Understanding the Valyrian Marriage Tradition and Aegon's Choices

In the vast tales of Westeros, Aegon Targaryen’s marriage to both Rhaenys and Visenya presents a complex narrative that intertwines Valyrian customs, family dynamics, and strategic considerations. Let's delve into the reasons behind this unconventional choice and explore the historical context that shapes this unique practice.

The Context: Valyrian Customs and Valarian Rules

Valyrian customs were deeply rooted in a matrilineal and polygamous marriage system. In the Valyrian Freehold, it was customary for older sisters to be married off to the same man. This tradition was not just a cultural norm but a political requirement to ensure the continuity of power and the bloodline.

When Aegon Targaryen landed at Dragonstone to claim the Iron Throne, he was not only a symbol of his house but also a representation of Valyrian rule. Despite his personal feelings, Aegon was expected to adhere to these customs to maintain his legitimacy and stability within the fractured Seven Kingdoms.

Marriage as Duty and Power

Aegon’s marriage to both sisters, while seemingly problematic, was a calculated move to ensure the survival and dominance of House Targaryen. Here are some key reasons:

The Protection of Dragons

Visenya, with her mastery over dragonfire, played a crucial role in the Targaryen Conquest. The death of one of the dragons, either through natural causes or battle, would have significantly impacted the Targaryen power. By marrying Visenya, Aegon ensured that hereditary rights to the dragons were preserved.

The risk of another house claiming dragons was real. Houses such as Velaryon had ambitions to capitalize on the Targaryen weaknesses. For instance, if Meleys Vhagar and Seasmoke were under another house's control, they could have easily threatened the Targaryens' rule. This makes it even more critical for Aegon to maintain the ironclad grip on the dragons and their legacy.

Fertility and Succession

Aegon's failure to father children was a serious concern. The loss of one wife who could not produce heirs would have jeopardized the Targaryen line. By marrying both Rhaenys and Visenya, Aegon ensured there would always be a legitimate claim to the throne, even if one marriage proved infertile.

Legitimacy and Stability

A marriage to Rhaenys was Aegon’s personal preference, driven by love and devotion. However, marrying Visenya, his older sister, was a matter of duty. This arrangement ensured that any potential disputes over the succession could be mitigated. Rhaenys, the sister-wife, was seen as Aegon's favored wife, while Visenya represented the duty to the bloodline.

The Nature of Targaryen Rule: Power and Conquest

The Targaryens’ rise to power and their rule were characterized by a blend of strategic marriages, military conquest, and religious fervor. Aegon’s marriages were just one part of his broader strategy to maintain and expand Targaryen rule.

With the rise of a new religion centered around the Seven Kingdoms, the Targaryens needed to adapt their customs to align with the new societal norms. This flexibility allowed them to navigate the political landscape of Westeros while preserving their core values and traditional practices.

Conclusion: Aegon's Short-Sightedness and the Legacy of Targaryen Rule

Aegon Targaryen’s marriages to both Rhaenys and Visenya were complex decisions rooted in both duty and ambition. While they led to the inevitable succession crisis later on, they were a necessary part of Targaryen strategy to maintain their rule and expand their power.

Despite their initial success, the Targaryens’ rule was marked by instability, partly due to their short-sighted approach to governance and the lack of a clear social framework. The marriage custom was one tool among many in the Targaryen armory, designed to secure their power in a hostile and ever-changing world.