The HBO series House of the Dragon, adapted from George R.R. Martin’s Fire & Blood, delves into the rich history of the Targaryen dynasty and the tumultuous civil conflict known as the Dance of the Dragons. At the heart of the narrative is Rhaenyra Targaryen, the firstborn and rightful heir of King Viserys I, who asserts her claim to the Iron Throne following her father's passing. However, her entitlement is fiercely contested by her half-brother Aegon II, backed by his mother, Alicent Hightower, and other influential nobles. The ensuing conflict between the two factions is marked by ferocious battles, dragon warfare, betrayal, and bloodshed.

Central to the intrigue of the war is the disputed parentage of Rhaenyra’s first three sons: Jacaerys, Lucerys, and Joffrey. While officially recognized as the offspring of Rhaenyra’s first husband, Laenor Velaryon, the heir of Driftmark, widespread rumors suggest that they are the illegitimate children of Rhaenyra’s paramour. In House of the Dragon, Rhaneyra’s children’s physical characteristics starkly contrast the typical Valyrian traits of silver-gold hair, purple eyes, and refined features. Rhaenyra’s adversaries exploit these differences to undermine her legitimacy and cast doubt upon her claim to the throne.

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Who Is The Father Of Rhaenyra’s Children?

The paternity of Rhaenyra’s children remains a subject of speculation in both the literary and televised renditions of the Targaryen saga. However, subtle indications and insinuations suggest that Ser Harwin Strong is their biological father. In George R.R. In Martin's Fire & Blood, it is depicted that Rhaenyra’s union with Laenor was marred by discord, as Laenor openly embraced his homosexuality and showed no affection towards his wife. His affections lay with his male paramours, particularly Qarl Correy and Joffrey Lonmouth.

Conversely, Rhaenyra was drawn to the dashing and formidable knight, Ser Harwin Strong. Their bond deepened when Harwin, accompanied by his father, Lyonel Strong, the Master of Laws, arrived at court. Subsequently, Harwin assumed the role of a captain of the Gold Cloaks and later became Rhaenyra’s sworn protector. He stood by her side during her sojourn at Dragonstone, where she bore her three sons. In House of the Dragon, the affair between Rhaenyra and Harwin is more overt and explicitly acknowledged.

Notably, in the sixth episode titled The Princess and the Queen, it is unveiled that Harwin is present at the birth of Rhaenyra’s third son, Joffrey, and is the one who bestows the child’s name. He maintains frequent visits to Rhaenyra and her offspring, assuming a paternal role in their lives. Jacaerys, the eldest son, even confronts Rhaenyra about Harwin’s potential paternity, to which she responds that he is, in essence, the father figure to her children. Furthermore, Harwin valiantly defends Rhaenyra against her former lover, Ser Criston Cole, who accuses her of infidelity and treason. In a physical altercation, Harwin triumphs over Criston and professes his love for Rhaenyra, solidifying his commitment to her and her progeny.

Who Is Ser Harwin Strong?

Ser Harwin Strong, also known as Breakbones, is the eldest son and heir of Lord Lyonel Strong of Harrenhal, a prominent and steadfast vassal of the Targaryens. Within his family, he has two sisters, Lysa and Alys, who both serve as handmaids to Rhaenyra, and a younger brother, Larys, who ascends to the ranks of the Confessors, the king’s torturers. Harwin possesses a robust and imposing physique, characterized by his large frame, brown hair, brown eyes, and a distinctive pug nose.

Renowned for his prowess and valor as a knight, he has earned his moniker, Breakbones, through his adeptness at shattering the bones of his adversaries in both tournaments and battles. Furthermore, he is recognized for his unwavering loyalty and ardent affection for Rhaenyra, whom he reveres as his dragon queen. Ser Harwin Strong once quoted:

What Happens To Ser Harwin Strong?

In the pivotal sixth episode of House of the Dragon, Ser Harwin Strong faces a dramatic turn of events. Following his physical altercation with Ser Criston Cole, who had insulted Rhaenyra’s sons, King Viserys I Targaryen dismissed him from the City Watch. Harwin, accompanied by his father, Lord Lyonel Strong, the Hand of the King, retreats to Harrenhal. However, tragedy strikes as Harrenhal is engulfed in flames under the secret instigation of Larys Strong, resulting in the demise of both Harwin and Lyonel. Speculation arises, with some pointing fingers at Queen Alicent Hightower or Prince Daemon Targaryen, suggesting a sinister plot to eliminate potential adversaries.

The loss of Harwin deeply affects Rhaenyra, leaving her grief-stricken and incensed. Despite lingering doubts regarding his legitimacy, she designates her eldest son, Jacaerys, as her rightful heir. Harwin’s untimely demise catalyzes violent and tumultuous events that further fuel the civil war between the Targaryen factions.

House of the Dragon offers a compelling exploration of the Targaryen dynasty's history and the turbulent civil conflict known as the Dance of the Dragons. The portrayal of Rhaenyra's relationship with Ser Harwin Strong adds depth and emotion to the narrative, depicting a forbidden love that defies the conventions of the time. The dramatic turn of events in the sixth episode, culminating in Harwin's tragic demise and the subsequent escalation of hostilities, sets the stage for a gripping and tumultuous continuation of the Targaryen saga, intensifying the already fierce and bloody war between the Targaryen factions.

House of the Dragon

Release Date

August 21, 2022

Creator

Ryan Condal

Cast

Paddy Considine , Matt Smith , Emma D'Arcy , Rhys Ifans , Steve Toussaint , Eve Best , Sonoya Mizuno

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