The Iron Throne Contender: Daenerys Targaryen vs Robert Baratheon

Introduction to Succession Laws in Westeros

Understanding Westerosi succession laws is key to determining which claimant to the Iron Throne has a better right. These laws are clear and well-established, focusing on male heirs and age hierarchy, ensuring continuity and legitimacy within the House Targaryen and other noble houses.

In Westeros, males are preferred in the line of succession, coming before females, and within each generation, the eldest inherits first. This preference is enforced across the realm, and while Dorne and Bear Island deviate slightly from this norm, the primary succession rule still prioritizes the eldest male of the main line. This context sets the stage for a detailed analysis of the claims of Daenerys Targaryen and Robert Baratheon.

Analysis of Daenerys Targaryen's Claim

Daenerys Targaryen comes from the House Targaryen and has a legitimate claim based on bloodline. Born after King Aerys II Targaryen, Daenerys is the thirdborn, following Viserys and Daenerys herself. Despite her lineage, she faces significant challenges:

She is a female, and while no explicit law debars female heirs, the prevailing patriarchal norms in Westeros might make it difficult for her to be recognized. She is not residing in Westeros, which complicates her ability to assert her claim effectively. Her line is deposed, making her position tenuous.

Daenerys' eldest brother, Viserys, is considered the secondary line, inheriting if none of Rhaegar's sons survive. Currently, Daenerys is the only direct descendant with a claim, but her legitimacy still faces questions due to her estrangement from the Seven Kingdoms.

Assessment of Robert Baratheon's Claim

Robert Baratheon has a more complex but solid claim through his conquest of the Iron Throne. While his lineage is seen as questionable, his actions in winning the throne give him a practical claim:

As a male, he adheres to the prevailing succession laws. He secured the throne through conquest, establishing a claim recognized by the Great Council. Baratheon's title is not strictly tied to the Targaryen name, making it more palatable to the nobility and populace.

Robert's claim is further supported by the fact that Targaryen loyalists were a significant threat to his rule, leading to his need to secure his legitimacy through military conquest. His claim is recognized by the political landscape of the Westerosi nobility.

Current Claimants and Potential Heralds

The immediate contenders include:

Jon Snow: Claimed as Rhaegar Targaryen's son, he has the advantage of being male and a trueborn child. However, the legitimacy of his claims might be doubted. Daenerys Targaryen: As the only daughter of Aerys II Targaryen, her claim remains significant but is challenged by her gender and her absence from the Seven Kingdoms. Viserys Targaryen: Deceased, but his legacy and potential heirs continue to play a role. Edric Storm and Gendry: Both have claims based on potential connections to House Targaryen but are less likely to be recognized. Stannis Baratheon and Shireen Baratheon: Legitimate heirs who might emerge as significant contenders if circumstances change.

Debate and military support are the key factors in determining the ultimate claim to the Iron Throne. With significant claimants and potential herals, the contest remains open until both a legitimate heir and their support are established.

Conclusion

The claim to the Iron Throne is a complex interplay of bloodline, legitimacy, and military power. While Daenerys Targaryen holds the genetic claim, Robert Baratheon has demonstrated political and military control, making it difficult to conclusively favor one over the other.