In the third season of House of the Dragon, Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen makes it clear that she refuses to follow the brutal example set by Maegor Targaryen, one of the most tyrannical rulers in Westerosi history. Maegor, the son of Aegon the Conqueror, was infamous for his ruthless reign, which was marked by violence and oppression.
Although Maegor was Aegon’s son, it was his half-brother, Aenys I Targaryen, who first ascended the Iron Throne after their father’s conquest. Aenys’s reign ended amid turmoil caused by a rebellion led by the Faith of the Seven. Following his illness and subsequent death, the throne passed to Maegor, whose rule would become a dark chapter in Targaryen history.
A reign defined by fear and ruthless power plays
Like his father, Maegor was the rider of Balerion, the colossal dragon famously known as “The Black Dread.” He also wielded Darkfire, the formidable sword passed down from Aegon. His ascension was marred by controversy, especially regarding the succession. Grand Maester Gawen contended that the rightful heir should have been Aegon, son of Aenys. Maegor silenced this opposition by ordering Gawen’s execution, effectively eliminating dissent.
To secure his hold on the throne, Maegor took drastic measures against his extended family. He held Jaehaerys and Alysanne, children of his brother Aenys, hostage, while the young Viserys was compelled to serve as Maegor’s squire. These actions reinforced the brutal and suspicious atmosphere that defined his rule.
The internal conflicts within House Targaryen were not limited to the well-known Dance of the Dragons. Maegor’s reign exemplified the early, fierce power struggles that plagued the dynasty, setting a precedent for the violent and treacherous battles over the Iron Throne in the years to come.