A Tangled Web of Blood and Fire
The Targaryens have long been the center of fascination and fear in the realm of Westeros. HBO’s latest epic, “House of the Dragon,” delves further into this enigmatic family’s history, focusing on events nearly two centuries before Daenerys Targaryen and Jon Snow ever graced our screens. But one Targaryen seems to cast a longer, darker shadow than any other—the infamous Mad King, Aerys II.
“We are now starting to know the history of House Targaryen better than ever.”
The Man Before the Madness
Before spiraling into the abyss of insanity, Aerys was initially beloved by his subjects. He sat on the Iron Throne as a just and respected ruler, deeply admired for his peaceful reign.
“Upon his ascension to the Iron Throne, Aerys was a beloved king and was known for being a just, peaceful and respected ruler.”
His life began its twisted descent after a critical event: his capture during the Defiance of Duskendale. Post-rescue by his loyal Kingsguard, Ser Barristan Selmy, the once-admired king was never the same.
“However, as the years went by, Aerys succumbed to madness after he was imprisoned in a rebellion known as the Defiance of Duskendale and returned violent retribution on his perpetrators after he was rescued by his sworn Kingsguard knight, Ser Barristan Selmy.”
Broken Bonds and Fiery Deaths
The first cracks in his relationship with Lord Tywin Lannister, his Hand of the King and old friend, appeared shortly after Aerys’ change. In a malicious move, he appointed Tywin’s son, Jaime Lannister, to his Kingsguard, ensuring Jaime could never inherit Tywin’s fortune or get married.
“In the years that followed, Aerys grew more spiteful towards his Hand of the King and old friend Lord Tywin Lannister.”
The Mad King’s rule took an even darker turn when he accused Brandon Stark and his father Rickard of treason. His punishment? A horrific display of “fire justice,” burning Rickard alive and forcing Brandon to watch, ultimately strangling himself in a futile attempt to save his father.
“Brandon was brought out to witness this with a strangulation device around his neck and a sword just out of reach. As Brandon struggled to save his father, he strangled himself to death, while Rickard burned alive.”
The War that Shook the Kingdoms
These atrocious acts spurred an uprising led by the Stark, Baratheon, and Arryn houses. The war culminated in the Battle of the Trident, where Prince Rhaegar Targaryen was killed by Robert Baratheon—setting off a series of events that would change Westeros forever.
“In the decisive Battle of the Trident, Crown Prince Rhaegar Targaryen was killed in battle by his love rival Lord Robert Baratheon of Storm’s End.”
A Bloody Throne and Torn Vows
When Aerys realized he was losing grip on his reign, he concocted a deadly plan to destroy King’s Landing with caches of Wildfire. Jaime Lannister, torn between his vow and the greater good, chose to kill the king he was sworn to protect.
“In response, Ser Jaime murdered Rossart before the orders could be followed, before returning to the throne room and murdering Aerys himself by driving his sword through him and slitting his throat.”
Though Jaime saved countless lives, he forever tarnished his name, earning him the title of ‘Kingslayer’.
Secrets, Legacies, and Dragons Born in Storms
The aftermath of Aerys’ reign had far-reaching consequences. His daughter Daenerys was born during a storm, gaining the epithet ‘Stormborn’. Meanwhile, his son Rhaegar had left a secret legacy—a child with Lyanna Stark. Eddard Stark, sworn to protect this child, raised him as Jon Snow, setting the stage for future tales of heroism and heartbreak.
“These events occurred 17 years before the central events of Game of Thrones began and 172 years after the prologue of House of the Dragon.”
The Man Behind the Madness
For those curious about the actor who brought Aerys to life in brief visions, the Mad King was portrayed by David Rintoul. This Scottish actor is perhaps better known for his stage work, including his portrayal of Mr. Darcy in a 1980 BBC adaptation of “Pride and Prejudice.”
“King Aerys II Targaryen was portrayed by actor in Game of Thrones. The character only appeared through brief visions experienced by Bran Stark in the series.”
There you have it—a comprehensive look at one of the most chilling and complicated figures in the “Game of Thrones” universe. From beloved ruler to maniacal despot, Aerys II Targaryen’s legacy lives on, serving as a cautionary tale of how power and madness can be a volatile mix.
