mopatis may have had knowledge of Daenerys's true parentage. As a wealthy and well-connected merchant, he likely had access to information and secrets that others did not. Some believe he may have known about Daenerys's Targaryen lineage and potentially even facilitated her birth or upbringing.
- Motives and hidden agendas:
Illyrio Mopatis's motives and hidden agendas are not entirely clear. He is known for his shrewd business sense and his ability to manipulate events to his advantage. It is possible that he saw an opportunity to gain power and influence by supporting Daenerys's claim to the Iron Throne.
- Potential involvement in Rhaegar's plans:
Some theories suggest that Illyrio Mopatis may have been involved in Prince Rhaegar Targaryen's plans leading up to Daenerys's birth. His close ties to Pentos and his extensive торговые сети may have facilitated Rhaegar's movements and actions during that time.
Illyrio Mopatis's role as Daenerys's ally and his potential knowledge of her lineage make him a significant figure in the mystery of her paternity. His motivations, hidden agendas, and involvement in the events surrounding Daenerys's birth continue to fuel speculation and debate among fans of the series.
FAQ
The mystery surrounding Daenerys Targaryen's paternity has captivated fans of the A Song of Ice and Fire series and the Game of Thrones TV show. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about this intriguing topic:
Question 1: Who are the main contenders for Daenerys's father?
Answer: The primary candidates for Daenerys's father are Aerys II Targaryen, Rhaegar Targaryen, and potentially other individuals, depending on various theories and speculations.
Question 2: What evidence supports Aerys II Targaryen's paternity?
Answer: Some believe that Aerys II's proximity to Daenerys's mother, Rhaella Targaryen, at the time of her conception, as well as his unstable mental state, could suggest his involvement.
Question 3: Why is Rhaegar Targaryen considered a potential father?
Answer: Rhaegar's alleged relationship with Lyanna Stark, coupled with his prophetic dreams and visions, has led some to believe that he may have fathered Daenerys, either through a marriage or an extramarital affair.
Question 4: What role did Lyanna Stark play in Daenerys's paternity?
Answer: Lyanna's alleged relationship with Rhaegar Targaryen and the subsequent birth of Jon Snow have contributed to the mystery surrounding Daenerys's lineage, as Jon's parentage could potentially shed light on Daenerys's true father.
Question 5: How did Ned Stark's actions influence Daenerys's paternity?
Answer: Ned Stark's decision to raise Jon Snow as his bastard son and protect Daenerys from Robert Baratheon's attempts to kill her has added complexity to the mystery of her paternity.
Question 6: What theories exist about other potential fathers of Daenerys?
Answer: Various theories suggest that Daenerys's father could be someone other than Aerys II or Rhaegar Targaryen, including Arthur Dayne, Varys, or Illyrio Mopatis, though evidence for these theories is largely speculative.
Closing Paragraph: The question of Daenerys Targaryen's paternity remains a central mystery in the A Song of Ice and Fire universe. The lack of definitive answers has fueled extensive speculation and debate among fans, adding depth and intrigue to the overall narrative.
While the true identity of Daenerys's father may never be fully revealed, exploring the various theories and evidence can provide valuable insights into the intricate web of relationships and power dynamics that shape the world of Westeros.
Tips
If you're intrigued by the mystery of Daenerys Targaryen's paternity and want to delve deeper into the topic, consider these practical tips:
Tip 1: Read the books and watch the TV show:
To fully grasp the intricacies of Daenerys's story and the clues surrounding her paternity, it's essential to read the A Song of Ice and Fire books by George R.R. Martin and watch the Game of Thrones TV series. Pay close attention to details, character interactions, and subtle hints that may shed light on her lineage.
Tip 2: Explore fan theories and discussions:
The internet is a treasure trove of fan theories, discussions, and debates about Daenerys's paternity. Engage with these online communities to gain insights from fellow fans and see how they interpret the available evidence and clues.
Tip 3: Analyze the characters' motives and actions:
Consider the motivations and actions of the characters involved in the story, particularly those who may have knowledge or involvement in Daenerys's lineage. Their decisions, relationships, and interactions can provide valuable clues to her true parentage.
Tip 4: Pay attention to symbolism and foreshadowing:
George R.R. Martin is known for employing symbolism and foreshadowing in his writing. Be attentive to symbolic elements, dreams, prophecies, and seemingly insignificant details that may hint at Daenerys's true father. These elements can often provide subtle clues to the overall mystery.
Closing Paragraph: Exploring the mystery of Daenerys Targaryen's paternity is a captivating journey that delves into the complex world of Westeros and its intricate web of relationships. By following these tips, you can engage more deeply with the story, uncover hidden clues, and form your own theories about Daenerys's true lineage.
As you delve into the mystery of Daenerys's paternity, remember that the true beauty lies in the journey of exploration and discovery. Embrace the ambiguity and enjoy the process of piecing together the clues and forming your own conclusions.
Conclusion
The mystery of Daenerys Targaryen's paternity remains one of the most captivating and debated aspects of the A Song of Ice and Fire universe. While the true answer may forever be shrouded in uncertainty, the journey of exploration and speculation is what truly captivates fans.
Summary of Main Points:
- The primary contenders for Daenerys's father are Aerys II Targaryen and Rhaegar Targaryen, though other theories propose different individuals.
- Evidence and clues from the books and TV show provide intriguing hints but leave room for interpretation and debate.
- Characters' motives, actions, and relationships offer potential insights into Daenerys's lineage.
- Symbolism and foreshadowing in the story may hold hidden clues to her true parentage.
Closing Message:
The beauty of this mystery lies in the journey of discovery, the piecing together of clues, and the formation of one's own theories. Embrace the ambiguity and enjoy the richness of the story, for it is in the exploration itself that the true magic lies. Whether you believe Daenerys is the daughter of Aerys II, Rhaegar, or someone else entirely, the mystery of her paternity will continue to captivate and intrigue audiences for generations to come.