Decoding the Aegon VI Targaryen Theory in A Song of Ice and Fire

Amid the frenzied speculation and rampant theories surrounding the upcoming A Song of Ice and Fire books, one of the most intriguing and highly debated topics is the notion that Jaqen H'ghar could be the secret identity of Aegon VI Targaryen. This article aims to dissect the origins of this theory, highlight its flaws, and argue against it from a critical perspective.

Origins of the Theory

The idea that Jaqen H'ghar is Aegon VI Targaryen has gained traction due to the elongated gap between the publication of the previous book in the series, prominently the silence (which fans commonly refer to as The Winds of Winter), and the release of the next installments. This extended period of time has left a void, leading fans to fill it with imaginative theories, many of which are as compelling as they are unsupported by concrete evidence.

Some fans have ventured into an ever-widening array of theories, including more far-fetched ideas about characters such as Robert Arryn being Aegon, son of Rhaegar Targaryen. However, such theories are often based on fragmented and cherry-picked lines from the books, which are then presented as evidence without proper context or analysis.

Critical Analysis of the Theory

The theory that Jaqen H'ghar is Aegon VI Targaryen is particularly baseless. It not only relies on snippets of text that lack substantial evidence but also posits a role for Jaqen as a central figure in the story plot—a role that is fundamentally at odds with George R.R. Martin's storytelling approach.

Consider the scope of the theory: it transforms Jaqen from a relatively minor and ambiguous character into an omnipresent force, actively shaping pivotal events such as the Purple Wedding and the fate of Balon Greyjoy. Such a grand, all-encompassing protagonist is highly unlikely in a world that, despite its complex web of characters, maintains a relatively politically decentralized and morally ambiguous structure.

The theory also ignores the fact that Aegon Targaryen, son of Rhaegar Targaryen and Elia Martell, is explicitly stated to be dead. This is a crucial detail that cannot be conveniently sidestepped or reinterpreted. George R.R. Martin has been meticulous in marking the fates of important characters, and the death of Aegon Targaryen is a well-established event in the series.

Furthermore, Martin's series is not designed around a secret protagonist with multiple perspectives. The books are known for their elaborate plot devices, diverse character arcs, and numerous points of view. The lack of a single, dominating protagonist underscores the complexity and multifaceted nature of the story. Characters like Daenerys Targaryen, Jon Snow, and Tyrion Lannister each have significant roles but no one is elevated to the level of a grand secret protagonist.

Conclusion

While speculation and fan theories are a natural part of the A Song of Ice and Fire universe, the theory that Jaqen H'ghar is Aegon VI Targaryen is more aligned with wishful thinking than solid evidence. It relies heavily on fragmented lines and cherry-picked information, and it dramatically alters the existing narrative structure without justification.

Instead of grasping at straws, it's more productive to appreciate the intricate web of characters and events Martin has crafted. The series is rich with twists, contradictions, and unexplained elements that have a clear and consistent narrative purpose, rather than serving as a jumping-off point for far-fetched theories.

Keywords

Aegon VI Targaryen Jaqen H'ghar ASOIAF Theories The Winds of Winter