Why Aemon Targaryen Was Left Out as Heir to Aerys II
Why Aemon Targaryen Was Left Out as Heir to Aerys II
One of the most intriguing yet puzzling aspects of A Song of Ice and Fire series by George R.R. Martin is the succession of King Aerys II's throne. Why was Aemon Targaryen, a member of the royal family and a renowned figure, not chosen as Aerys II's heir? The answer lies in both his age and his status as a sworn brother to the Night’s Watch, which is a significant point under Westerosi law and culture.
The Age Factor: A Mechanism of Natural Selection for Leadership
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In Westeros, succession is often influenced by factors beyond mere loyalty and capability. A key consideration is the age of the potential heir. Aemon Targaryen, while an honorable and respected noble, had reached an advanced age. The cautious and wary King Aerys II was likely influenced by the instinct of waiting for a younger generation to take the throne. An heir who was older and perceived as close to his end might offer a sense of assurance that the realm would not have to experience another sudden succession while the new ruler was still in his youth.
The Oath of a Sworn Brother: Honorable Bond, Unbreakable Limits
For King Aerys II, another critical factor was Aemon's status as a sworn brother of the Night’s Watch. This oath, central to the Night’s Watch's mission and backbone of their code, dictated that he was bound by a set of unbreakable vows.
No Exceptions: Vows of the Brotherhood
The vows of a sworn brother are as absolute as the promise of eternal winter in Westeros itself. These vows include vows of poverty, hardship, and lifelong service to the Night’s Watch. Perhaps Aerys II, and the ruling council, considered that Aemon’s vow of “no home” was incompatible with the responsibilities of being a prince and heir to the Iron Throne. Being a sworn brother meant a commitment to celibacy, a life away from the courts, and a lack of familial obligations which would be burdensome to a ruler.
The Policy of Exclusion: The Art of Strategic Omissions
During Aerys II’s reign, the choice of an heir was not just a personal decision but a strategic one influenced by political and cultural norms. Aemony being a sworn brother to the Night’s Watch excluded him from consideration, not because of any lack of standing or fidelity, but due to a deeply ingrained sense of what makes a suitable king. The idea of a king who had taken the vows of a sworn brother could be seen as a betrayal of the realm's expectations and the image of a strong, resolute, and decisive leader.
The Broader Implications: Leadership and Waste
The choice of an heir is a pivotal decision that can set the tone for a kingdom's future. Aemony, an older and sworn to a life of service to a different cause, was seen as an essential leader but not as an heir. This decision, while perhaps difficult and complex in narrative terms, aligns closely with the broader themes of the novel—human waste and the importance of making the right choices for the future, even when these choices are painful.
Ultimately, Legacy: Beyond the Throne
Aemony’s ultimate fate, as a royal heir turned to the Night’s Watch, is a powerful statement on the broader themes of the book. It touches on legacy beyond the throne, a legacy of sacrifice and honor, and a legacy that may be unparalleled in terms of personal devotion to Westeros. While Aemony was not chosen as heir because of these reasons, his character is an enduring reminder of the profound impact of choices and vows in the world of A Song of Ice and Fire.
Conclusion: The Weight of Vows and Succession
The decision not to choose Aemon Targaryen as Aerys II's heir is a rich narrative choice that reflects deep cultural, legal, and political considerations. It is a testament to the complexity and nuance of the world created by George R.R. Martin, where every decision has weight, and every oath carries consequences.