Why Did Aegon Targaryen Choose Westeros Over Returning to Valyria?

Throughout the narrative of Game of Thrones, Aegon Targaryen, also known as Daenerys Targaryen, and her predecessors have faced a pivotal decision: whether to return to Valyria to reclaim their ancestral homeland or to embark on the perilous journey to conquer Westeros.

The Influence of Viserys Targaryen

One significant factor that drove Aegon's decision is her brother, Viserys Targaryen, who constantly harped about his right to the Iron Throne. This unwavering belief, instilled in Aegon from a young age, may have blurred her perspective. When Viserys died, Aegon inherited his unfulfilled ambition, thus embarking on the quest to reclaim Westeros. As a result, the infamous and tragic narrative arc of the show developed, culminating in the series finale.

The Ruins of Valyria

Valyria, the ancient homeland of the Targaryens, was in ruins when Aegon's ancestor, Jaehaerys Targaryen, fled there with one of his daughters who died a slow and painful death. Various myths and folklore attribute this to the fxir worms and the idea of half-human, half-Dragon hybrids. While there is no definitive source in the book, these tales cast a shadow of doubt over the concept of a return to Valyria. Furthermore, Essos, the setting of the show, has experienced dragon invasions before, making the idea of a successful conquest uncertain.

The Doom of Valyria and Aegon's Rationale

The Doom of Valyria, a catastrophic event that devastated the land, occurred long before Aegon's birth. By the time Aegon was ready to pursue his ambitions, the Valyrian civilization had faced a century of decline and was no longer a viable base of operations. Aegon and the Targaryen dragon fleet journeyed across the sea to Westeros, a region less ravaged by upheaval and strife.

Aegon's Vision and Long-term Strategy

As Aegon Targaryen grew more powerful, she had a vision that the world needed to be unified under a Targaryen king to survive the next Long Night. This catastrophic event has not only influenced her actions but also underscores her belief in the enduring importance of the Targaryens in maintaining order and peace.

Conclusion

The decision to conquer Westeros rather than return to the ruins of Valyria was a complex one, influenced by personal ambition, historical context, and a perceived need to safeguard the world. Aegon Targaryen's journey to Westeros not only shaped the narrative of the show but also secured her place as one of the most memorable leaders in the A Song of Ice and Fire universe.