These days, fans should be familiar with many points in Westerosi history. Not only is there Game of Thrones, but House of the Dragonexplores a different timeframe in the Seven Kingdoms, and later this year, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms will take on another generation. While each story offers something different, they are, in some ways, the same. George R. R. Martin often uses the extensive history of his world to foreshadow his storylines. For proof, just look at the similarities between House of the Dragon and Game of Thrones, from the royal family's bastards trying to pass as legitimate heirs to a former Hand of the King helping his daughter crown her children. These parallels are used so often that, even once Game of Thrones passes the books, the series shows history repeating itself, like Bran (Isaac Hempstead Wright) becoming King over his older brother (cousin?) Jon (Kit Harington). Their situation reflects that of two Targaryen princes 90 years before, who will be important to A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms.
How Does 'Game of Thrones' Ending Reflect Westerosi History?
Game of Thrones ending is controversial, including Bran's role as King because Jon has the better claim. Jon is a Targaryen and, technically, the heir above Daenerys (Emilia Clarke). As a Stark, Bran has no relation to the Targaryens, but as their dynasty was overthrown, that doesn't count him out. However, Jon also has a better claim because of his contributions to the war. He helped unite the Seven Kingdoms against the White Walkers and in Daenerys' successful fight for power. Meanwhile, Bran played no political role in either conflict. Yet, Bran becomes King, and Jon is sent to the North. This positions the pair in an interesting situation where Jon was passed over in Bran's favor, but it's not entirely unique.
Several generations earlier, the Targaryen brothers Aemon (Peter Vaughan) and Aegon V (or Egg) faced a similar dilemma. As the younger two of Maekor I's four sons, neither expected the throne, but their brothers and father died, resulting in a succession crisis. Aemon would be next in line, but as a Maester, he couldn't inherit. Because of his childhood (which A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms will explore with Dexter Sol Ansell as Egg), the Lords considered Aegon "half a peasant" and wanted Aemon to rule regardless of his vows. However, Aemon refused, joining the Night's Watch to strengthen Aegon's claim. Aegon became King of Westeros despite being the younger brother, and Aemon chose to go North, much like Jon and Bran's ending.
Faithfully recreating this element on-screen would be impossible.
Should Jon and Aemon Have Been Kings?
Image via HBO
Bran is an unexpected choice for King, but so is Aegon V, who was given the title Aegon the Unlikely. Meanwhile, Jon and Aemon could have been the King but go to the Wall instead, admittedly, under different circumstances. It's Aemon's choice, but for Jon, it is a punishment for killing Daenerys. Yet, it's fitting for Jon's life to mirror Aemon's as the Maester has a profound impact on him. After all, Aemon sees himself in Jon before anyone knows Jon's heritage and the old Maester tells Jon that "love is the death of duty," a refrain that stays with him and motivates him to kill Daenerys. Aemon's history foreshadowing Jon's story makes perfect sense.
While it is easy to look at either situation and think that the wrong brother became King, that is the point. Jon and Aemon had the temperament to be good leaders. But as Jon reminded us repetitively, they don't want the throne. However, it's not fair to say they would have been better than Bran and Aegon V. For one thing, Bran's rule has not been seen, and like it or not, his abilities recommend him for the job. With so many instances of history repeating itself, someone who can see the past is a great choice to rule. Meanwhile, Aegon V is a memorable Targaryen King, defying many of his family's norms and earning a mixed reputation. His love for the smallfolk angered the Lords, creating several conflicts, but he was a good man. Aegon V and Bran accept the duty of ruling and the difficult situations that come with it. If nothing else, the parallel shows that, as much as fans like to complain about King Bran, there is a precedent.
Game of Thrones is available to stream on Max in the U.S.
Image by Nimesh Niyomal
Image via HBO
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