The Complexity of Rhaegar Targaryen's Naming Decision in Game of Thrones

The naming of Jon Snow as Aegon Targaryen in Game of Thrones is a complex narrative choice rooted in Targaryen tradition, Rhaegar's personal beliefs, and strategic political maneuvering.

Table of Contents

Dynastic Importance: Names in Targaryen Culture Desire for a New Era: Rhaegar's Vision and Emotional Connection Political Strategy: Leveraging Familial Claims Controversies and Missing Plot Points: Jon’s Real Identity

Dynastic Importance: Names in Targaryen Culture

In Targaryen culture, names carry immense weight and often reflect lineage and legacy. Rhaegar believed that the name Aegon held a strong claim to the Iron Throne as it was associated with several past Targaryen kings. By naming Jon as Aegon, Rhaegar was likely emphasizing the importance of his lineage and the legitimacy of Jon's claim to the throne.

Desire for a New Era: Rhaegar's Vision and Emotional Connection

Rhaegar was deeply influenced by a prophetic dream, which he believed heralded a new era for Westeros. This vision and the emotional connection he had with Lyanna Stark were profound and significant. He may have wanted to honor this bond through the name Aegon, even if it meant reusing a name associated with his firstborn son, Aegon, who was the result of his marriage to Elia Martell.

Political Strategy: Leveraging Familial Claims

By naming Jon as Aegon, Rhaegar was also creating a powerful political tool. If a challenge to the throne ever arose, Aegon Targaryen Jon would have a stronger claim to the Iron Throne due to his parentage - being the son of Rhaegar and Lyanna, both of noble blood.

Controversies and Missing Plot Points: Jon’s Real Identity

It is important to note that in the books, Jon Snow's real name and identity are still unknown. The show omitted several plot points, such as Rhaegar having a son named Aegon, who appears in the books as the Young Griff. This son is part of the Blackfyre Pretenders and is making his move with the Golden Company and Jon Connington. It could be that Jon's real name is not Aegon at all. Alternatively, it is possible that Lyanna named Jon as Aegon after learning of Rhaegar and her other children's deaths. This naming choice in the books may play out differently.

The decision to name Jon as Aegon highlights the intricate web of lineage, tradition, and strategy woven into the Targaryen saga in both the books and the show. This complexity adds depth to the narrative and raises interesting questions about the true identity and destiny of Jon Snow.