Did Jon Snow Become the Heir After Rheagar Died?

One of the most intriguing and frequently debated questions in the Game of Thrones universe concerns the legitimacy of Jon Snow as the Targaryen heir. This article delves into this question, examining the laws, political landscape, and events that complicate the implications of Jon being Rhaegar Targaryen and Lyanna Stark's son.

Legal and Political Implications

Upon Rhaegar Targaryen's death, Jon Snow stands as the sole survivor of the potential Targaryen heirs. However, the question of his rightful place on the Iron Throne raises multiple layers of legal and political questions. According to the laws and customs of Westeros, inherited from the Targaryen lineage, Jon Snow would indeed be the first in line to the throne due to the principle of primogeniture. This system prioritizes the eldest surviving descendant to inherit a title or throne, provided they are a direct descendant.

Primogeniture and Legal Claims

Upon closer examination, Jon's claim to the Iron Throne faces significant obstacles:

Infidelity and Law

The Targaryens historically employed the practice of polygamy, a right recognized by King Aegon I and King Maegor I. However, this practice had not been used for over 170 years prior to Rhaegar's reign. This change in the custom legally excludes any illegitimate children, such as Jon Snow, from the line of succession. Even if Rhaegar's marriage to Lyanna Stark were legally recognized (which it was not), Jon would still need to overcome the legal obstacle of being a bastard son.

Laws of Kingship and Justice

The laws of kingship in Westeros emphasize justice, the protection of subjects, and the maintenance of order. Prior to and during the usurpation, King Aerys II's actions forfeited the Targaryen claim to the Iron Throne. By issuing orders for the arrest and murder of several noble heirs, Aerys not only broke the law but also violated the vows of loyalty and fealty he had received from his vassals. This act of injustice irreversibly disqualified the Targaryen line from rule, a fact that reinforces why Jon Snow, being the product of a union not sanctioned by law, cannot inherit the throne.

The Immediate Political Reality

Even in the hypothetical scenario where Jon Snow were to claim the Iron Throne, his legitimacy would be fiercely contested. The political climate of the Seven Kingdoms is deeply divided, with Dany (Daenerys Targaryen) having a true claim to the throne through her claim to be the rightful heir via her uncle Viserys I. Additionally, Dany’s conquest-backed claim makes it unassailable within Legitine context. The Lords of the North, the Dornish, and the Faith Militant, among others, would likely oppose Jon’s claim due to their loyalty to Dany and their understanding of established laws.

Realism and Narrative Cues

Ultimately, the outcome of the conflict heavily depends on the narrative choices and the characters' actions. The Game of Thrones series is a world grounded in realism and the pragmatic implications of its laws and customs. In this reality, emotions and personal loyalties often trump destiny and claims to lineage.

Throughout the series, Jon Snow consistently chooses to act based on his sense of justice and what he believes is best for the people of Westeros. His journey in the series underscores the theme that regardless of one's claims to destiny, one's actions matter more. This is a stark contrast to the traditional narrative of a 'chosen one' who merely fulfills a preordained role.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while in theory Jon Snow could be the legitimate heir to the Iron Throne through his relationship with Rhaegar Targaryen, the legal, political, and narrative factors making such a claim impossible are substantial. The assertion that Jon should inherit the throne is a fantasy at odds with the laws, customs, and realities of the world of Game of Thrones.

Understanding these complexities is key to appreciating the strength and depth of the narrative in this spectacular and complex series. It invites viewers to engage with the characters and their choices, rather than simply embracing a predetermined outcome.

Key Takeaways:

The principle of primogeniture placed Jon first in line, but he faced obstacles related to his status as a bastard son. King Aerys II's actions discredited the Targaryen claim to the Iron Throne. Political realities and loyalty to other claimants like Daenerys Targaryen also complicate Jon's claim.

Further Reading:

Aleksandar Hliasov. The Law of Kingship in Westerosi Society Jonathan Woods. Noble Inheritance: An Analysis of Westerosi Succession Rights