Everything we know about Prince Aegon the Younger 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, Rhaenyra’s son Aegon goes on to become an important figure in Westeros. Though he faces huge challenges during the Dance of the Dragons, later in life, he takes on the largest responsibility in the realm.

Who was Aegon Targaryen?

Credits: HBO

Aegon Targaryen, later known as Aegon III, was the son of Prince Daemon Targaryen and Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen. He became king after the Dance of the Dragons. Aegon was known for his melancholy demeanor and dislike of dragons. His reign marked a significant change in Targaryen rule.

Quick facts about Aegon Targaryen

• Named after Aegon the Conqueror (Books)
• Bonded with the dragon Stormcloud as a child (Books and Show)
• Witnessed his mother’s death by dragonfire (Books)
• Ascended the throne at age 10 (Books)
• Known as the Dragonbane due to his aversion to dragons (Books)
• Ruled under a regency until age 16 (Books)

Aegon Targaryen in House of the Dragon

Credits: HBO

Early appearances

House of the Dragon introduces Aegon Targaryen as a young child. Jake and Rory Heard portray the four-year-old Aegon. The show depicts Aegon’s early life on Dragonstone with his family. Aegon travels to King’s Landing with his parents and siblings. He meets his grandfather, King Viserys I Targaryen.

The series shows Aegon’s close relationship with his younger brother, Viserys. They share a bedchamber and are constant companions. Aegon bonds with the dragon Stormcloud during this time. The show portrays Aegon as a quiet, observant child.

During the Dance of the Dragons

In the aftermath of the attempted assassination on her life, Rhaenyra makes the difficult decision to send her children, including Aegon, Viserys, Joffrey, and Rhaena, to the Eyrie for their safety. Concerned for their well-being, she seeks the protection of Lady Jeyne Arryn at the Eyrie, one of the safest fortresses in Westeros.

At the Eyrie, Aegon spends his days playing with toys alongside his younger brother, Viserys, while his baby dragon, Stormcloud, watches over them. During their stay, Lady Jeyne Arryn informs Rhaena that Reggio Haratis, the Prince of Pentos, has agreed to take her and her siblings to safety. Their journey would be aboard the Gay Abandon, a ship that promises to transport them away from the looming conflict. Eventually, Aegon, Viserys, and Joffrey leave the Eyrie together.

Read More: It appears George R. R. Martin had hinted at Jon Snow’s real name in the books years ago!

Aegon Targaryen in Fire and Blood

Credits: Magali Villeneuve

Early life and the Dance of the Dragons

Fire and Blood provides a detailed account of Aegon’s early life. It describes his birth on Dragonstone and his naming after Aegon the Conqueror. The book details Aegon’s close relationship with his brother Viserys. It recounts Aegon’s bonding with the dragon Stormcloud. Fire and Blood narrates Aegon’s experiences during the Dance of the Dragons.

It describes his harrowing escape on Stormcloud when the Triarchy attacks. The book details Aegon’s time as Rhaenyra’s cupbearer in King’s Landing. It recounts the fall of King’s Landing and Aegon’s capture by the Greens. Fire and Blood provides a vivid account of Rhaenyra’s death by dragonfire. It describes how this event traumatizes young Aegon, instilling a lifelong fear of dragons.

Ascension to the throne and early reign

Fire and Blood details Aegon’s ascension to the throne at age ten. It describes the formation of the regency council and the appointment of Hands. The book recounts Aegon’s marriage to his cousin Jaehaera Targaryen. It details the challenges of Aegon’s early reign, including the Hour of the Wolf.

Fire and Blood describes Aegon’s personality as a young king. It portrays him as melancholy, withdrawn, and disinterested in many royal activities. The book details Aegon’s aversion to dragons and his lack of interest in reviving them. It recounts significant events of his reign, including the Winter Fever epidemic. Fire and Blood provides insight into Aegon’s relationships with his regents and advisors.

Later reign and legacy

Fire and Blood covers Aegon’s reign after he comes of age. It describes his efforts to consolidate power and rule effectively. The book details Aegon’s second marriage to Daenaera Velaryon after Jaehaera’s death. It recounts Aegon’s relationships with his half-sisters and his brother Viserys’s return.

Fire and Blood describes Aegon’s policies and their impact on the realm. It details the decline of dragons during his reign, earning him the nickname “Dragonbane”. The book provides an account of Aegon’s later years and his death at age 36. It describes the legacy of Aegon’s reign and its impact on future Targaryen rule.

Read More: Game of Thrones season 7 finale revealed Jon Snow’s real name, and the fans are losing it!

Quotes

“Your sons by Prince Daemon will also be given places of high honor at court: Aegon the Younger as the king’s squire, Viserys as his cupbearer.” – Otto Hightower

Quick answers

Why was Aegon III called the Dragonbane?

Aegon III earned the nickname “Dragonbane” due to his aversion to dragons. This fear stemmed from witnessing his mother’s death by dragonfire. During his reign, the last Targaryen dragons died out.

How did Aegon III become king?

Aegon III became king after the Dance of the Dragons ended. He was the only surviving male heir of the Targaryen line after the deaths of Aegon II and Rhaenyra.

What was Aegon III’s reign like?

Aegon III’s reign began with a regency until he turned 16. His rule was marked by efforts to restore peace after the civil war. He was known for his melancholy demeanor and disinterest in many royal activities.

Stream House of the Dragon on Max | Save up to 20%

Stream House of the Dragon, Game of Thrones and more HBO Original series on Max. Sign up and save up to 20% with an annual plan.

Subscribe Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.