Comparing Daenerys and Her Father Aerys II Targaryen: Similarities and Differences

The realms of Westeros have seen many powerful and influential figures throughout its rich history, and two of the most prominent figures to emerge from the Targaryen lineage are Daenerys Targaryen and her father, Aerys II Targaryen. This essay delves into the intriguing similarities and differences between these two pivotal characters, highlighting how their shared traits ended up having profound impacts on their legacies.

Personality Traits and Charm

Both Daenerys and Aerys II Targaryen exhibit remarkable charm and charisma, making them likable to the masses. In their youth, they were described as charming and even showed promise. Aerys II Targaryen was known for his good people skills, and so too was Daenerys, who was praised for her diplomatic skills and kindness. Their ability to connect with people and lead with charisma was undeniable. For example, Aerys II was praised for his rapport, while Daenerys won over many by her acts of kindness and promise of a better future.

Unconventional Choices of Advisors

Seeking out new and unconventional advice is another trait that both father and daughter share. Both made choices that deviated from the traditional counsel of their advisors. Aerys II, despite his initial distrust of his advisors, eventually found himself dismissing seasoned leaders for those who provided comforting and familiar guidance, such as naming Tywin Lannister as Hand. Similarly, Daenerys veered towards new counselors, like Daario Naharis. However, these choices were not always prudent. Aerys II's trust in Tywin Lannister led to a downfall, and Dany's choices, such as trusting Daario, often fell short of expectations, demonstrating a trend towards individuals who provided favorable, albeit sometimes compromised, counsel.

Ambition and Overreaching Schemes

Ambition is another quality that defines both characters. Aerys II was driven by his larger-than-life schemes, whether it was the construction of grand infrastructure projects or his military conquests that proved grandiose and ultimately failed. For Daenerys, it was her ambitious plans to transform Slaver's Bay, which, despite her good intentions, were likely to be left unfinished due to her inexperience in governance. Both characters exhibited a capricious streak, with Aerys II's schemes often spurred by his frustrations and Daenerys's driven by her sense of justice and righteousness. Both fell short of achieving their grand visions, and both were prone to discard these plans when they no longer served their immediate desires.

Leadership and Governance

Neither Aerys II nor Daenerys were particularly adept at the day-to-day tasks of governance. Aerys relied heavily on Tywin Lannister to manage state affairs, while Daenerys, although ambitious, lacked the skills and efficiency to handle the complexities of ruling. The two were ultimately ineffective as governors, despite their lofty ambitions. Their fragmented approach to leadership often led to mismanagement and a failure to achieve lasting change in their respective realms.

Militarism and Paranoia

Both Aerys II and Daenerys were deeply militaristic. Aerys was primarily concerned with military conquests and strategies, exemplified by his building of a war fleet and his pursuit of military dominance. Daenerys, on the other hand, was a master of conquest but struggled with administration. Their reliance on military might often overshadowed diplomatic efforts, making them less adept at maintaining peace and building alliances. Additionally, both characters exhibited traits of paranoia, with Aerys’s later behavior mirroring Dany’s, albeit to a lesser extent. Their paranoia led them to lash out and make rash decisions, often based on perceived threats or a need to appease their base.

Use of Fire and Self-Righteous Justice

Fire and self-righteous justice are two powerful and recurring motifs in the narrative of both Aerys II and Daenerys. Aerys II chose wildfire as a means of destruction, using it to execute those he saw as enemies. Daenerys, in turn, used fire in the form of her dragons to execute those she deemed guilty. Both used fire as a symbol of their power and a method of punishment. In the same breath, both exhibited a self-righteous sense of justice, often leading to brutal and uncompromising actions. Aerys's sadism and Daenerys's insistence on burning Dorn alive were two stark examples of this. Their actions often reflected their belief in their own righteousness, a trait that eventually led to their downfall.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the similarities between Daenerys and Aerys II Targaryen are striking, particularly when it comes to their personable and charming nature, their unconventional choices of advisors, their ambitious yet overreaching schemes, and their militaristic and paranoid tendencies. However, these shared traits ultimately led to their respective failures as effective rulers. While Daenerys may continue to evolve and learn from her father's mistakes, the path of tyranny and power is fraught with dangers and pitfalls that both characters faced. Understanding these similarities can provide valuable insights into their characters and their legacies.