House Baratheon: An Intriguing History and Its Impact in Game of Thrones

House Baratheon is one of the most influential and dynamic families in the world of Game of Thrones. From their humble beginnings to their rise to power in King's Landing, the Baratheons have played a crucial role in the grand saga of Westeros. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about House Baratheon and explore why they have remained a compelling force in the narrative.

The Birth of House Baratheon

Blood of My Blood - The origins of House Baratheon trace back to when Orys Baratheon, a general of King Aegon I Targaryen, married Argella Durrandon, the only daughter of the last Storm King, Argilac Durrandon. This union created the Baratheon line, which has since been marked by its connection to both Valyrian blood and the Targaryen dynasty. According to legend, the Baratheons are descendants of gods and Valyrians, allowing them to potentially ride dragons or have dragon dreams. This notion is further exemplified by Princess Shireen Baratheon's experience with dragon dreams.

The Storm and the Gods

The First Storm - The roots of House Durrandon, the original inhabitants of Storm’s End, date back to the Age of Heroes. It is said that during this era, a mythical warrior named Durran won the love of Elendil, the daughter of the sea and wind gods. When Elendil refused her parent's wishes to marry her, the gods sent a storm to proclaim their disapproval. Durran declared war on the gods and vowed to build a castle that could withstand their wrath. The castle, known as Storm's End, was built seven times before it stood firm, earning the Baratheons a reputation as having blood of the gods themselves.

Wars and Alliances

A Dance with Dragons - During the Dance of the Dragons, Lord Borros Baratheon supported Aegon II Targaryen, aligning himself with the Greens. His father, Lord Boremund, had a different allegiance, supporting the Blacks through his sister Jocelyn. Despite reluctance, Borros and his army marched towards King's Landing to support Aegon II. However, after a series of battles and victories, Borros was killed by Lord Kermit Tully during the final confrontation, leaving the Stormlands to the Blacks. This event not only influenced the political landscape of the Crownlands but also marked the decline of the Baratheon influence in the region.

Rebellion and Redemption

Two Swords - The Baratheon's rebellion against the Targaryens began several years before the events of Game of Thrones. During King Aegon V Targaryen's reign, his son, Prince Duncan, broke his marriage vows to Lady Jocelyn Baratheon's daughter and married a peasant girl, igniting a rebellion by House Baratheon of Storm's End. The legendary Ser Duncan the Tall served as the king's champion in the trial by combat that followed, ultimately defeating Lord Lyonel and quelling the revolt. The king eventually married Rhaelle to Lord Lyonel's heir, Ormund, and their son, Steffon, later became the father of Robert Baratheon, Stannis Baratheon, and Renly Baratheon.

Roberts Rebellion

You Win or You Die - Roberts Rebellion stands out as one of the most destructive wars in Westerosi history. Following the murder of Rickard and Brandon Stark, and the kidnapping of Lyanna Stark by Rhaegar Targaryen, Robert Baratheon, along with Lords Ned Stark and Jon Arryn, joined forces to overthrow King Aerys II Targaryen. The war lasted two grueling years, with Robert ultimately defeating Rhaegar in the Battle of the Trident and establishing himself as the new king. The discovery of Robert Baratheon's true father and childhood friend, Ned Stark, strengthened the Baratheon's bond with the Starks, shaping the complex relationships that would follow.

Conclusion

House Baratheon's history is a testament to their resilience and adaptability in the tumultuous world of Westeros. Their connection to Valyrian blood, their influence in the Age of Heroes, and their pivotal roles in major conflicts such as the Dance of the Dragons and Roberts Rebellion reinforce their significance in the Game of Thrones narrative.