Jon Snow's Children: Naming Conventions in 'Game of Thrones'

In the world of Game of Thrones and A Song of Ice and Fire, many fans have speculated about the fate and naming of Jon Snow's potential children. This article aims to explore this topic in detail, drawing from the established lore and naming conventions of Westeros.

The Targaryen Legacy

Jon Snow is revealed to be Aegon Targaryen, the legitimate son of Rhaegar Targaryen and Lyanna Stark. If he were to have children, their lineage would undoubtedly play a significant role in their name.

While the series does not definitively answer Jon's future, the Targaryen name would assert itself. As one fan points out, 'He'll always be blood Targaryen and Stark, but probably won't seize those titles by choice.' This highlights the complex political and social dynamics that may shape the children's identity and inheritance.

Another theory suggests that if Jon’s children were to exist, House Targaryen may not die in memory, especially if a child were to rediscover and tame Drogon. Although unlikely, the possibility of a Targaryen revival provides a thrilling prospect for potential storylines.

Illegitimate Children in Westeros

However, if Jon were to remain a bastard, the naming conventions for illegitimate children in the North would apply. As mentioned, 'neither' is the applicable term in this context. Even if Jon's true parentage were confirmed, his children would likely carry the surname 'Snow,' unless he were to marry into a noble house.

One fan notes that 'Jon Snow' carries a unique cultural context within Westeros. Ygritte’s disdain for the name 'Jon Snow' reveals a deep-seated disapproval of bastardy, where 'silly extra names' are mocked. This nickname has a lasting impact not only on Jon himself but potentially on his children's names and identities.

Life Beyond the Wall

Where Jon's children are raised significantly impacts their naming. If Jon remains in the Night’s Watch, he would likely not have children there as the brothers take vows of chastity. If and when Jon introduces himself and this potential future to past Night’s Watch members, it’s possible that some may be surprised by the naming convention.

When Jon rides North, he leaves behind a world where surnames and the concept of bastardy do not exist. The free folk, who inhabit the land north of the Wall, do not use surnames. This absence of a traditional naming system allows for the characters to earn their own nicknames and earn their reputation through deeds rather than titles.

As one fan points out, the concept of earning one's own nickname reflects the culture of the free folk and aligns with Jon's journey to self-discovery and acceptance of his true identity. This narrative element emphasizes the importance of characters forging their identities through their actions, rather than their birth names or titles.

In conclusion, the naming of Jon Snow's children is deeply intertwined with the complex political, social, and cultural tapestry of Westeros. Whether they carry the Targaryen name or the Snow name, their identity depends on where they are raised and the conventions of their world.