Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen, two of the most prominent characters in HBO’s Game of Thrones, finally consummated their relationship in Season 7, Episode 7, “The Dragon and the Wolf.” This pivotal moment, laden with political and emotional implications, occurred aboard a ship sailing north towards Winterfell.
A Love Scene Forged in Fire and Ice
The meeting of Jon and Daenerys was a slow burn, developing over the course of Season 7. Their alliance, initially forged to combat Cersei Lannister and secure Daenerys’ claim to the Iron Throne, blossomed into a powerful attraction. Their shared conviction in fighting the Night King further solidified their bond. “The Dragon and the Wolf” sees them reaching a crucial understanding, having faced down wights and negotiated fragile truces. The scene itself is portrayed with romantic imagery, but it’s also tinged with dramatic irony, as viewers (and Bran Stark) are already aware of their true lineage – that Jon is Aegon Targaryen, Daenerys’ nephew.
This union wasn’t just a romantic culmination; it was a strategic, albeit ultimately tragic, twist in the unfolding narrative. It set the stage for the final season, where the revelation of Jon’s true identity threw the entire power dynamic of Westeros into chaos. The ramifications of their love were profound, contributing significantly to the downfall of Daenerys and the ultimate restructuring of the Seven Kingdoms.
Decoding the Significance: 12 FAQs About Jon and Dany
Here are some frequently asked questions to further understand the complexities of their relationship and its impact on the Game of Thrones narrative:
1. What led to Jon and Dany’s initial attraction?
Their attraction stemmed from several factors. First, they recognized each other’s strength and leadership qualities. Jon admired Daenerys’ commitment to freeing slaves and fighting injustice, while Daenerys was drawn to Jon’s bravery and unwavering sense of duty. Secondly, they both felt a responsibility to protect Westeros from the looming threat of the White Walkers. This shared purpose fostered a deep respect and eventually, a romantic connection. Their shared Targaryen blood, unknowingly at the time, may also have contributed to a subtle, subconscious connection.
2. Why was the revelation of Jon’s Targaryen heritage so important?
Jon’s true identity as Aegon Targaryen dramatically altered the power structure. He was the legitimate heir to the Iron Throne, having a stronger claim than Daenerys. This revelation challenged her authority and fueled her growing paranoia. It also created a moral dilemma for Jon, who was torn between his loyalty to Daenerys and his responsibility to his true heritage. His claim would have undoubtedly led to war for the throne, and many believed he would be a better ruler.
3. How did the reveal of Jon’s lineage impact Daenerys’ mental state?
The knowledge that Jon had a better claim to the throne than her was a major catalyst in Daenerys’ descent into madness. She already felt isolated and betrayed by many around her. Jon’s lineage further intensified her insecurity and fear of losing the Iron Throne. She started viewing him as a threat rather than a partner, ultimately pushing her towards the drastic actions she took in King’s Landing. This was further exacerbated by the fact he rejected her romantically as well once he knew they were related.
4. Was Jon truly in love with Daenerys, or was it just lust and political convenience?
This is a matter of debate among fans. While political convenience certainly played a role in their initial alliance, there’s strong evidence to suggest that Jon genuinely cared for Daenerys. He admired her strength, respected her ideals, and sympathized with her struggles. However, his commitment to his duty and the people of the North, coupled with the growing unease over her increasingly ruthless decisions, ultimately outweighed his personal feelings. Whether that amounts to true “love” in the purest sense is open to interpretation.
5. How did the relationship between Jon and Dany affect their allies and advisors?
Their relationship caused significant tension among their allies. Varys, Tyrion, and others began to question Daenerys’ judgment, fearing her increasingly impulsive and tyrannical tendencies. They saw Jon as a more level-headed and compassionate leader, and some even plotted to install him on the Iron Throne. This distrust and dissent ultimately contributed to the downfall of Daenerys and the fracturing of her support base.
6. Did Daenerys ever truly trust Jon, especially after learning about his Targaryen heritage?
While Daenerys initially seemed to accept Jon’s Targaryen heritage, the underlying tension remained. She constantly sought his reassurance and demanded his loyalty, which ultimately proved to be a reflection of her own insecurity. Her actions in King’s Landing, despite Jon’s pleas for restraint, showed a deep-seated distrust and a belief that she alone knew what was best for Westeros. Therefore, she never truly trusted him, especially as his popularity grew.
7. Why did Jon ultimately kill Daenerys?
Jon’s decision to kill Daenerys was the result of a culmination of factors. He witnessed the devastating consequences of her actions in King’s Landing, realizing that she had become a tyrant who posed a threat to the entire realm. He also understood that she would never willingly relinquish power, and the cycle of violence and oppression would continue under her rule. Therefore, he felt compelled to sacrifice his personal feelings and commit an act that he believed was necessary for the greater good of Westeros, fulfilling his oath to protect his people.
8. What were the political implications of their relationship, considering their respective claims to the Iron Throne?
The union of Jon and Daenerys had the potential to unite the two most powerful houses in Westeros, creating an unstoppable force. However, it also introduced a complicated power dynamic. Jon’s legitimate claim to the Iron Throne challenged Daenerys’ ambition and threatened her claim. The political fallout was immense, contributing to the power struggles and betrayals that ultimately led to the downfall of both characters and the collapse of the traditional monarchy.
9. How did the prophecy surrounding “The Prince That Was Promised” (Azor Ahai) relate to Jon and Daenerys’ relationship?
The prophecy of Azor Ahai, the legendary hero destined to defeat the darkness, fueled speculation about Jon and Daenerys’ roles in the Great War. Some believed that Jon was Azor Ahai, reborn to wield Lightbringer (a metaphor for a powerful weapon or ability) and defeat the Night King. Others believed Daenerys, with her dragons, was the key to defeating the White Walkers. Ultimately, the show subverted these expectations, with Arya Stark delivering the final blow to the Night King. However, the prophecy still played a role in shaping the narrative and influencing characters’ perceptions of Jon and Daenerys’ destinies.
10. Did the incestuous nature of their relationship contribute to Daenerys’ downfall?
While the incestuous relationship itself wasn’t explicitly cited as a direct cause of Daenerys’ downfall, it certainly added a layer of complexity and taboo to their relationship. The Targaryens’ history of incestuous marriages, often attributed to maintaining the purity of their bloodline, was viewed with suspicion and concern by many in Westeros. This historical context may have contributed to the unease and distrust surrounding Daenerys, especially as her mental state deteriorated. However, her madness was primarily due to the loss of those she loved, and the constant betrayals she endured.
11. Could Jon and Dany have had a lasting, positive relationship if circumstances had been different?
It’s a hypothetical question with no definitive answer. Had the revelation of Jon’s true identity been handled differently, and had Daenerys not experienced the trauma and betrayals that she did, it’s possible they could have forged a lasting and positive relationship. However, the circumstances surrounding their union were fraught with political intrigue, power struggles, and ultimately, tragedy. Given the inherent challenges and their diverging paths, a lasting, positive relationship was unlikely.
12. What is the lasting legacy of Jon and Daenerys’ relationship on the world of Game of Thrones?
The tragic love story of Jon and Daenerys serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of power, ambition, and unchecked emotions. Their relationship highlighted the destructive potential of political manipulation, the burden of leadership, and the devastating consequences of choosing power over love. It also ultimately paved the way for a new political order in Westeros, where hereditary rule was replaced by a more democratic system. The legacy of Jon and Daenerys is one of sacrifice, heartbreak, and the enduring struggle for justice and peace in a world consumed by power.