The Most Divided House of Game of Thrones: A Study in Dysfunction

Since the inception of the Game of Thrones universe, the Targaryen family has consistently demonstrated a pattern of internal division and strife that surpasses any other House in the story. This article will delve into the numerous instances of family conflict, civil wars, and personal turmoil that have plagued the Targaryen lineage, spanning a 300-year period. From poisoning and forced marriages to political upheavals and disharmony among siblings, the Targaryens have shown no signs of familial unity.

Internal Strife Within the Targaryen Family

The Targaryen family has long been marked by personal vendettas and bitter feuds. Aegon I, the founder of the Targaryen dynasty, ruled with both of his sisters—Visenya and Rhaenys—but as his life progressed, his relationships with them deteriorated. By the end of his reign, Aegon couldn't stand his sister Visenya, hinting at a deep personal conflict.

Visenya, on the other hand, was no stranger to controversy. While Aenys I, her nephew, experienced a mental breakdown, she is believed by some to have poisoned him. Similarly, Maegor I, another Targaryen ruler, murdered two of his nephews and forcibly married his niece, demonstrating an appalling disregard for familial bonds.

Jaehaerys I and His Struggles

Jaehaerys I, known for his peaceful reign, faced numerous familial issues. He often clashed with his sister Rhaena and his stepdaughter Aerea. Moreover, he experienced friction with his niece, who also had disagreements with her stepfather, Rogar Baratheon. His wife's advocacy for a more gender-equal succession led to a rift between the two, further highlighting the family's internal struggles.

Daemon Targaryen added to the chaos by causing trouble for his brother, Viserys I. The bloodline's dysfunction was further evident during the reign of Rhaenyra and Aegon II, where aunts, uncles, nephews, and nieces all fought against each other, leading to the devastation of much of the family and their dragons.

Rebellions and Family Disputes

The Targaryen family's history is rife with rebellions and civil wars, often pitting family members against each other. The conflicts were not limited to the mainline Targaryens but extended to the Blackfyre Rebellions, which involved multiple Targaryen cousins. For instance, Rhaenyra and Aegon II's civil war not only pitted aunts, uncles, and nephews against each other but also led to the Breach of King's Landing and massive casualties.

Viserys II, much like his predecessors, faced a range of issues within his household. He was rumored to have poisoned Baelor I, and Baelor's excessive restriction of his sisters in the Maidenvault only added to the family's woes. Aegon IV's behavior towards his children and wife also contributed to the Targaryen dysfunction.

Summerhall Tragedy and Aerys II

The Summerhall incident, though less confirmed, is often speculated to have involved familial shenanigans. Aerys II's relationship with his wife, Rhaella, was notably tumultuous, with the couple experiencing a miserable marriage. Aerys II's accusations that his wife and son were conspiring against him further shattered any semblance of harmony within the family.

The Baratheons as Cousins and Further Strife

The Baratheons, as cousins to the Targaryens, also contributed to the internal division. When Viserys I sold his sister to Drogo to secure an army, the consequences were dire, leading to Viserys's death at the hands of the Dothraki.

On the show, Daenerys Targaryen (Dany) further complicated her relationship with Jon Snow by putting his parentage in the context of the disputed succession, which only served to worsen the rift between them.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Targaryen family's history of self-owning misery, paranoia, and greed is unparalleled. From poisoning and forced marriages to political maneuvering and the Blackfyre Rebellions, the Targaryen lineage has vividly portrayed the darkest facets of family dysfunction within the vast world of Game of Thrones.