First introduced in Game of Thrones, the Targaryens are known for their ability to control dragons and use them to their advantage to fight off enemies and conquer the whole of Westeros.
The prequel House of the Dragon delves deeper into the lore of House Targaryen and their dragon companions, exploring the infamous Targaryen civil war period known as the Dance of the Dragons.
House Targaryen is one of the dragonlord families of the Valyrian Freehold. Though far from the most powerful, they miraculously survive the Doom of Valyria with their dragons.
Dragons are an instrumental part of the Valyrian wars and King Aegon I Targaryen’s conquest of Westeros.
House of the Dragon shows how the Targaryens handled their dragons long before Daenerys, who births her dragon eggs and uses them to wage a deadly war to reclaim Westeros.
That said, here is everything you need to know about dragons' importance in Targaryen culture and warfare.
How Do the Targaryens Control Their Dragons?
The Targaryens conquered Westeros with the help of their dragons. However, different claims exist about how they controlled their dragons.
Some say they use magic and blood sacrifice, while others claim ancient people from Asshai teach them to do so.
In the books, Euron Greyjoy is said to have owned a Valyrian horn called Dragonbinder, which he used to bind dragons to his will.
There’s a possibility that the Targaryens use this horn to control the magical beasts.
The Targaryens’ Bond with Their Dragons
The Targaryens have an intimate bond with their dragons, which goes beyond training and control.
They believe the dragon's blood is running through their veins, giving them the same traits and qualities matching their deadly flying pets.
This connection allows the Targaryens to communicate and control their dragons. They can even speak to them through the ancient High Valyrian language.
In return, the dragons are loyal and respectful to their riders, not letting anyone mount them unless their original rider dies.
How Do the Targaryens Use Dragons in Warfare?
The Targaryens use the full power of their dragons to attack, conquer, and rule over Westeros.
Aegon and his sister-wives, Rhaenys and Visenya, invade Westeros by unleashing their three vicious dragons: Balerion, Meraxes, and Vhagar.
They bring the Seven Kingdoms to their knees and unify them under their rule.
The Targaryens and their dragons invoke fear and respect among the people of Westeros. They use dragons to enact and enforce their laws, fight their enemies, and show their power.
They built the iconic Iron Throne by letting dragons melt their fallen enemies' swords.
The Targaryens and their dragons are two of the Game of Thrones franchise's most intriguing and influential parts.
With the help of fire and blood, they shape Westeros's history, while their origin, relationship, and legacy reflect power, influence, and tragedy.
READ MORE: Targaryens vs Lannisters: Comparing Characters from House of the Dragon and Game of Thrones
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