Summary:
- Aegon II struggles to speak High Valyrian in House of the Dragon, unlike other Targaryens.
- This detail reflects Aegon’s lack of interest in his lineage and responsibilities.
- His brother Aemond uses his linguistic weakness to humiliate him.
- Aegon’s inability ties into his unpreparedness for kingship, sparking sibling rivalry.
House of the Dragon delves into the struggles of Aegon II as he rises to power in a divided Westeros. While the Targaryens are known for their mastery of High Valyrian, Aegon’s inability to speak fluently in his ancestral tongue is both shocking and symbolic.
Why Aegon II Struggles With High Valyrian?
Targaryens have always prided themselves on their Old Valyrian heritage, reflected in their mastery of High Valyrian. Speaking this ancient language is seen as a mark of their superiority, tying them to their dragon-riding legacy. Characters like Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones showcased fluency in High Valyrian, underlining its importance to their identity.
However, in House of the Dragon Season 2, Episode 4, Aegon II reveals his struggles with the language during a council scene. When his brother Aemond addresses him in High Valyrian, Aegon falters, unable to form coherent sentences. His hesitant reply—“I can…have to…make a…war?”—reveals his discomfort and lack of practice. Unlike his siblings, Aegon shows little interest in embracing his heritage, a striking contrast to the fluent and confident Aemond.
Aegon’s disinterest in High Valyrian can be traced back to his apathy toward Targaryen traditions. Unlike Daenerys or even Aemond, Aegon prioritizes indulgence over duty, neglecting lessons in the language and its cultural significance. This indifference not only sets him apart but also highlights his lack of preparation for the responsibilities of kingship.
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How Does Aemond Use Aegon’s Weakness Against Him?
Aegon’s inability to speak High Valyrian serves as a tool for Aemond to assert dominance over his elder brother. In the council scene, Aemond deliberately speaks in High Valyrian, forcing Aegon to confront his shortcomings in front of others. This subtle humiliation underscores the growing tension between the brothers, with Aemond positioning himself as the more capable heir.
This linguistic failure is not just a reflection of Aegon’s inadequacies but also a strategic advantage for Aemond. As someone who excels in Targaryen traditions, Aemond uses his knowledge and skills to undermine Aegon’s authority. His fluency in High Valyrian and command over Vhagar, the largest living dragon, make him a formidable presence, both on the battlefield and in political maneuvers.
Moreover, Aegon’s reliance on the common tongue even to command his dragon, Sunfyre, further emphasizes his detachment from Targaryen customs. This deviation from tradition not only weakens his standing among his peers but also fuels Aemond’s ambitions to overshadow him.
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What Does This Mean for Aegon’s Kingship?
Aegon’s struggles with High Valyrian symbolize his broader unpreparedness for kingship. Unlike Aemond, who embraces the weight of his heritage, Aegon’s focus on personal pleasures leaves him ill-equipped to lead. This becomes a recurring theme in Season 2, as Aegon grapples with the responsibilities of ruling while contending with his insecurities.
Despite his shortcomings, Aegon makes attempts to rise to the occasion. He exposes his son, Jaehaerys, to council meetings, hoping to instill a sense of duty in him from a young age. However, these efforts are overshadowed by his ongoing identity crisis. Named after Aegon the Conqueror, Aegon II struggles to live up to the expectations associated with his name. His linguistic failure, coupled with his lack of strategic and political acumen, paints a tragic picture of a king out of his depth.
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