Who is Harwin Strong 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, Harwin Strong is a character who inadvertently has a major effect on the politics of King’s Landing. Known as “Breakbones,” Harwin played a key role in the events leading up to the Targaryen civil war.

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Who was Harwin Strong?

Credit: HBO

Harwin Strong was a knight from House Strong and the heir to Harrenhal. Known as the strongest man in the Seven Kingdoms, he served as a captain in the City Watch of King’s Landing. Harwin gained notoriety as the rumored lover of Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen and the suspected father of her first three sons.

Quick Facts about Harwin Strong

• Nicknamed “Breakbones” due to his incredible strength
• Eldest son and heir of Lord Lyonel Strong of Harrenhal
• Served as Lord Commander of the City Watch of King’s Landing
• Rumored father of Rhaenyra Targaryen’s sons: Jacaerys, Lucerys, and Joffrey
• Died in a mysterious fire at Harrenhal along with his father

Harwin Strong in House of the Dragon

Credit: HBO

Early Appearances

In HBO’s House of the Dragon, Harwin Strong, portrayed by Ryan Corr, first appears during the royal hunt in the Kingswood. He shows admiration for Princess Rhaenyra when she returns from a successful boar hunt, hinting at their future connection.

Encounter with Rhaenyra

Harwin joins the City Watch of King’s Landing, where he encounters Rhaenyra during one of her secret outings with Prince Daemon. This encounter further establishes their growing relationship.

Protector of Rhaenyra

During Rhaenyra’s wedding feast to Laenor Velaryon, Harwin rescues the princess from a chaotic brawl, showcasing his strength and loyalty. This event marks a turning point in their relationship.

Relationship with Rhaenyra

Over the next decade, Harwin becomes Rhaenyra’s lover and the father of her three sons. His close relationship with the princess leads to tensions at court, culminating in a confrontation with Ser Criston Cole that results in his dismissal from the City Watch.

Tragic End

Harwin returns to Harrenhal with his father, where they both perish in a mysterious fire. This event has significant implications for the succession crisis and the brewing conflict between the Blacks and the Greens.

Read More: Who is Lord Lyonel Strong in House of the Dragon?

Harwin Strong in Fire and Blood

Credit: Laura Avellino

Early Life and Court Appearance

In George R.R. Martin’s Fire and Blood, Harwin Strong’s story begins in 105 AC when he’s brought to court by his father, Lord Lyonel Strong. He quickly establishes himself as a formidable figure, earning a position as captain of the gold cloaks.

Relationship with Rhaenyra

The book details Harwin’s growing closeness to Princess Rhaenyra, including an incident in 113 AC where Mushroom claims to have found them in bed together. This relationship becomes a source of scandal and political tension.

Tourney Incident

During a tourney in 114 AC, Ser Criston Cole breaks Harwin’s collarbone and shatters his elbow, leading to Mushroom’s mockingly calling him “Brokenbones.”

Role in Rhaenyra’s Household

The book describes Harwin’s position as Rhaenyra’s sworn shield and his presence during significant events, such as the birth of her sons. These details fuel the rumors about his relationship with the princess.

Mysterious Death

Fire and Blood presents multiple theories about the fire that killed Harwin and his father at Harrenhal, suggesting various potential culprits and motives.

Read More: Who is Larys Strong in House of the Dragon?

Quotes

“He was gentle, and fierce. They called him ‘Breakbones.’ He loved us, I think.” – Jacaerys Velaryon about Harwin Strong

“The strongest knight in the Seven Kingdoms.” – Description of Harwin Strong

Quick Answers

Why was Harwin Strong called “Breakbones”?

Harwin earned the nickname “Breakbones” due to his exceptional physical strength. In Fire and Blood, the name “Brokenbones” originated after Ser Criston Cole broke Harwin’s bones during a tourney.

What was Harwin Strong’s relationship with Rhaenyra Targaryen?

Harwin Strong was rumored to be Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen’s lover and the true father of her first three sons. While their relationship was never officially acknowledged, it was a widely believed secret at court that contributed to the political tensions leading to the Dance of the Dragons.

How did Harwin Strong die?

Harwin Strong died in a fire at Harrenhal in 120 AC, along with his father, Lord Lyonel Strong. The cause of the fire remains a mystery, with various theories suggesting it could have been an accident, assassination, or even the curse of Harrenhal.

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