The “Game of Thrones” prequel, “House of the Dragon,” revolves around the Targaryen dynasty, renowned for their dragon-riding skills, silver hair, and a history of marrying within their bloodline.
The fifth episode of the second season presents the most unusual instance of this practice yet.
Matt Smith’s character, Daemon Targaryen, has been sidelined for most of the season, residing in the ominous Harrenhal castle. His mission is to gather troops for the impending war between his wife, Rhaenyra (Emma D’Arcy), and her brother Aegon (Tom Glynn Carney), who are both vying for the Iron Throne. The recent fourth episode witnessed a fierce dragon battle, resulting in the death of Rhaenyra’s key ally, Rhaenys (Eve Best), and severe injuries to Aegon.
During his stay in Harrenhal, Daemon has been plagued by peculiar dreams and hallucinations, the cause of which remains unclear. It could be the castle’s magic or the work of the enigmatic Alys Rivers (Gayle Rankin).
In the fifth episode, Daemon is seen in an intimate moment with a silver-haired woman, seemingly part of his dream. This woman, unfamiliar to viewers and around Daemon’s age, tells him, “You were always the strong one. The finest swordsman. The fiercest dragon rider. Your brother had love in his heart, but he lacked your constitution,” referring to his late brother, Viserys (Paddy Considine), the previous king. She adds that Daemon was “made to wear” the crown and signs off as his “favorite son,” revealing her identity as his mother.
Daemon awakens from this dream, a poignant reminder that his mother passed away when he was a child and has never appeared on the show.
Daemon’s relationship with his niece and wife, Rhaenyra, is no secret. Similarly, Aegon, who claimed Rhaenyra’s throne, is married to his sister, Helena (Phia Saban).
While incest is not uncommon in “House of the Dragon,” this particular instance is extraordinary. Typically, it occurs between siblings or cousins, not parents and children.
Later in the episode, Alys hints at Daemon’s strange dream, commenting on his lack of knowledge about his mother.
