Only one dragon, Vhagar, was claimed in episode 7 of House of the Dragon. This pivotal moment reshapes the power dynamics of the realm, setting the stage for the escalating conflict known as the Dance of the Dragons.
The Claiming of Vhagar: A Turning Point
Episode 7, titled “Driftmark,” culminates in a dramatic sequence that sees Aemond Targaryen successfully claim the largest and oldest dragon in existence, Vhagar. This act, executed without the permission or knowledge of his family, solidifies Aemond’s personal power and represents a significant shift in the looming civil war. Vhagar’s sheer size and battle experience make her an invaluable asset, immediately tilting the scales in favor of the Greens.
The claiming of Vhagar is not simply about acquiring a weapon. It’s a symbolic act, representing ambition, dominance, and the willingness to defy established protocols. Aemond’s character arc is defined by this moment, transitioning him from a disregarded younger brother to a formidable player in the game of thrones. The episode masterfully portrays the tension and intrigue surrounding the claim, leaving viewers with a palpable sense of anticipation and dread for what is to come. The emotional toll on Laena Velaryon’s daughters is evident, as they are left without their mother’s beloved dragon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Dragon Claiming
Below are answers to frequently asked questions regarding dragon claiming, providing a deeper understanding of the process and its significance within the world of Westeros.
1. What Does it Mean to “Claim” a Dragon?
To “claim” a dragon is to form a bond with it, becoming its rider. This bond is often described as a deep, almost mystical connection that allows the rider to control and command the dragon. Only those with Targaryen blood, or in rare cases, individuals with strong Dragonrider ancestry like the Velaryons, are typically capable of claiming a dragon. The process is not fully understood, but it often involves approaching the dragon with respect, courage, and a certain level of empathy.
2. Is Claiming a Dragon Easy?
No. Claiming a dragon is a difficult and dangerous endeavor. Many have tried and failed, sometimes with fatal consequences. Dragons are powerful, intelligent creatures with their own personalities and preferences. They choose their riders, not the other way around. A potential rider must demonstrate a certain quality – bravery, ambition, or perhaps a shared temperament – to be deemed worthy.
3. Can Anyone Claim a Dragon?
As mentioned above, claiming a dragon is generally limited to individuals with Targaryen or Valyrian ancestry, particularly those with a strong connection to dragon blood. This is not an absolute rule; history records a few instances of others forming bonds with dragons, suggesting that circumstance and character can sometimes override bloodlines. However, such cases are extremely rare.
4. What Happens if a Dragon’s Rider Dies?
The fate of a dragon after its rider’s death varies. Some dragons, particularly younger ones, may eventually form a new bond with another rider. However, older dragons often never bond again after losing their first rider, grieving and becoming increasingly unpredictable. Some dragons have even died of grief following the loss of their rider.
5. Can a Dragon Have Multiple Riders?
No. Dragons typically bond with only one rider during their lifetime. While there may be instances of riders sharing control of a dragon for short periods, the primary bond remains with the initial claimant. The connection between dragon and rider is intensely personal and exclusive. It is inconceivable for a dragon to form true bonds with multiple people.
6. How Does Dragon Claiming Affect the Dynamics of Power?
Dragon claiming significantly impacts the dynamics of power in Westeros. Dragons are the ultimate weapons, capable of decimating armies and conquering entire kingdoms. Controlling dragons grants immense military and political power, making dragonriders key players in any conflict. The Dance of the Dragons itself is fueled by the struggle for control over the dragons and the power they represent.
7. What is the Significance of Vhagar Being Claimed?
The claiming of Vhagar is particularly significant because of her size, age, and battle experience. Vhagar is a living legend, having participated in Aegon’s Conquest. Her presence on the battlefield is a game-changer. Her claiming immediately strengthens the Green faction and instills fear in their enemies. Vhagar’s experience sets her apart from other, younger dragons.
8. Was Aemond’s Claiming of Vhagar Justified?
Whether Aemond’s claiming of Vhagar was justified is a matter of perspective. Legally, there were no formal rules preventing him from attempting to claim the dragon. However, morally, it was a questionable act, as Vhagar had been Laena Velaryon’s dragon and was considered by many to belong, at least in spirit, to her daughters, Baela and Rhaena. The claiming highlights Aemond’s ambition and his disregard for the feelings of others.
9. How Does Dragon Claiming Differ From Taming?
While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, there is a subtle difference between “claiming” and “taming” a dragon. “Claiming” implies a deep, spiritual bond and ownership, whereas “taming” suggests a more superficial control. While dragons can be trained to obey commands, true control comes from the bond forged through claiming.
10. What Risks Are Involved in Claiming a Dragon?
The risks involved in claiming a dragon are significant. Dragons are dangerous creatures, and if a potential rider is deemed unworthy or disrespectful, the dragon may react violently. Death is a real possibility for anyone attempting to claim a dragon. Even if successful, the process can be physically and emotionally draining, leaving the rider scarred or traumatized.
11. How Does Dragon Claiming Contribute to the Conflict in House of the Dragon?
Dragon claiming is central to the conflict in House of the Dragon. The control and deployment of dragons are key strategic considerations for both the Greens and the Blacks. The number and strength of the dragons each side possesses directly impacts their ability to wage war and claim the Iron Throne. Every dragon claimed or lost shifts the balance of power and intensifies the conflict. The limited number of dragons available creates high-stakes tension around their control.
12. Are there any other dragons waiting to be claimed after episode 7?
Yes, there are still unclaimed dragons, although their numbers are dwindling. Some remain in the Dragonpit of King’s Landing, while others might reside on Dragonstone or other undisclosed locations. These unclaimed dragons represent a valuable resource for both factions in the upcoming Dance of the Dragons. The race to claim these dragons will likely be a major plot point in future episodes, with unclaimed dragons representing untapped potential.
The Future of Dragonriders and Their Claims
The claiming of Vhagar in episode 7 represents a pivotal moment in House of the Dragon. As the Dance of the Dragons escalates, the claiming and deployment of dragons will become increasingly crucial to the outcome of the conflict. The future of Westeros hangs in the balance, dependent on the strength and skill of the dragonriders and the bonds they forge with their magnificent beasts. The events surrounding dragon claims, both successful and failed, will undoubtedly shape the destinies of many key characters in the seasons to come. The legacy of the dragonriders is intertwined with the fate of the Targaryen dynasty.