Introduction

The omission of the fact that Aegon the Conqueror and his sisters were half-Velaryon in the popular HBO show, House of the Dragon, sparked much discussion among fans. This strategic decision by Vaemond Velaryon raises intriguing questions about character motivation, narrative focus, and the political complexities within the Targaryen family lineage.

The Legacy of Aegon the Conqueror and Velaryon

For those unfamiliar, Aegon Targaryen I, also known as Aegon the Conqueror, and his sisters, Visenya and Rhaella, were children of Rhaenys Targaryen and her husband, Aegon of House House Velaryon. This Velayrian bloodline adds a complex layer to their legitimacy, especially in relation to the Iron Throne.

In the intricate web of House of the Dragon, Vaemond Velaryon's focus on establishing the purity of his own bloodline is a significant narrative choice. By omitting the Velaryon heritage of Aegon the Conqueror, Vaemond strengthens his claims over the Velaryon-centric territory of Driftmark. Mentioning Aegon’s heritage could potentially compromise his position by highlighting the Targaryens as more legitimate claimants to the throne.

Strategic Motivations

One of the key reasons for Vaemond’s omission is his strategic focus on exclusivity. By emphasizing the Velaryon lineage, Vaemond is able to present a clear, unambiguous argument against Rhaenyra Targaryen’s children. His emphasis on his family’s pure bloodline is precisely what he needs to build a strong, singular narrative against those claiming the Driftmark.

Additionally, within the storyline, Vaemond is depicted as someone deeply invested in maintaining the legacy of his family. By bringing in the complexities of Targaryen lineage, he risks undermining his arguments. Targaryens are often viewed as the primary heirs, making any connection to them less relevant and more complex. Vaemond strategically chooses to focus on his own family’s purity, making his case more straightforward and easier to argue.

Personal Ambition and Incompetence

Some critics argue that Vaemond's decision is not merely a strategic one but also rooted in his personal ambition. He lacks the foresight and subtlety to consider the long-term implications of his actions. Throughout the series, Vaemond demonstrates a fixation on his own name and legacy, rather than the broader Velaryon interests.

In episode 1, Vaemond dismisses his father Corlys, a man who has served as Hand of the King. He is more concerned with the idea of a Velaryon name living on. This myopic focus on his own legacy showcases a self-serving attitude. In a scenario where Corlys is still alive and has two daughters, Vaemond could have argued for one of his nieces to inherit the Driftmark. However, his shortsightedness leads him to champion himself as the heir, which is less about the name and more about personal gain.

Conclusion

The strategic omission of Aegon the Conqueror and his sisters being half-Velaryon is a multifaceted decision. It serves both as a reflection of Vaemond’s strategic acumen in making his arguments stronger and as a testament to his personal ambition. His actions in favor of his own name over broader familial interests highlight a lack of deeper insight into the complex political landscape he navigates. While sympathizing with him for speaking the truth and dying for his convictions, it's important to recognize his personal ambitions over true family loyalty.