The Story So Far: Aegon’s Apparent Death and Reappearance
The Iron Throne sits empty, a symbol of contested power and a bloody legacy. Westeros, weary from war and political intrigue, faces yet another succession crisis. But this time, a ghost from the past has seemingly returned to claim his birthright. Aegon Velaryon, supposedly the son of Rhaegar Targaryen and Elia Martell, emerges from the shadows, challenging the claims of other potential rulers and reigniting the flames of conflict. This article delves into the complex character of Aegon Velaryon, exploring his background, motivations, potential impact on the narrative, and the lingering questions surrounding his true identity. Is he the rightful heir, a Blackfyre pretender, or something else entirely? The answer could very well determine the fate of Westeros.
The Sack of King’s Landing
The Sack of King’s Landing remains one of the most horrific events in Westeros history. The brutal assault by the Lannister army led to the gruesome deaths of Rhaegar Targaryen’s children, Aegon and Rhaenys. Queen Cersei Lannister, in her recollections, paints a picture of the infant Aegon being smashed against a wall by Gregor Clegane, the Mountain That Rides. This horrific image has become deeply ingrained in the common understanding of the event, solidifying the Targaryen defeat and the Lannister ascent to power. However, other versions of events and whispers of secret plots suggest a very different outcome.
The Revelation in A Dance with Dragons
Years later, in *A Dance with Dragons*, the illusion of finality is shattered. Varys, the enigmatic Master of Whisperers, reveals a long-laid plan involving Illyrio Mopatis, a wealthy merchant from Pentos. This conspiracy claims that Aegon Targaryen was smuggled out of King’s Landing before the Sack, replaced with a common child for the Mountain to murder. Under the care of Jon Connington, Rhaegar’s close friend and former Hand of the King, Aegon, now known as Young Griff, has been secretly raised and trained across the Narrow Sea.
Young Griff’s Training and Education
Young Griff receives an education fit for a king, focusing on history, warfare, governance, and the intricacies of courtly life. Jon Connington, driven by loyalty and perhaps even unrequited love for Rhaegar, instills in him a strong sense of duty and justice. He is presented as a skilled warrior, a natural leader, and a potential savior for Westeros. The strategic planning and resources dedicated to Aegon’s survival indicate a meticulous and long-term ambition, hinting at a much larger game at play within the tangled webs of ASOIAF.
Landing in Westeros
With the backing of the Golden Company, a renowned mercenary army, Aegon lands in Westeros and begins a campaign to reclaim his supposed birthright. His initial successes, particularly the capture of Storm’s End, a historically significant Targaryen stronghold, are swift and decisive. He quickly gains support from those disillusioned with the current rulers and eager for a return to stability. Aegon’s sudden emergence throws the existing power dynamics into chaos, presenting a formidable challenge to Daenerys Targaryen, the Mother of Dragons, and her own claim to the Iron Throne. He rises as a immediate threat to her ambitions and her allies.
Aegon’s Character: Heir or Pretender?
Jon Connington’s Perspective
Understanding Aegon’s true nature requires examining the perspectives of those closest to him. Jon Connington’s devotion is undeniable. He sees in Aegon a reflection of Rhaegar, the idealized prince he revered. But can Jon’s perspective be trusted? His affection and admiration for Rhaegar might blind him to Aegon’s flaws, shaping his judgment and leading him to see what he *wants* to see rather than what *is*. Connington is a reliable narrator to a degree, but the reader must question whether his emotional connection warps his view.
Aegon’s Own Actions and Motivations
Aegon himself presents a confident and charismatic image. He appears determined to be a just and benevolent ruler, listening to the concerns of his people and striving to make wise decisions. We see his strategic mind at work and his ability to inspire loyalty. However, his upbringing has been carefully curated, shielding him from the harsh realities of the world. This sheltered existence could lead to naiveté or a certain arrogance, a belief in his own inherent right to rule without truly understanding the burdens of leadership. He also appears reliant on the guidance of Jon Connington and the Golden Company, raising questions about his ability to act independently and make his own hard choices.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Aegon exhibits the expected strength and tactical skill. However, questions remain about his character and ability to weather the coming storm. Is he a capable leader? Does he have the right temperament? His reliance on Jon and the Golden Company, while understandable, presents a possible vulnerability if those alliances were to crumble.
The Question of Legitimacy: Is He Really Aegon Targaryen?
Evidence Supporting His Claim
The most pressing question surrounding Aegon Velaryon ASOIAF is his true identity. Varys’s claim and Illyrio’s support provide compelling evidence in favor of his legitimacy. These figures have demonstrated a long-term commitment to restoring the Targaryen dynasty, and their intricate planning suggests a genuine belief in Aegon’s claim. The Golden Company’s decision to break their contract and support him further lends credibility, as they have historically been loyal to the Targaryens.
The Mummer’s Dragon Theory
However, the “mummer’s dragon” theory casts a long shadow of doubt. This theory suggests that Aegon is not a Targaryen at all, but a Blackfyre pretender, a descendant of Daemon Blackfyre, the bastard son of Aegon IV Targaryen, whose rebellion plunged Westeros into chaos generations ago. Varys and Illyrio could be motivated by a desire to place *any* Targaryen-adjacent figure on the throne, someone they can easily control and manipulate to achieve their own ends. Perhaps they are simply using Aegon as a pawn in a larger game. The possibility of a “baby swap” during the Sack of King’s Landing cannot be dismissed, adding another layer of uncertainty to his origins. The only ‘proof’ of his identity comes from those who stand to gain from his ascendance.
Other Possibilities
Perhaps he is a distant Targaryen relative, a descendant of Egg (Aegon V) through an unknown lineage, making him a valid, but ultimately distant heir to the Iron Throne. Or perhaps he’s just some random kid they pulled off the streets, a face to rally troops and take power.
Aegon’s Role in the Endgame
Conflict with Daenerys
Aegon’s presence significantly complicates the political landscape of Westeros and sets the stage for potential conflicts with other claimants. The most immediate and significant of these is his looming showdown with Daenerys.
The War Against the White Walkers
The clash between Aegon and Daenerys, both Targaryen claimants with dragons and armies, is inevitable. Their meeting could result in a bloody conflict, a strategic alliance, or even a marriage to unite their claims. However, the path to either outcome is fraught with peril. The Targaryen dynasty has been known for its infighting, and the potential for betrayal is ever-present. The allegiances of key figures, such as Tyrion Lannister, who currently advises Daenerys, could be pivotal in determining the outcome.
Possible Outcomes
Beyond the political machinations, the looming threat of the White Walkers cannot be ignored. The war against the supernatural darkness will likely require the combined forces of Westeros, and Aegon’s role in this conflict is uncertain. If he is truly a Targaryen, he may possess the ability to ride a dragon, becoming a crucial asset in the fight against the undead. The historical significance of his name, “Aegon,” and its association with conquest and strength, suggests that he may be destined for a greater purpose. But to serve that purpose, he’ll need to survive.
Several outcomes are possible for Aegon. He could ultimately triumph and become the King of Westeros, ushering in a new era of Targaryen rule. Alternatively, he could meet a tragic end, becoming another victim of the Game of Thrones, leaving the succession crisis unresolved. Or he could find redemption in the fight against the White Walkers, sacrificing himself for the greater good. His fate remains one of the greatest mysteries in ASOIAF.
Conclusion
Aegon Velaryon ASOIAF is a pivotal character in the ongoing narrative, a figure shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Whether he is the true heir to the Iron Throne or a cleverly crafted pretender, his presence has profound implications for the future of Westeros. His emergence challenges Daenerys’s claim, complicates the political landscape, and raises fundamental questions about identity, legitimacy, and the nature of power. As the story progresses, the truth about Aegon’s origins will undoubtedly be revealed, shaping the destiny of Westeros and determining whether he will be remembered as a savior or a usurper. Will he sit on the Iron Throne, or will he fall like so many others who sought to claim it? The answer awaits in the winds of winter.
