The Battle of the Trident: How Robert Baratheon Felled Rhaegar Targaryen

During the pivotal Battle of the Trident that defined the Robert Baratheon-led rebellion against the Targaryen dynasty, the dramatic confrontation between these two legendary warriors took place. This crucial encounter occurred at a crucial river crossing, where Robert Baratheon's rage and determination, fueled by his love for Lyanna Stark, overcame the skill and power of Rhaegar Targaryen.

The Confrontation and the Outcome

The clash between Robert Baratheon and Rhaegar Targaryen is often portrayed as a single combat duel. Despite Rhaegar's acknowledged prowess as a warrior, Robert emerged victorious. The key to Robert's success was his powerful blow from his massive war hammer, which crushed Rhaegar's chest. The intensity of the battle and the force behind Robert's weapon resulted in a fatal injury that killed Rhaegar instantly.

Robert's War Hammer

Legendary accounts of the battle often emphasize the sheer power and impact of Robert's war hammer. In one account, it is noted that 'Hammer don't hurt ‘em' — a phrase that Robert defiantly ignored, shouting 'Stop! Hammer time.' As he brought his hammer down, it crushed Rhaegar's breastplate, caveing in his chest and ensuring his immediate demise.

Describing the Combatants

While Rhaegar Targaryen was a skilled warrior, standing at 5'9 to 6'1 in height, neither weak nor slow, Robert Baratheon surpassed his opponent in both strength and reach. Standing at a significant 6'6 height, Robert was built like a 'maiden's fantasy' in terms of muscular and imposing stature. The disparity in physical attributes made Robert a formidable and potentially more vulnerable target, as his larger size presented a larger target for Rhaegar. However, Robert's superior strength and determination proved decisive.

Post-Battle Reactions

Some accounts suggest that Rhaegar was able to say Lyanna's name before succumbing to his injuries, adding a poignant and tragic element to the narrative. Other details emphasize the sudden and brutal nature of the end to Rhaegar's life, driven by the immense force of the hammer blow to his torso.

Implications of the Battle

The death of Rhaegar Targaryen at the Battle of the Trident was a turning point for the rebellion. It marked a significant shift in the dynamics of the conflict, affirming Robert Baratheon's position as the leading opponent to the Targaryen dynasty. The victory contributed to the eventual fall of King Aerys II Targaryen and the rise of the Baratheons and Starks as the dominant families in the Seven Kingdoms.

Conclusion

The Battle of the Trident, characterized by the ruthlessness and power of Robert Baratheon's war hammer, stands as a key moment in Westerosi history. Robert's dramatic victory over Rhaegar Targaryen not only redefined the outcome of the war but also left a lasting impact on the narrative of the monarchy and the rebellion.