The Iron Throne: Legend and Reality Behind Its Creation
The Iron Throne: Legend and Reality Behind Its Creation
The Iron Throne, one of the most iconic symbols in the world of Westeros, holds a special place in the minds of fans of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series. But few know the story behind its creation. Let's delve into the legend and the truth about the birth of this legendary seat of power.
From Myth to Reality
Legend has it that the Iron Throne was forged by Balerion, the legendary dragon of House Targaryen. Yet, historical accounts suggest a more grounded explanation. According to the Annals of the Dance, the Iron Throne is the product of Aegon I Targaryen's conquest and the swords taken from his defeated enemies.
Aegon the Conqueror: The Uniter of Westeros
King Aegon I Targaryen, also known as Aegon the Conqueror and Aegon the Dragon, was the first and perhaps the most formidable of the Targaryen rulers. He lived from approximately -1 AC to 37 AC, and his reign lasted from 1 AC to 48 AC.
Aegon's rise to power began with the brutal and decisive War of Conquest, in which he and his brothers conquered the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros. This feat was made possible by the use of dragons, and Balerion, in particular, played a crucial role in the Targaryens' victory.
The Legend of Balerion's Breath
According to the legend, Balerion, the dragon whose maw was wide and whose breath melted stone, engaged in the creation of the Iron Throne. It is said that the majestic dragon used his flames to melt down countless swords, forging the iconic seat from these hardened steel blades.
Historical Accounts and Reality
Historical records tell a different story. After the War of Conquest, Aegon I had gathered the weapons of his vanquished enemies. These weapons, numbering in the thousands, symbolized the defeat of the ancient lords and the rise of the Targaryen dynasty. Aegon's iron throne was indeed created from these swords, symbolizing the unity of the Seven Kingdoms under his rule.
How many swords were used in the creation of the Iron Throne? The Tales from the Yesterdays state that it was 1,000 swords. This figure may vary depending on the account, but it serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the War of Conquest.
The Coronation of Aegon I
When Aegon I crowned himself King of the Seven Kingdoms in Oldtown, the swords used to create the Iron Throne were presented as a testament to his victory. The new king's coronation marked the end of the War of Conquest and the beginning of a new era in Westeros. Torrhen Stark, the Lord of Winterfell, was compelled to bend the knee to the Dragonlord, marking the end of the old order.
Conclusion
The Iron Throne, a symbol of power and authority, has a rich and complex history. Whether it was forged by Balerion's breath or created from the swords of defeated enemies, its creation is shrouded in legend and truth. The story of the Targaryen conquest and the forging of the Iron Throne stands as a testament to the power and ingenuity of Aegon the Conqueror and his dynasty.
Keywords: Iron Throne, Aegon the Conqueror, Westeros, Targaryen Dynasty