Rhaenys Targaryen was subtly one of the most impactful and complex characters in HBO’s House of the Dragon, the spinoff to the popular Game of Thrones series. But what made The Queen Who Never Was so influential to the overall narrative and to the arc of characters like Rhaenyra?
One thing we come to love about the fantasy genre, and the Game of Thrones franchise in particular, is that there is no shortage of unique and wondrous characters that we are introduced to with each chapter of a book or episode on our TV screens.
The first season of George R. R. Martin’s House of the Dragon on HBO was packed full of complex characters that have twisted our emotions. From King Viserys’ struggle to become a great leader to Otto Hightower’s deviant tactics to seize more power and legacy for his bloodline, there is no shortage of obstacles that each of these personalities are faced with.
Rhaenys’ important origin story
There is one character who often flies under the radar, however, when it comes to discussing the unique figures we have come to know. One of the most underappreciated characters in the show, for her significance in the overall story and her fantastic contributions in each scene, is Rhaenys Targaryen.
We are introduced to Rhaenys in the first episode of Season 1, where it quickly becomes apparent that both she and Viserys are in line to succeed Jaeharys, their grandfather, as the Ruler of Westeros. The ultimate decision, of Viserys being crowned, and the reason behind it, gives us a clear idea of society’s perception of women during this era and why it was deemed laughable, by some, that a woman would ever rule.
Her title as The Queen Who Never Was, coupled with the opening sequences of the series, laid much of the groundwork for the tale of Rhaenyra’s claim to the Iron Throne later on. Her origin story completely sets up our understanding of culture and society in terms of the possibility of women ruling and how it is viewed by common folk and other lords.
Of course, it’s important to note that actress Eve Best’s portrayal of the Targaryen royal has greatly contributed to bringing this character to life, particularly in these shameful and disappointing moments. Her exceptional performance skillfully captures the hidden layers of emotions and sacrifices that Rhaenys experiences as the story unfolds.
The symbolism of her sacrifices
There might not be another character in the House of the Dragon series who has been faced with greater challenges than Rhaenys. Despite being the most suitable candidate, in terms of personality and strength, to lead the Seven Kingdoms, she was forced to accept the harsh reality of Viserys’ coronation and forge an alternative path to garnering legacy and respect.
One aspect of her character that is written extremely well is her grit and determination. This is highlighted by her ability to maintain relevance and inch her way towards what, she feels, was her birthright, through marrying Lord Corlys and brokering unique deals and promises to others in the realm. But these deals and tactics did not come without sacrifice.
As her journey for legacy became united with her husband’s, Corlys Velaryon, we got to see just how much they sacrificed on a regular basis. Even offering the hand of their young daughter Laena to Viserys, after the death of Aemma. All in hopes of merging their bloodlines so that one day, Laena’s children and their grandchildren, could sit upon the Iron Throne.
As the season progressed, we got to see just how much sacrifice was willing to take and the realization that their obsession with power had cost her the lives of her children, which left her devastated. Come to realize that her role as a mother also held immense value, and tried to convince Corlys of changing so that they could help to raise and protect their grandchildren moving forward.
Her impact on Rhaenyra’s reign
Along with planting the seed for a woman to rule, Rhaenys has had an extraordinary impact on Rhaenyra’s young years while she preparing to become a leader herself. Offering her advice on how to conduct herself and weave around the council and the likes of Otto Hightower’s grand designs for the kingdom.
Her support and willingness, as the Lady of Driftmark, to back the young Targaryen has also given validity to Rhaenyra’s rule, which was contested by young Aegon after Viserys’ death. The future of Rhaenys’ grandchildren is also a major factor in her support of Rhaenyra and Daemon, as Daemon is the father to Baela and Rhaena. This gives her another reason to root for the success of Rhaenyra and Daemon’s conquest.
While much is known about Rhaenys’ impact on Rhaenyra and the rest of the Targaryens in George R.R. Martin’s books, it will be interesting to see how they will expand on this influence for the upcoming second season of HBO’s hit show, House of the Dragon.