The Greatest Princes in the History of House Targaryen: A Comparative Analysis

The history of House Targaryen is one rife with legendary princes and kings who, for various reasons, never ascended to the Iron Throne. In this analysis, we shall explore three of the most notable princes from the A Song of Ice and Fire series: Daeron the Good, Baelor Breakspear, and Rhaegar the Last Dragon. We will evaluate their contributions, virtues, and the reasons why they might have been destined for greatness but never captured the Iron Throne.

Daeron the Good

Daeron II Targaryen, the second son of Aegon the Unworthy and Queen Naerys, was a dignified, kind, and strong ruler who contrasted sharply with his seemingly undignified father. Unlike Aegon, Daeron was wise, just, and kind-hearted. He sought guidance from Maesters and used their wisdom to inform his rule. His character was marked by a scholarly approach to governance.

Daeron faced conflict with his own father when Daeron challenged his right to the throne as Prince of Dragonstone, resulting in rumors and a public dispute. His son, Baelor Targaryen, further embodies the qualities of a great ruler. Baelor was a great warrior who led Dornish and Stormlander armies into battle, defeating rebels on the First Blackfyre Rebellion. He was chivalrous, brave, and open-minded, respected and loved by his subjects. His death while fighting for Ser Duncan the Tall was a tragic loss for his kingdom.

Baelor Breakspear

Baelor V Targaryen is remembered as a brave and honorable prince who outperformed his adversary Daemon Blackfyre in a tourney and played a key role in ending the Blackfyre Rebellion. Baelor's character was marked by his chivalry, kindness, and courage. He was also a skilled warrior and capable commander, making him a perfect fit for any principality or kingdom. However, he had a tragic end, killed by his uncle, Maekar I Targaryen, in a scene from Tales of Dunk and Egg.

Daeron’s son, Baelor, would have been a paragon of a king - too good to merely be a prince. His tragic death at the hands of his uncle makes the rise to the Iron Throne difficult to achieve. If Baelor had lived to rule, it would have been too easy, and we would miss the drama of his life.

Rhaegar the Last Dragon

Rhaegar Targaryen, known as Rhaegar the Last Dragon, represents the hope of regaining Targaryen honor and glory. He was a symbol of rebirth for House Targaryen and a possible contender to restore their once-great power. Understandably, his demise at the hands of an usurper is a tragic loss for the Targaryens. Rhaegar’s story is one of great promise cut short, making him a figure of immense significance in the history of Westeros.

Both Daeron the Good and Baelor Breakspear put forth impressive displays of chivalry, bravery, and leadership. However, my personal favorite among these princes is Rhaegar the Last Dragon. He symbolizes the potential for revival and the resurgence of House Targaryen, yet his fate remains a tragedy for the series and the Targaryen family.

While these three princes share many qualities, they represent different paths to leadership and greatness. Their stories underscore the complexities of leadership and the impact of historical events on the destiny of a house.