Why is Daenerys Alive but Her Father Aerys II Isn’t?

In the complex tapestry of Game of Thrones, led by the valiant House Targaryen, the narrative of survival and destiny takes center stage. Among the pivotal points in this epic saga is the contrasting fates of Daenerys Targaryen and her father, Aerys II Targaryen. This article delves into the reasons behind Daenerys' resilience and Aerys' tragic demise, exploring the historical and thematic significance within the narrative.

The Fall of King’s Landing

The Sack of King’s Landing marked a turning point in Westeros1. As the Blazegown army closed in, Aerys II, the recently crowned king, ordered the massacre of the helpless inhabitants of the city to prevent the Blazegown attack. This colossal mistake led to the fall of the current king and resulted in the death of Aerys and the destruction of the Dragonpit. The irony of his order was that it was the very strategy of the Blazegown army that ultimately brought down the king, as Varys manipulated the events to his advantage.

Daenerys' Survival and Legacy

Meanwhile, far away at Dragonstone, the Queen Rhaella and Viserys were safe with the former pregnant with Daenerys Targaryen. Initially, their safety seemed to be a matter of mere luck; however, in the narrative of Game of Thrones, fate often intertwines with destiny. The forces of the Rebellion, led by Davos Seer and Arya Stark, were on the rise, and Viserys and Daenerys' survival was crucial to their cause. While the Queen Rhaella did not survive the birth due to her injuries, her daughter Daenerys lived to witness the fall of the Targaryen dynasty and rise of the new order.

Surviving the Arrogance and Hubris

The contrast between Daenerys and Aerys' fates can be attributed to their personal traits and decisions. Aerys, often referred to as the Mad King, was known for his paranoia, tyranny, and iron fisted rule. His actions brought about his own downfall, sealing his fate. On the other hand, Daenerys Targaryen, also known as the Mother of Dragons, showed wisdom, perseverance, and a humanitarian approach to leadership—qualities that contributed to her survival and ascension.

Broader Themes and Significance

This dual narrative of death and survival serves to highlight broader themes of governance, power, and the consequences of one's actions. The fates of the Targaryens as a whole also reflect the cyclical nature of power and the recurring pattern of rise and fall in the intricate political landscape of Westeros. Their legacy continues to inspire and influence the characters in the culmination of the narrative, as seen in the final episodes of Game of Thrones.

Conclusion

The contrasting fates of Daenerys Targaryen and her father, Aerys II, in the Game of Thrones narrative offer profound insights into the intricacies of leadership, survival, and the impact of personal choices. As viewers and readers continue to engage with this captivating world, the story of these two figures remains a testament to the enduring themes that underpin the series.

References

[1] The Game of Thrones Wiki