The Baratheon Legacy: Unraveling the Mysteries of Orys and the Targaryen Connection

Introduction

Orys Baratheon is a character from George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series. He is known for his alliance with House Targaryen, and this article delves into the question: if Orys was a Targaryen bastard, why wasn't he called something different?

Background on Orys Baratheon and His Heritage

Unlike typical Westerosi characters, Orys was not directly of Westerosi lineage. The Baratheon name’s origins are still shrouded in mystery. Valyrian descendants like the House Bar Emmon, who are sworn to Dragonstone, suggest a more complex heritage for the Baratheon family.

The Bar- Prefix in Westeros

One theory about the Bar- prefix is that it might indicate a familial connection. This is supported by the fact that in-universe, names like Emmon (a common name for males) might point to a patronymic structure. If Orys was Aegon Targaryen's half-brother, he could have been a bastard of Lord Aerion, not Lady Valaena as initially speculated.

Possible Origins of the Name "Baratheon"

If Orys was indeed a bastard, several theories could explain the Baratheon name. First, the Bar- prefix might indicate a familial lineage, such as his mother's name being Atheon or Theon. Alternatively, Aerion could have been given the name 'Baratheon' due to a resemblance to the character Theon Stark, known as the 'Hungry Wolf.' Interestingly, the literal translation of "Baratheon" could mean "son of the godless," which adds a layer of complexity to his background.

The Role of Patronymics and Naming Conventions

Kelsey L. Hayes has explored the possibility that the Bar- prefix might be indicative of a patronymic system. However, the name "Theon" itself could suggest a connection to the Stark clan, who are known for their wild and often godless behavior. This hints at a potential personality influence on how he was named.

House Bar Emmon and Their Significance

House Bar Emmon on the Narrow Sea, mentioned in the A Song of Ice and Fire series, adds another layer of complexity. Some Andal warlords might have used similar naming conventions. These regions might have developed their own naming customs, which could have influenced the broader Westerosi naming practices.

Theoretical Naming Conventions in Westeros

Even with multiple dynastic changes and varied cultural influences, it's possible that some regions, like the Narrow Sea or Massey's Hook, retained their own naming conventions. These customs might have been absorbed by the Valyrians, who later settled the area, leading to the Baratheon name's unique heritage.

Conclusion

The question of whether Orys Baratheon was a Targaryen bastard and why he wasn't called something different remains a mystery for fans of the A Song of Ice and Fire series. While George R.R. Martin hasn't provided definitive answers, theories and speculation abound, drawing on the complex naming conventions and cultural heritage of Westeros.

Note: My knowledge of Greek roots is indeed rusty, and the translation provided here could be inaccurate, but it offers a fascinating avenue for exploration of the origins of names in the Westerosi world.