Arya’s Reaction to Jon’s Targaryen Heritage: A Character Study

The dynamic between Arya Stark and Jon Snow in the hit TV series Game of Thrones has always been a source of admiration for viewers. The relationship between the two siblings, who are also sworn guardians of each other, is one of love, trust, and unwavering loyalty. Despite the numerous twists in the series, their bond remains steadfast, making any significant change in their relationship a significant event worthy of exploration.

The revelation that Jon Snow is the son of Prince Rhaegar Targaryen and Arya’s deceased aunt, Lyanna Stark, adds yet another layer to their already complex relationship. This article delves into how Arya might react to this revelation and explores their subsequent conversation in detail.

Politics vs. Emotion

The announcement that Jon Snow is the true heir to the Iron Throne shakes the very foundation of the world as Arya and Jon know it. To Arya, Jon remains her brother and nothing else matters, but she is acutely aware of the political implications of his Targaryen heritage.

Arya’s reaction initially stems from a place of indifference, but the political implications quickly bring her back to focus. While she remains his loyal sister, Arya understands that her brother's Targaryen heritage gives him a stronger claim to the throne than Daenerys Targaryen. This revelation could change the political landscape dramatically and may even threaten Arya’s safety, should Dany see Jon as a threat to her ambitions.

Dialogue Exchange: A Closer Look

The following dialogue illustrates Arya and Jon’s conversation after the revelation:

Jon: So you kept the “Needle”, huh? I think you found it useful.

Arya: Yeah, it saved my life countless times.

Jon: That's why I gave it to you.

Arya: You can't imagine how much I'm happy to see you.

Jon: I know. Listen, I need to talk to you about something, but Sansa and Daenerys can't know about this.

Arya: You can tell me anything.

Jon: Alright, but first, I need to know if Bran is...

Arya: What? No. Of course not. He is perfectly sane.

Jon: He keeps saying that he is the Three Eyed Raven.

Arya: Yeah, I can't believe that either. But I guess he has some kind of power to see things. What did he tell you?

Jon: Yeah, he told me that the Stark isn't really your father, and my real parents are Prince Rhaegar Targaryen of House Targaryen and your aunt Lyanna.

Arya: What? This is a joke, right? You're making this up so you can marry Daenerys, aren't you? Now you can hand over Winterfell to Sansa without facing the wrath of the Northern lords.

Jon: No, why would I do such a thing, and why would I lie to you?

Arya: So, you're serious?

Jon: Yes, you can ask Bran if you want. Sam confirmed this too. He found evidence in a book he found at the Citadel. And my name isn't Jon Snow. It's Aegon Targaryen.

Arya: Aegon Targaryen... I like it. Now I can say 'sup, cousin Aegon.'

Jon: Not so loud. Aw, don't hit me.

Arya: So, Daenerys is your aunt, right?

Jon: Why are you laughing? Well... I didn't know.

Arya: Alright, anyways, I'm glad your real father is aunt Lyanna. It's better.

Jon: I have something else to tell you as well. Bran said something else. He told me that I’m the true heir to the Iron Throne, not Daenerys.

Arya: No way. I can't believe I'm hearing this. Too many surprises in a single day.

Jon: Yeah, it took me a while to digest the whole idea.

Arya: Jon, you're the best cousin ever. Can you take me with you to King's Landing? I want to see you kick that bitch, Cersei, out of the throne. Or I can do it for you if you want. I can even... Why waste a dungeon?

Jon: No, you know I'm not that kind of a person. I have already pledged myself to Daenerys.

Arya: You pledged yourself to your aunt?

Jon: I know this is insane, but please, don't tell Sansa, especially not Daenerys.

Arya: Don't worry, nothing leaves here.

Jon: Thank you for understanding.

Arya: I know. But it's great to have a Targaryen as a cousin. So, how about this—'All hail His Grace, Aegon of Houses Targaryen and Stark, First of His Name, King of the Andals and the First Men, Lord of the Seven Kingdoms, and Protector of the Realm, and aunt...'

Jon: Arya! You'll regret if I catch you.

These conversations showcase the complexity of their relationship, the trust they have in each other, and the unwavering loyalty they share despite the changing landscape around them.

Analysis

Arya’s initial reaction to Jon’s Targaryen heritage is marked by a mixture of confusion, amusement, and concern. She focuses on the political implications rather than the familial aspect, indicating her pragmatic nature. However, her eventual acceptance and support for him, even proposing to help him claim the throne, reflect the deep and unbreakable bond they share.

Jon’s revelation showcases his honesty and loyalty, even when it puts him at odds with his aunt. His pledge to Daenerys highlights the moral and ethical dilemmas he faces in a world where loyalty and duty often clash with personal desires and family ties.

Conclusion

The revelation that Jon Snow is Aegon Targaryen deeply impacts the Starks and their relationships within the Seven Kingdoms. Arya’s reaction highlights her commitment to both her emotional and political worlds, and Jon’s response underscores the complex nature of his identity and his choices. Their conversation further enriches the narrative, reinforcing the themes of trust, loyalty, and the changing dynamics in a world ruled by power and destiny.