The Impact of Jon Snow’s Targaryen Lineage in Game of Thrones

Introduction

In the seventh season of Game of Thrones, Jon Snow’s actions, particularly his decision to bend the knee to Daenerys Targaryen, have raised significant questions about the relevance of his Targaryen bloodlines in the larger narrative. This discussion delves into the impact of Jon’s Targaryen lineage in the context of the TV series and anticipates its future significance in potential spin-offs or books.

Initial Decision and Morality

With the decisive actions of Jon Snow in episode 6 of season 7, he has officially aligned himself with Daenerys Targaryen, leaving behind any pretense of his own claims to the throne. This decision, marked by his dedication to moral values and the well-being of the common people, has shifted the focus from his Targaryen lineage to his Stark-like virtues. Despite the potential for a richer storyline based on his connection to the Targaryens, Jon’s ethos of justice and mercy has made him a more relatable and commendable character for many viewers.

TV vs. Book Narrative

The TV series of Game of Thrones often diverges from the literary works of George R.R. Martin, leading to a different interpretation of characters’ journeys and motivations. In the books, Jon Snow’s Targaryen ancestry is a central theme, often woven into the broader narrative about prophecy and destiny.

For instance, in the books, Jon’s lineage is as much a part of who he is as his Stark heritage. This is evident from the very beginning when the First Chapter of A Game of Thrones introduces Jon’s mysterious parentage. The narrative builds on this mystery, with numerous twists and turns revealing the depth of Jon’s Targaryen ties. In contrast, the TV show opted to emphasize Jon’s Stark identity, leading to a different character arc where his moral compass takes center stage.

Critique of Weiss and Benioff

Some critics argue that the choices made by David Benioff and D. B. Weiss, the showrunners, have not always aligned with George R.R. Martin’s original vision. Their approach to the goings-on in Westeros often resulted in a departure from the intricate and layered storytelling found in the novels, leading to a more linear and sometimes less satisfying narrative for fans of the books.

Notably, the eighth season of Game of Thrones is often seen as a culmination of these creative differences, where significant plot elements were altered or even omitted to fit the narrative requirements of the TV series. This shift had a profound impact on the portrayal of Jon Snow and his lineage.

Future of the Storyline

The announcement of a new TV show focusing exclusively on Jon Snow is an intriguing prospect for fans. This spin-off could potentially provide more depth to the weaving of his Targaryen and Stark bloodlines, exploring the full implications of his ancestry in ways the original series did not.

It is worth noting that even in the books, Jon’s Targaryen heritage is significant. When read through different lenses, it intertwines with the prophecy of Azor Ahai, making Jon’s death a crucial part of the larger story. The imagery surrounding Jon’s death aligns with the signs of the rebirth of Azor Ahai, suggesting a deeper, more symbolic significance to his lineage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Jon Snow’s Targaryen background remains a significant aspect of his character in the books, the TV series has chosen to highlight his moral values instead. This decision, while popular with many viewers, has led to different narrative choices that may not fully align with the original author’s intent. A future spin-off could provide the detailed exploration of Jon’s lineage that some fans have been eager to see.