Dragons in Westeros: The Myths, Rumors, and Reality After Daenerys Hatched

In the world of A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin, the Targaryens were known for their powerful and fearsome dragons. This begs the question, how many dragons were left alive when Daenerys Targaryen got her three? Let's delve into the history of dragons in Westeros and the myths surrounding their reappearance.

Dragon Extinction in Westeros

Dragons have a storied history in Westeros, but by the time of Daenerys Targaryen's reign, dragons were considered extinct. The last Targaryen dragons, Drogon, Rhaegal, and Viserion, hatched from incomplete eggs, leaving no other dragons known to exist. The extinction of dragons was a significant event in Westerosi history, making Daenerys' three dragons a rare and wondrous sight.

Myths and Rumors of Surviving Dragons

Despite the official extinction of dragons, there were persistent rumors and myths about the possibility of surviving dragons. Fans of the series have proposed various theories, including the existence of a Targaryen dragon known as Cannibal, who may still be alive somewhere, possibly on Skagos, an isolated island north of the Wall. These theories add an element of intrigue to the story, but as of yet, there is no concrete evidence to support them.

No Known Dragons After Daenerys Hatched Her Babies

By the time Daenerys Targaryen successfully hatched Drogon, Rhaegal, and Viserion from her eggs, all known dragons had been extinct for approximately 100 years. No one had seen a dragon in over a century, making the reappearance of Daenerys' dragons a historic event. The uniqueness of her dragons is highlighted by the fact that there was no other confirmed dragon in existence.

Dragons and Far Off Lands

There were rumors that dragons might still exist in far-off lands, but these rumors were never verified. Some suggest that dragons could have survived in unknown corners of the world, but until there is hard evidence, these remain just that—rumors. Theories about dragons in Skagos or other distant lands add to the lore but do not change the reality of the dragons' disappearance.

The Singular Significance of Daenerys' Dragons

Daenerys Targaryen's dragons are special because they are the last of their kind. The absence of any other known dragons makes their existence even more remarkable. The fact that Daenerys hatched her three dragons from incomplete eggs also underscores their uniqueness in the world. Their survival and subsequent rise to power under Daenerys have been pivotal in the narrative of the series.

Assuming Extinction

Until George R.R. Martin provides definitive information, one must assume that dragons were indeed extinct before Daenerys' three hatched. This assumption is based on the lack of concrete evidence and the consistent narrative portrayal of dragons as extinct. The extinction of dragons adds a sense of gravity and tragedy to the world of Westeros, emphasizing the rarity of Daenerys' dragons and their impact on the series.

Whether dragons are real or just a myth in the world of Westeros, the stories surrounding them continue to captivate fans and readers alike. The legacy of Daenerys Targaryen's dragons will undoubtedly be remembered for generations to come, reminding us of the power and mystery that these legendary creatures once possessed.