Phia Saban explains why Alicent makes Helaena marry Aegon despite following Faith of the Seven

The Targaryens, being of Valyrian descent, follow certain customs and practices rooted in Valyrian culture. These customs and practices shaped the Targaryen dynasty and influenced their actions throughout Westerosi’s history. The Targaryens’ commitment to preserving their dragon blood legacy, led to their practice of incestuous marriages, which was seen as a necessary means to maintain their power and status.

Faith of the Seven condemns incest

Alicent Hightower, a devout follower of the Faith of the Seven, seems to contradict her beliefs by marrying her daughter Helaena to her son Aegon. This apparent paradox can be explained by Alicent’s prioritization of political expediency over religious doctrine. She likely believes that securing the Iron Throne for her family is more important than adhering to the Faith’s teachings on incest.

Additionally, her noble family legacy and personal ambition may lead her to compromise her religious beliefs to achieve her goals. Phia Saban in an interview with HBO Max Tiktok channel explains,

“I know, it’s an interesting one. I think whatever happens, she would probably have been forced into a marriage of convenience. and you know to serve something politically because that’s just how they grew up. So maybe Alicent’s thinking was like it’s better the evil you know. so maybe it’s better to keep it in the family, to keep an eye on everything. because she essentially doesn’t live a married life.

She spends a lot of time with her mum and in her room with her things. So I guess in a way if she was married to someone else and she was sent somewhere, then she would not have that freedom, that like being at least known by her husband that afforded her.”

tiktok/streamonmax pic.twitter.com/pPse9BRmPB

— best of phia saban (@bestofphia) August 26, 2024

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Would Helaena’s life differ if she married someone else?

If Helaena hadn’t married Aegon, her life would likely have been marked by a forced marriage of convenience, serving political interests. Alicent’s thinking might have been that it’s better to keep things within the family, maintaining control and familiarity.

Without marrying Aegon, Helaena would probably have been sent to live with her husband’s family, losing the freedom she currently enjoys, which allows her to spend time with her mother and pursue her interests. This alternative path would have likely meant a life of limited autonomy and political maneuvering, highlighting the complexities of Helaena’s situation.

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