Daenerys Targaryen Compared to Aegon the Conqueror: A Journey of Power and Tyranny

The character arc of Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones and the A Song of Ice and Fire series has sparked numerous discussions about her parallels with Aegon the Conqueror. Both characters share a strong desire for conquest, use of dragons, and a vision of justice, yet their methods and ultimate fates differ significantly.

Desire for Conquest

Both Daenerys and Aegon are driven by a strong desire to conquer and unite the Seven Kingdoms. Aegon achieved this through military might and strategic marriages, establishing the Targaryen dynasty as (and here you can insert a quote if your site has permissions) 'the unsung masters of Westeros.' Daenerys, known as the 'Mother of Dragons,' initially relied on her dragons and armies to reclaim the Iron Throne, much like Aegon did a millennium ago.

Use of Dragons

Aegon the Conqueror famously used dragons to intimidate and defeat his enemies, and this legendary strategy became the terror of his adversaries. Similarly, Daenerys, as the last Targaryen with dragons, employs them as tools of power and fear during her campaigns in Essos and later in Westeros. The dragons' presence serves both as a symbol of power and as a means to instill fear and submission in her enemies. This shared tradition of using dragons underscores the parallel between the two characters.

Vision of a Just Rule

Both Aegon and Daenerys share a vision of a just rule. Aegon sought to bring peace and stability to Westeros after his conquest, believing in the necessity of a strong ruler. In a similar vein, Daenerys often expresses her desire to establish a governance that promotes justice and freedom, reflecting her noble origins and the weight of her heritage. This vision, however, faces numerous challenges and criticisms along the way.

Struggle with Power

Despite their noble intentions, both characters grapple with the moral implications of their conquests. Aegon faced resistance and rebellion from various factions, leading to a dramatic struggle for power. Daenerys, on the other hand, confronts the consequences of her decisions, leading to significant moral dilemmas and internal conflict. As her journey progresses, she becomes more ruthless and tyrannical, often questioning the rightness of her methods and motivations.

Differences: Methods of Rule and Character Development

While Aegon’s methods were often pragmatic and strategic, involving both force and diplomacy, Daenerys becomes increasingly ruthless and destructive in her approach, particularly in the later seasons. Her methods lead to significant loss of life and widespread destruction, reflecting a more tyrannical and less benevolent rule.

Daenerys's character development is marked by a gradual descent into a more tyrannical approach, especially as she faces betrayal and loss. This is a stark contrast to Aegon's more calculated and sometimes benevolent rule. Aegon’s reign is often depicted as one of unification and strength, leaving a lasting legacy that is both respected and feared. In contrast, Daenerys’s legacy becomes more controversial, culminating in a mixed perception of her rule and the impact of her actions on Westeros.

Legacy and Impact

While Aegon’s legacy is one of unification and strength, Daenerys's legacy is more complex and controversial. Her journey reflects the complexities of power and the fine line between a liberator and a tyrant. The Legacy of Aegon and Daenerys serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of wielding such immense power and the responsibilities that come with it.

Conclusion

While Daenerys shows traits reminiscent of Aegon the Conqueror, particularly in her ambition and use of dragons, her increasingly tyrannical methods and moral struggles ultimately set her apart. Her character arc explores the complexities of power and the difficult choices that come with it, offering a rich narrative exploration of leadership and responsibility.