Key Points:
- Dance of Dragons is a major civil war between Blacks (Rhaenyra) and Greens (Aegon II)
- The conflict stems from the succession crisis after King Viserys I’s death
- Features key players including Alicent Hightower and Daemon Targaryen
- Results in the devastation of the Targaryen dynasty and the loss of dragons
The Dance of the Dragons represents the most devastating civil war in Targaryen history, occurring approximately 170 years before Game of Thrones. This pivotal conflict emerges from a succession crisis that divides the realm between two royal claimants, leading to unprecedented devastation and the near extinction of dragons in Westeros.
Understanding the Dance of Dragons’ Key Players and Causes
The conflict’s roots trace to a critical succession dispute between Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen, named heir by her father King Viserys I, and her half-brother Aegon II, supported by the influential Hightower family. This rivalry splits the realm into two factions:
The Blacks, led by Rhaenyra, garnered support from:
- House Velaryon
- The North
- The Vale
- Several dragon riders
The Greens, backing Aegon II, secured alliances with:
- House Hightower
- House Lannister
- Key positions in King’s Landing
READ MORE: Anthony Mackie Reveals Harrison Ford’s Advice on Captain America: Brave New World Set
How the Dance of Dragons’ Major Battles Shaped Westeros
The war features several decisive confrontations that reshape the political landscape:
- The Death of Lucerys Velaryon triggers full-scale warfare
- Rhaenyra’s six-month reign of King’s Landing ends in chaos
- Aegon II’s victory comes at a devastating cost
- The conflict results in the near extinction of dragons
Impact of Alliances on the Dance of Dragons
Internal conflicts among allies significantly influenced the war’s outcome. The Blacks’ initial advantage in dragons and support was undermined by strategic miscalculations and betrayals. Meanwhile, the Greens struggled with loyalty issues despite controlling King’s Landing’s resources.
READ MORE: Why didn’t Moana’s island have enough resources, and how was it connected to the curse?
Available on HBO Max
Season 1 of House of the Dragon is currently streaming, with Season 2 set to explore more of the Dance of Dragons in 2024.
Stay updated with the Latest News and Stories, follow us on our social media platforms.
You can follow us on:
Stay Connected!! Join our Whatsapp Channel
