Targaryen Civil War: Dance of the Dragons
The Targaryen Civil War, known as the Dance of the Dragons, was a brutal conflict in Westeros between rival factions of House Targaryen over the Iron Throne. It erupted after King Viserys I’s death, as his daughter Rhaenyra and his son Aegon II both claimed the crown. The war saw devastating battles, political intrigue, and the near extinction of dragons, ultimately weakening House Targaryen’s power and altering the realm’s history.
Targaryen Civil War: Dance of the Dragons
The Targaryen Civil War, known as the Dance of the Dragons, was a brutal conflict in Westeros between rival factions of House Targaryen over the Iron Throne. It erupted after King Viserys I’s death, as his daughter Rhaenyra and his son Aegon II both claimed the crown. The war saw devastating battles, political intrigue, and the near extinction of dragons, ultimately weakening House Targaryen’s power and altering the realm’s history.
💡 Key Takeaways
- Identify the rival factions and leaders (Rhaenyra vs. Aegon II) and their key supporters.
- Outline the timeline of the Dance of the Dragons, including major turning points from Viserys I's death to the war's end.
- Explain how dragons influenced warfare, politics, and legitimacy during the conflict.
- Assess the lasting consequences for the Targaryen dynasty and Westeros, including dragon decline and dynastic instability.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Dance of the Dragons?
A Targaryen civil war over who should sit on the Iron Throne after Viserys I's death, fought between Rhaenyra Targaryen (the Blacks) and her half-brother Aegon II (the Greens), with dragons playing a central role.
Who were the main sides and leaders?
The Blacks supported Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen, with Daemon Targaryen among her key followers; the Greens backed Aegon II Targaryen, backed by various nobles and dragonriders.
When and where did it take place?
Circa 129–131 AC, mainly in King's Landing, Dragonstone, and other Targaryen-held territories.
What were the consequences of the war?
Widespread destruction and political chaos; many dragons died, the realm was weakened, and the Targaryen dynasty entered a harsher era with a diminished dragon population.
Why is it significant in Westerosi history?
It shows how internal dynastic disputes can devastate a realm and dramatically reduce dragons, shaping future power struggles in the years that followed.