The Reasons Behind the Targaryen Conquest of Westeros: Insights into Aegon’s Motivations

The Targaryen conquest of Westeros marked a pivotal turning point in the history of the Seven Kingdoms, dramatically altering the political and cultural landscape of the realm. Despite the legend of Aegon the Conqueror, the reasons behind his decision to initiate the Conquest remain complex and multifaceted. This article explores the motivations driving Aegon I and his family, including the need for an eternal empire, the desire to spread Valyrian culture, and the strategic advantages offered by the impending invasion.

Desire for an Eternal Empire

Aegon I Targaryen, who would later be known as Aegon the Conqueror, was motivated by his vision to unify the Seven Kingdoms under a single rulership. This ambition was not just personal but also strategic, as he saw the fractured nature of the Westerosi kingdoms as an opportunity to consolidate power and create a lasting legacy. The division of the Seven Kingdoms into seven petty states made them vulnerable and easy targets for a resolute conqueror like Aegon. By conquering Westeros, Aegon aimed to establish an empire that would stand the test of time and ensure the prosperity and stability of his dynasty.

Spread of Valyrian Culture and Influence

The Targaryens were heavily influenced by their Valyrian heritage, and this cultural and religious legacy played a significant role in their decision to conquer Westeros. Valyrian culture was known for its advanced metallurgy, arts, and architecture, which the Targaryens sought to bring to the Westerosi continent. Aegon, in particular, was deeply committed to spreading the Valyrian faith and way of life, viewing it as a means to elevate the cultural and political stature of his family and their empire. The Targaryens believed that their rule would bring prosperity and enlightenment to the Westerosi peoples, ultimately reshaping their society and ensuring a more harmonious and integrated realm.

Strategic Advantages and the Dragon Legacy

The Targaryen’s conquest of Westeros was also facilitated by their unique advantage: the dragons. The legacy of their ancestors in the mythical times of Elders and Dragonlords contributed significantly to Aegon’s quest for dominion. Dragonlore, which includes the lore of Balerion the Black Dread, painted the dragons not just as mythical creatures but as instruments of power. Aegon’s bond with Balerion, the largest and most powerful of the Targaryen dragons, further cemented the dragon legacy and imbued him with a sense of power and invincibility. Aegon’s dragon, Balerion, was used as a tool of war and intimidation, allowing him to accomplish feats that would have been impossible otherwise. The use of fire and blood, the primary methods Aegon employed in his conquest, were a clear display of the dragon’s power and the Targaryens' strategic advantage.

Succession Crisis and the Painted Table

The period leading up to the Targaryen Conquest was marked by a succession crisis, which initially seemed to set back the family’s plans. However, Aegon, known for his deliberation and ambition, used this crisis to his advantage. He meticulously prepared for the invasion, ensuring that all the necessary preparations were in place, including the construction of the Painted Table in the Chamber of the Painted Table. This table, painted to represent the geography of Westeros, served as a strategic tool, allowing Aegon to plan and visualize his campaign in detail. The construction of this table was a symbol of Aegon’s long-term vision and his confidence in the impending conquest.

Furthermore, the decision to wait for Rhaenys’s midwifery skills to give birth to Aegon and his sisters was a strategic move. This allowed the Targaryen family to claim the Iron Throne with divine right, as it was believed that the son of a Targaryen and a dragon would be destined for greatness. This was a meta-strategy, given that the Targaryens were known for their ability to marry dragons, a notion that underscored their special status and divine mandate.

Conclusion

The Targaryen Conquest of Westeros was driven by a complex interplay of political, cultural, and strategic motivations. Aegon I Targaryen was motivated by the desire to create an eternal empire, spread Valyrian culture, and leverage the strategic advantage provided by his family’s dragons. These factors combined to form a formidable force that reshaped Westeros forever. Understanding these motivations is crucial for comprehending the lasting impact of this pivotal event in Westerosi history.