House Targaryen Basics
House Targaryen is a prominent family in George R.R. Martin’s "A Song of Ice and Fire" series and its TV adaptations. Originating from Valyria, they are known for their silver hair, violet eyes, and dragon-riding abilities. The Targaryens ruled Westeros for nearly 300 years after Aegon the Conqueror’s invasion. Their house words are “Fire and Blood,” reflecting their fiery heritage and often tumultuous reign. Their sigil is a three-headed red dragon on a black field.
House Targaryen Basics
House Targaryen is a prominent family in George R.R. Martin’s "A Song of Ice and Fire" series and its TV adaptations. Originating from Valyria, they are known for their silver hair, violet eyes, and dragon-riding abilities. The Targaryens ruled Westeros for nearly 300 years after Aegon the Conqueror’s invasion. Their house words are “Fire and Blood,” reflecting their fiery heritage and often tumultuous reign. Their sigil is a three-headed red dragon on a black field.
💡 Key Takeaways
- Identify the origins of House Targaryen, its sigil (a red dragon on black) and its colors.
- Understand how dragons fueled Targaryen power and why dragonlord status mattered historically.
- Learn the meaning of the house motto Fire and Blood and what it reveals about Targaryen culture.
- Outline the key rulers and turning points in Targaryen history, including Aegon the Conqueror and the Dance of the Dragons.
- Compare Targaryen background to other Westerosi houses to understand political dynamics and alliances.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Who are House Targaryen?
A noble Valyrian house famed for dragons that ruled Westeros. They originated in Valyria, settled Dragonstone, and later sat on the Iron Throne after unifying the Seven Kingdoms.
What is the Targaryen sigil and colors?
Sigil: a red dragon on a black field. Colors commonly associated with the house are black and red (often with gold accents).
Where did they originate and how did they come to rule Westeros?
Originating in Valyria as dragonlords, they conquered Westeros under Aegon the Conqueror using dragons and established the Targaryen dynasty from Dragonstone, later ruling from the Iron Throne in King's Landing.
Why are dragons central to the Targaryens?
Dragons are their symbol, power source, and tool of conquest—bonding with Targaryens and enabling control over lands and people.
What is the Targaryen motto?
Fire and Blood.