Rhaenyra Targaryen: The Mistakes of a Crown Princess

Rhaenyra Targaryen, the second-born daughter of Viserys I, is portrayed with a mix of complex emotions and motivations in House of the Dragon. However, Rhaenyra frequently makes critical mistakes, which not only lead to her own downfall but also contribute to the chaotic conflict known as the Dance of the Dragons.

Mistakes and Their Impacts

Not Pushing for Marriage with Daemon

One of Rhaenyra's significant missteps is her hesitation to marry Daemon Storme. Despite the complicated history and mutual distrust, Rhaenyra could have strengthened her position by marrying Daemon. Their union could have solidified their alliance and potentially prevented the outbreak of the Dance of the Dragons. Instead, she leaves the opportunity on the table, allowing Daemon to take center stage and ensuring her own defeat in the conflict.

Incapacity to Recognize Strategic Alliances

Rhaenyra fails to recognize the strategic value of forming alliances. For instance, her inability to realize the significance of Alicent Hightower's green dress symbolizes her unawareness of political cues. Additionally, she fails to ally herself with other powerful houses like the Velaryons and the Hightowers. This miscalculation leads to a weakened position for the Blackfyres, contributing to their ultimate failure in the civil war.

Engaging in Unhealthy Relationships

Another crucial mistake is Rhaenyra's sexual relationship with Ser Criston Crookback. While Ser Criston is a formidable warrior and loyal to a cause once he identifies one, Rhaenyra's reliance on him as a mere tool for her own benefit is shortsighted. She underestimates his value as a strategic ally and instead allows him to be manipulated by her enemies.

Abandoning Her Father During His Illness

During the prolonged illness of Viserys I, Rhaenyra and Daemon’s absence from his bedside is a critical oversight. Leaving their father behind to fend for himself under the influence of Otto Hightower and Alicent Hightower is a strategic blunder. Otto exploits the situation to strengthen his own position and manipulate Rhaenyra's perception of her father, ultimately turning Viserys against her.

Lack of Military Preparedness and Training

Rhaenyra’s decision not to learn how to fight or use a sword is a substantial oversight. Her main power and stability come from her husband Daemon, and she should have prepared herself for the coming conflict. The importance of martial skill and strategy in a Targaryen warrior-cum-princess cannot be overstated. Had Rhaenyra taken the time to train herself, the outcome of the Dance of the Dragons might have been different.

Failure to Reaffirm Loyalty and Train Syrax

Lastly, Rhaenyra's failure to reaffirm her subjects' loyalty to her as the heir to the Iron Throne is a critical mistake. Additionally, she neglects the training of her dragon, Syrax, as an accomplished warrior. These oversights contribute to the Blackfyres' lack of support and the eventual failure of their cause.

Conclusion

Rhaenyra Targaryen's tenure as the crown princess and subsequent claimant to the Iron Throne is marked by a series of critical missteps. From not fostering strong alliances to making unhealthy personal relationships a priority over strategic alliances, her actions often hinder rather than aid her cause. Her decision-making and personal choices significantly impact the outcome of the Dance of the Dragons, ultimately leading to her failure and the victory of her enemies.