Why Did Daenerys Targaryen Not Marry Jon Snow? Examining the Possibilities and Politics

Introduction

The strategic and political marriages in A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin are immensely complex. Among the many characters are Daenerys Targaryen and Jon Snow, who share a unique bond but never entered into a marriage. This article explores the reasons behind this union, examining the social, cultural, and personal dynamics at play.

The Cultural and Personal Barriers of Incest

Jon Snow’s Stark Heritage: Raised in the House of Stark, Jon was brought up with clear prohibitions against incest. The Starks were known for their strong distaste for relationships within their family, as evidenced by their dedication to the Night's Watch and their Code of Honor (also known as the Night's Watch motto: "Not father, not son, not brother"). This cultural backdrop made Jon uncomfortable about any possibility of a relationship with his distant cousin, Daenerys Targaryen.

During their interactions, Jon’s discomfort with incest is repeatedly highlighted. This stress and complexity in their relationship can be seen in moments where Jon struggles with this particular dynamic. For instance, his unease is evident when learning about Daenerys’ parentage and the potential incestuous undertones of any relationship they might have had.

The Impact of Political Influence

The Targaryen Influence: As he learns more about his familiar ties to the Targaryen line, Jon's eventual rejection of Daenerys is not just personal but also political. Jon's role as a member of the Night’s Watch (formerly, before becoming King in the North) aligns him with a certain set of values and beliefs that are fundamentally different from those of the Targaryen family. Their governance style is far from democratic; Daenerys, while a powerful figure, is also perceived as a vindictive and horrible leader, a perception Jon likely shares.

Once the truth about Daenerys and Jon’s family connection is revealed, it becomes clear why Jon might have been hesitant. While Daenerys herself might be interested in him, she is also a Targaryen. The idea of teaming up with the Targaryen house could inevitably lead to negative consequences, such as the Night’s Watch being disbanded or his position within it being threatened. This political reality swayed Jon's decision away from any physical relationship with Daenerys.

The End of the Night's Watch

Political Instability: The disbanding of the Night's Watch is a direct consequence of Daenerys’ actions, including her conquest of King’s Landing and the subsequent political upheaval. Jon’s crucial role in the defense of the realm and his ultimate betrayal of Daenerys by stabbing her to death highlights the harsh reality of their political differences. Jon’s decision to end Daenerys’ life is both a climax and a resolution to the political tensions between them, making the possibility of a marriage between them an impossibility from that point onward.

Jon Snow’s actions solidify his alignment with the North and the democratic nature of his rule as King in the North. His decision to kill Daenerys underscores his concern for the well-being of the Seven Kingdoms over his personal desires, exemplifying the values he was raised with in the Stark house.

Conclusion

Daenerys Targaryen and Jon Snow’s relationship is a complex web of social, cultural, and political factors. While Jon Snow might have been open to a relationship under different circumstances, the cultural stigma against incest, political instability, and Daenerys’ leadership style played significant roles in preventing a possible union. Ultimately, the relationships between these characters are not just personal but also deeply intertwined with the broader fabric of their world.

For fans of A Song of Ice and Fire, this further deepens the understanding of the intricate relationships and political landscapes of the Seven Kingdoms. It showcases the multifaceted nature of the series and the various forces at play that shape the destinies of its characters.