Did Rhaenys and Visenya Share the Same Opinion of Aegon?

When diving into the annals of Westerosi history, the opinions of the sisters Rhaenys and Visenya Targaryen towards their eldest son, Aegon, prove to be a murky and elusive subject. What were their true feelings? Their servants and other plebeians would have held valuable insights, but these voices were conveniently made invisible by the chroniclers of Westeros. The maesters from the Citadel, who are often criticized for their narrow viewpoints, exemplify this tendency to ignore the perspectives of those lower in the social hierarchy. Despite this scholarly shortcoming, it is essential to examine the historical evidence that can provide us with a glimpse into the minds of these enigmatic characters and their thoughts regarding Aegon.

The Role of Maesters and Historical Records

The maesters of the Citadel are renowned for their meticulous scholarship and preservation of knowledge, but their historical records often prioritize the narratives of the nobility. An example of this biased perspective can be seen in the maester who wrote the chronicle entry on Maester Marwin. Rather than acknowledging his groundbreaking inquiries into the lives of the non-noble, these maesters fear and mock him, further illustrating the distortion of history that can occur when the views of the lower classes are overlooked. Understanding the true impact of these biases is crucial in reconstructing a more balanced and accurate history of the Targaryens and their contemporaries.

Historical Evidence and the Opinions of Rhaenys and Visenya

While we do not have direct accounts from Rhaenys and Visenya themselves, we can infer their potential opinions by examining their actions and the legacies they left behind. Rhaenys, known for her fierce and strategic nature, may have held a more pragmatic view towards Aegon, considering his positioning within their conquest efforts. Her military prowess and commitment to the Targaryen cause suggest that she likely supported Aegon's aspirations, despite the risks involved. On the other hand, Visenya, known for her cunning and determined demeanor, might have viewed Aegon through a more tactical lens. Her influence over the dragon Balerion, the Heir to the Fire, indicates a strategic mindset, which could align with a supportive yet reserved stance towards her son.

The Sisterly Bond and Maternal Instinct

The sisterly bond between Rhaenys and Visenya was one of mutual respect and companionship. As the sisters faced the challenges of leading the Targaryen forces, their relationship undoubtedly played a significant role in their ability to persevere. This bond could have fostered a sense of unity and purpose, potentially leading to a cohesive and resilient leadership approach. It is plausible that their shared maternal instincts and responsibility towards Aegon influenced both their individual and collective opinions. Rhaenys's love for science and exploration, coupled with Visenya's admiration for strategic might, might have resulted in a complementary perspective on Aegon, with each sister contributing unique insights to the family's political and military strategies.

Conclusion

Although the exact opinions of Rhaenys and Visenya towards Aegon remain shrouded in historical mystery, it is clear that their sisterly relationship and individual characters likely influenced their perspectives. By considering the historical context, the actions of the sisters, and their circumstances, we can form a more nuanced understanding of their opinions. Diving into the annals of Westeros and acknowledging the often-overlooked voices of lesser characters can enrich our knowledge of the Targaryen dynasty and the complex relationships that shaped their reign.

For further exploration, readers might consider delving into the works of lesser-known chroniclers, examining the family dynamics within the Targaryen household, and analyzing the strategies employed by Rhaenys and Visenya in their pursuit of power and prosperity.