Is Viserys a True Targaryen?

In the sprawling narrative of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, many characters are questioned, challenged, and reevaluated. One such character is Viserys Targaryen. Is Viserys a true Targaryen, and does he truly deserve to be called Daenerys's true brother?

The True Targaryen

Viserys is indeed a blood Targaryen, and as such, he is a genuine member of the Targaryen lineage. He is Daenerys's true brother by blood, sharing the same royal heritage and the legacy of their family's Valyrian dragon blood. Targaryens are known for their silver hair, purple eyes, and dragon obsession, making Viserys' traits confirm his Targaryen heritage.

The Debate: Legitimacy as a Targaryen

However, some fans debate whether Viserys truly embodies the qualities of a Targaryen. Issues such as his temper, his obsession with being seen as a Valyrian 'True Dragon,' and his questionable sanity bring those doubts into question. Is Viserys just an impostor, and could the Viserys we know be a decoy, as a different Targaryen is living under a false identity?

Alternative Theories

1. **Impostor Theory**: There is a theory suggesting that Viserys might be an impostor who brainwashed his sister Daenerys into believing they were Targaryens. This theory introduces the possibility of a 'real' Viserys under the alias 'Darkstar.'

2. **Mockery and Warning**: In the series, Daenerys (also known as Daenerys Stormborn) refers to Viserys as a literal dragon rather than a metaphorical one. This could be a playful mockery of his constant boasting about his supposed royal lineage. Viserys often warns Daenerys that she should not "wake the dragon," which implies that he could become very angry and dangerous if provoked.

The Character of Viserys

Viserys' character traits are indeed deeply ingrained with typical Targaryen qualities. He has silvery hair, purple eyes, and is deeply obsessed with dragons. These traits are common among Targaryens, but his temperament and mental health are questionable. His inbred nature and inconstancy have led to his frustration and anger, making him a less desirable member of the Targaryen family.

Conclusion

While Viserys is undoubtedly a true Targaryen by blood, the question of his legitimacy as a true Targaryen remains. His actions and character often deviate from the typical traits associated with his lineage. However, the series itself does not support the theory that Viserys is an impostor; he is dead, and the 'true' Viserys, if such a figure exists, would not serve the story's current plotlines as well.