Everything we know about Lady Jeyne Arryn in House of the Dragon

In the world of House of the Dragon, the Game of Thrones prequel series based on George R.R. Martin’s Fire and Blood, Jeyne Arryn was an important figure in the Targaryen Civil War. Known as the Maiden of the Vale, this ancestor of Lord Jon Arryn played a significant role in shaping the fate of the Seven Kingdoms.

Who was Jeyne Arryn?

Credits: HBO

Jeyne Arryn inherited the title of Lady of the Eyrie at the age of three after the Stone Crows, a hill tribe, killed her father and older brothers. As the head of House Arryn, she faced numerous challenges to her rule, including rebellions from her own family members. Despite these obstacles, Jeyne established herself as a cunning and powerful leader, earning the moniker “the Maiden of the Vale.”

Her political acumen was evident in her dealings with various factions, including her rejection of Prince Daemon Targaryen’s claim to Runestone after the death of his wife, Lady Rhea Royce. Jeyne’s decisions and alliances, particularly during the Dance of the Dragons, had far-reaching consequences for the Seven Kingdoms.

Quick facts about Jeyne Arryn

• Became Lady of the Eyrie at age three
• Successfully defended her rule against multiple challengers
• Played a crucial role in the Dance of the Dragons by supporting the Blacks
• Never married or had children
• Served as one of the regents for King Aegon III after the war
• Her death sparked a war of succession in the Vale

Jeyne Arryn in House of the Dragon

Credits: HBO

Early mentions

In the first season of House of the Dragon, Jeyne Arryn is mentioned but not seen. Her significance is highlighted when Daemon Targaryen attempts to claim Runestone after the death of his wife, Rhea Royce. Jeyne’s rejection of his claim demonstrates her authority and sets the stage for her future role in the series.

Alliance with the Blacks

As the Dance of the Dragons begins, Rhaenyra Targaryen anticipates Jeyne’s support due to their shared Arryn blood. Rhaenyra sends her son Jacaerys to negotiate with Jeyne, resulting in the Vale pledging its forces to the Blacks’ cause.

Interactions with Rhaena Targaryen

Season 2 explores Jeyne’s relationship with Rhaena Targaryen, who is sent to the Vale as part of the alliance. Their interactions reveal Jeyne’s pragmatic approach to politics and her concerns about the young dragons’ ability to protect the Vale.

Diplomatic maneuvering

Jeyne demonstrates her political savvy by arranging for Rhaena, Aegon, and Viserys to be sent to Pentos for their safety.

Read More: HBO releases official character descriptions of House of The Dragon

Jeyne Arryn in Fire and Blood

Credits: riotarttherite

Early life and rise to power

Fire and Blood provides a detailed account of Jeyne’s early years, including her inheritance of the Eyrie and the challenges she faced from relatives who believed a woman couldn’t rule. Her imprisonment of her cousin Arnold Arryn in the sky cells demonstrates her ruthlessness in maintaining power.

Role in the Dance of the Dragons

The book offers conflicting accounts of Jeyne’s negotiations with Prince Jacaerys. While some sources suggest political pragmatism, others, like the court fool Mushroom, claim more salacious reasons for her support. Regardless, Jeyne’s decision to back Rhaenyra proves crucial to the war effort.

Post-war regency and personal life

After the war, Jeyne serves as one of King Aegon III’s regents. Fire and Blood also delves into her personal life, noting that she never married or had children. The text mentions rumors about her preferences, including a possible relationship with her companion, Jessamyn Redfort.

Legacy and succession crisis

Jeyne’s death in 134 AC from a chest cold leads to a succession crisis in the Vale. Fire and Blood details the various claimants to her position and the year-long war that followed, highlighting the lasting impact of her rule and the importance of her legacy to the Vale and the Seven Kingdoms.

Quotes

“I mislike feeling powerless.” – Jeyne Arryn

“The Vale stands with the rightful queen.” – Jeyne Arryn, pledging support to Rhaenyra Targaryen

Quick answers

Why was Jeyne Arryn called the Maiden of the Vale?

Jeyne earned this nickname due to her lifelong unmarried status and her strong, independent rule over the Vale from a young age. The title reflects both her personal choices and her political autonomy.

What was Jeyne Arryn’s role in the Dance of the Dragons?

Jeyne played a crucial role by aligning the Vale with Rhaenyra Targaryen’s faction, the Blacks. Her support provided significant military strength to Rhaenyra’s cause and helped shape the war’s course.

Why did Jeyne Arryn never marry or have children?

The reasons for Jeyne’s decision to remain unmarried are subject to speculation. Some sources suggest she preferred the company of women, particularly her companion Jessamyn Redfort, while others claim she simply had no interest in marriage or children, focusing instead on ruling the Vale.

Read More: Game of Thrones’ Robin Arryn is all grown up now, and fans are going crazy over his ‘Sex Education’ role!

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