Few figures in the Targaryen dynasty are as compelling and polarizing as Aemond Targaryen. Known for his unmatched boldness, fierce ambition, and tragic role in the Dance of the Dragons, Aemond’s story is one of power, rivalry, and destiny. His bond with the mighty dragon Vhagar, his infamous lost eye, and his final duel with Daemon Targaryen have cemented his place as one of the most unforgettable characters in both George R.R. Martin’s lore and HBO’s House of the Dragon.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore Aemond’s origins, his rise within the Targaryen family, his role in the civil war that tore Westeros apart, and the lasting legacy he left behind. Whether you’re a casual viewer of House of the Dragon or a lore enthusiast of Fire & Blood, this deep dive into Aemond’s life will give you everything you need to know.
Who Was Aemond Targaryen?
Aemond Targaryen was the second son of King Viserys I Targaryen and Queen Alicent Hightower, placing him firmly within the infamous Targaryen family conflicts that shaped Westeros.
- Birth: 110 AC
- Parents: King Viserys I Targaryen & Alicent Hightower
- Siblings: Aegon II (elder brother), Helaena, and Daeron
- Title: Prince of the Realm, rider of Vhagar
- Key Reputation: Fierce warrior, strategist, and the most dangerous Targaryen during the Dance of the Dragons
Though not the eldest son, Aemond became one of the most feared princes in Targaryen history.
The Incident of Aemond Targaryen’s Eye
One of the most defining moments in Aemond’s early life was losing his eye.
The Story
As a child, Aemond was ridiculed by his siblings and cousins for not yet claiming a dragon. This humiliation fueled his determination, and he eventually bonded with Vhagar, the largest living dragon at the time. However, when he returned, a violent fight broke out between him and his cousins (the children of Princess Rhaenyra). During the scuffle, Lucerys Velaryon slashed out Aemond’s eye with a dagger.
The Impact
- Earned the nickname “Aemond One-Eye”
- Wore a sapphire in his missing eye socket (according to some accounts)
- Became more ruthless and hardened, carrying a deep grudge against Rhaenyra’s children
This event not only shaped Aemond’s character but also escalated tensions between the Greens (Alicent’s side) and the Blacks (Rhaenyra’s side).
Aemond Targaryen and Vhagar – The Legendary Bond
Who Was Vhagar?
- One of the three original dragons from Aegon’s Conquest
- The largest and most powerful dragon alive during Aemond’s time
- Previously ridden by Visenya Targaryen, then Laena Velaryon
Aemond’s Claim
Claiming Vhagar was Aemond’s greatest achievement. By bonding with the massive dragon, he instantly became one of the most formidable forces in Westeros.
Power Dynamics
- Gave the Greens an enormous military advantage
- Allowed Aemond to challenge his enemies with unmatched aerial dominance
- Elevated his reputation as a warrior prince
Aemond Targaryen in the Dance of the Dragons
The Dance of the Dragons was the bloody civil war between Rhaenyra Targaryen (the Blacks) and Aegon II Targaryen (the Greens). Aemond was one of its central figures.
Key Roles
- Acted as commander when Aegon II was incapacitated
- Burned Riverlands towns in attempts to weaken Rhaenyra’s supporters
- Engaged in brutal aerial warfare with his dragon, Vhagar
Rivalry with Daemon Targaryen
The most legendary part of Aemond’s story was his rivalry with Daemon Targaryen, Rhaenyra’s uncle and husband. Both were unmatched dragonriders, and their fates would ultimately intertwine in a deadly climax.
The Death of Aemond Targaryen
Aemond’s end came in one of the most iconic duels in Targaryen history.
The Battle Above the Gods Eye
- Location: Lake near Harrenhal, called the Gods Eye
- Opponent: Daemon Targaryen on Caraxes
- Result: Aemond and Vhagar clashed mid-air with Daemon and Caraxes in a fight that destroyed both dragons
- Aftermath: Aemond’s body was found years later at the bottom of the lake, still chained to Vhagar
Symbolism
This duel represented not just a personal vendetta but the devastating cost of the Dance of the Dragons. It marked the fall of two of the most powerful dragonriders in history.
Aemond Targaryen in House of the Dragon
HBO’s House of the Dragon has brought Aemond’s character to life for a new generation of fans.
- Portrayed as a fierce, cold, and ambitious prince
- His sapphire eye and bond with Vhagar are key visual highlights
- The show emphasizes his rivalry with Lucerys and Daemon
The series adaptation amplifies his dramatic presence, making him one of the standout characters in the Targaryen saga.
Legacy of Aemond Targaryen
Even though Aemond died young, his story remains one of the most impactful in Targaryen history.
- Military Influence: Proved the devastating role dragons played in politics and war
- Cultural Legacy: Remembered as one of the fiercest Targaryens, often compared to Maegor the Cruel
- Tragic Symbol: His life represents the destructive cycle of vengeance within the Targaryen family
Lessons from Aemond Targaryen’s Story
Aemond’s arc offers timeless lessons:
- Ambition without restraint leads to downfall
- Rivalries within families can destroy kingdoms
- Power (dragons) can unite or divide, depending on how it is wielded
Aemond Targaryen Family Tree Context
- Grandfather: King Jaehaerys I Targaryen
- Father: King Viserys I Targaryen
- Mother: Queen Alicent Hightower
- Brother: King Aegon II (his claim rivaled Rhaenyra’s)
- Uncle/Enemy: Daemon Targaryen
Understanding this family web is crucial to seeing why Aemond’s loyalties shaped the war.
Conclusion
Aemond Targaryen’s story is not just about dragons, battles, and family feuds. It is about the dangers of pride, vengeance, and unchecked ambition. His legacy lives on through both the written histories of Westeros and the modern adaptation in House of the Dragon.
For fans and historians alike, Aemond Targaryen remains one of the most fascinating figures in Targaryen history, a prince who flew too close to glory and was consumed by it.
FAQs
Q1: Who was Aemond Targaryen?
Aemond Targaryen was the second son of King Viserys I and Queen Alicent, known for riding Vhagar and playing a major role in the Dance of the Dragons.
Q2: How did Aemond Targaryen lose his eye?
He lost his eye in a childhood fight with Lucerys Velaryon after claiming Vhagar.
Q3: What dragon did Aemond Targaryen ride?
Aemond rode Vhagar, the largest dragon alive during his time.
Q4: How did Aemond Targaryen die?
He died in an aerial battle with Daemon Targaryen above the Gods Eye lake.
Q5: Why is Aemond Targaryen important in House of the Dragon?
He represents the Greens’ military strength and embodies the destructive ambition that fueled the Dance of the Dragons.
Q6: Did Aemond Targaryen become king?
No, his elder brother Aegon II was king. Aemond served as a prince and military commander.
Q7: What is Aemond Targaryen remembered for?
He is remembered for his bond with Vhagar, his lost eye, and his legendary duel with Daemon Targaryen.
