The Endgame of the Targaryens in Game of Thrones: An Analysis

Many people believe that George R.R. Martin, the author of A Song of Ice and Fire, intended to restore the Targaryen dynasty. However, after Dany’s actions in the show and the controversial final season, one may question the ultimate fate of the Targaryens in the books. Let's delve into the possibilities and explore why the Targaryens may not be the only ones to inherit the Iron Throne.

Overview of the Show and Books

The core of Game of Thrones revolves around several powerful houses, with the Starks and Targaryens being central figures. Many speculate that George R.R. Martin may have already provided a definitive ending to his series, as he worked closely with the showrunners on certain aspects. However, another theory suggests that the books may have a different and perhaps unexpected ending, especially with Daenerys’s dramatic death and Jon Snow’s exile to the Night's Watch.

The Contrasting dynamics of the Targaryens and Starks

The dynamics between the Targaryens and Starks are starkly contrasting. While the Stark children, specifically Arya, Sansa, and Bran, are the heart of the story, the Targaryens are depicted as unstable and mad, with a hint of suspicion. This is exemplified by Cersei’s phrase, "Every time a Targaryen is born, the gods flip a coin." This statement underscores the unpredictable nature of the Targaryen lineage.

The Significance of House Stark

Interestingly, the Starks, particularly the Stark children, are featured prominently in both the books and the show. G.R.R. Martin himself has mentioned that the Starks—their heart and soul—are indeed the center of the narrative. This is further emphasized by his analogy comparing the Starks to his favorite NFL team, the New York Giants. The Starks represent a resilient and compassionate force, which contrasts directly with the Targaryens.

The Fate of the Targaryen Dynasty

Some argue that the Targaryen dynasty is over, but the bloodline might not end needlessly. Despite marrying outside their family, the Targaryens maintained several familial unions with other noble families. This means that the bloodline could continue through cousins and descendants who might reclaim the title. In the world of A Song of Ice and Fire, houses can always seek what was theirs, and history shows that the Starks are a prime example.

The True Endgame: The Rise of the Starks

Despite the Targaryens’ strong position in the narrative, the true endgame might not be about the restoration of the Targaryen bloodline. Instead, G.R.R. Martin may be exploring the idea of any house coming to reclaim their lost glory, with the Starks being a prime candidate. While the name of the Targaryens might die out, the bloodline could persist for at least another generation, leaving open the possibility that a new Targaryen could rise to power in the future.

Conclusion: The Duality of Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen

Ultimately, the narrative structure of Game of Thrones focuses on the duality of characters like Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen. Jon represents humility, compassion, and loyalty, while Daenerys embodies pride, ambition, and eventual madness. Their contrasting fates reflect the unpredictability of their lineage and the cyclical nature of power in Westeros.

With the final season's controversial events, many theories and speculations abound regarding the fate of the Targaryens in the books. Whether the Targaryens’ bloodline ends or a new Targaryen rises from the ashes, only time and the pages of G.R.R. Martin’s works will reveal the true endgame.