Why Lady Stoneheart and Aegon Targaryen Deserve a Spot in Game of Thrones

With the rich tapestry of characters and intricate plots in Game of Thrones, many fans long for the addition of a character who captivates with their depth and complexity. In this discussion, we explore two such characters: Lady Stoneheart and Aegon Targaryen. Each brings unique themes and emotional depth to the narrative, enriching the overall storyline and adding layers of complexity that fans love.

Lady Stoneheart

Complexity of Revenge: Lady Stoneheart, or Catelyn Stark's resurrected form, introduces a haunting dimension to the theme of revenge. Driven by a singular mission, her actions highlight the moral ambiguity inherent in the pursuit of retribution. By embodying this theme, she offers a stark contrast to the more straightforward moral landscapes presented by other characters. Her ruthless approach to leadership would have significantly impacted the Brotherhood Without Banners, adding new layers of conflict and tension within this group.

Impact on the Brotherhood Without Banners: As a leader, Lady Stoneheart would have shifted the Brotherhood's dynamic, pushing them towards a more ruthless edge. This change would have introduced several new storylines and conflicts, enriching the larger narrative and deepening the viewer's understanding of this influential group's role in the ongoing conflict. Her leadership would also have underscored the stark differences between virtue and vengeance, showcasing the consequences of their actions.

Connection to the Stark Family: Her presence would have added a profound emotional layer for the Starks, especially characters like Arya and Sansa. The juxtaposition between the living and the dead would have highlighted the tragedy of loss and the lengths one might go for family. Through Arya's missions for vengeance, Lady Stoneheart's impact would have been deeply felt, making her a poignant and compelling character.

Thematic Depth: Lady Stoneheart embodies several themes central to the series, including death, resurrection, and the power of vengeance. Including her would have provided a more nuanced exploration of these themes, adding a richer tapestry to the narrative. Her story would have resonated with fans, offering a psychological and emotional journey that would have spanned the entirety of the series.

Aegon Targaryen

Prominent Plots in the Books: Aegon Targaryen, the trueborn son of Rhaegar Targaryen and Elia Martell, played a crucial role in several major plots in the books. His involvement in the mysterious murders in King's Landing, the political intrigue surrounding Ned Stark, and his connection to the prophecies about the "Valonqar," the "Prince That Was Promised," would have added a layer of complexity and depth to the narrative. Aegon's story would have been intertwined with key events and characters, from Jon Arryn and Robert Baratheon to Tywin Lannister, and his eventual fate would have had significant consequences for the series.

Holograms and Prophecies: Aegon's story is also tied to the prophecies, particularly the Valonqar and the "Prince That Was Promised," making him a pivotal element in the larger saga. His role in these prophecies would have foreshadowed the events to come, adding an additional layer of intrigue and mystery to the series. Additionally, the show's makers' attempted homage to Aragorn from The Lord of the Rings by referencing Aegon's name would have been a fascinating thematic connection.

Postponed Inclusion: Sadly, Aegon Targaryen's inclusion may have been on the table if the showrunners had received the outline of the books earlier. His story would have been too vast and complex to fit into the initial seven-season plan, leading to his eventual omission. George R.R. Martin's involvement in the decision-making process for eight seasons demonstrated his commitment to including such a character, but the final decision was ultimately made by the network, which did not want to extend the show beyond seven seasons.

Conclusion

The absence of Lady Stoneheart and Aegon Targaryen is a testament to the missed opportunities in Game of Thrones. Both characters would have added significant depth and emotional weight to the narrative, enriching the storyline and leaving more room for fan discussions and analysis. Their inclusion would have provided a more nuanced exploration of themes and characters, offering a richer and more complex viewing experience for fans of the series.