Who is Aegon Targaryen in the Books: A Character Analysis

Introduction

In the world of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, the name Aegon Targaryen is often heard in the context of various characters. However, the identity of this name is often a matter of intrigue and speculation among fans. This article aims to unravel the mystery surrounding Aegon Targaryen, delving into the character's true identity, the possible connections to the Targaryen lineage, and analyzing the theories presented throughout the series.

Aegon Targaryen: A Character Overview

The name Aegon Targaryen is mentioned multiple times in the books, with varying possibilities presented. These characters can be broadly categorized as:

Aegon the Unborn - The child who died with Elia Martell and Rhaenys Targaryen in King's Landing. Aegon the Likely - A strong possibility for a Targaryen descendant, named to keep up with a ruse or to honor the Targaryen lineage. Young Griff - The boy who believed he was Aegon Targaryen and son of Rhaegar Targaryen and Elia Martell, adopted by Illyrio Mopatis. Jaqen H’ghar - A mysterious character who revealed himself as Aegon Targaryen, possibly to deceive or as a true descendant.

Theories and Speculations

The identity of Aegon Targaryen remains a mystery, with several theories presented by fans and characters within the story. Let's explore these possibilities in detail.

1. Aegon as a Targaryen Descendant

There are indeed several Targaryen descendants and potential links to the house:

Maegor Targaryen - A historical Targaryen king known for his rule and bloodline. Saera Targaryen - A lesser-known Targaryen queen, part of the Targaryen lineage. Aerion Targaryen - Another historical figure, a scion of the Targaryen bloodline. Blackfyre line - A disputed branch of the Targaryens, often considered illegitimate but still claiming Targaryen blood.

As Ilona Beston mentions, there have been enough opportunities for Targaryen blood to flow through various lines, making a descendant of Targaryen blood very plausible.

2. Aegon as Rhaegar's Son

However, the theory that Aegon could be Rhaegar Targaryen and Elia Martell's true son, as claimed by Jaqen H'ghar, encounters several discrepancies:

Physical Appearance: Aegon's lighter eye color is one of the main points of contention. Elia and Rhaegar had distinct hair and eye colors that differ from Aegon's. Dorne's Ignorance: The people of Dorne were unaware of the existence of Aegon Targaryen, which seems unlikely if he was the rightful heir. Discrepancies in Age and Identity: If Aegon were truly Rhaegar's son, his age and identity timing would not align with the events of the series.

Given these discrepancies, the theory that Aegon is Rhaegar and Elia's true son remains highly speculative and is more likely a deception.

3. Other Possible Connections

For those who do not wish to believe that Aegon is Rhaegar's true son, there are alternative theories:

Female-line Blackfyre: The theory that Aegon could be a descendant through a female line, either Blackfyre or a descendant of Aerion Targaryen. Random Valyrian Lysene: The possibility that Aegon is a boy with Valyrian features, possibly to be manipulated into a false identity by those with political motives.

The character of Young Griff, who believed he was Aegon Targaryen and son of Rhaegar and Elia, is notable for the complexity of his story. He was adopted by Illyrio Mopatis and groomed to become a ruler, which aligns with the theory that Aegon could be a random ethnically Valyrian boy of the right age and look, cleverly manipulated into a false identity.

Conclusion

While the identity of Aegon Targaryen remains a mystery, the possibilities are vast. From being a trueborn Targaryen descendant to a false identity used for political gain, the series provides ample opportunity for intrigue and speculation. The uncertainty surrounding Aegon's identity adds depth to the narrative and keeps readers engaged in the rich tapestry of A Song of Ice and Fire.