How House of the Dragon Characters Really Looked Like In The Books
Step into the pages of George R.R. Martin’s epic saga to explore the original appearances of the ‘House of the Dragon’ characters as described in the books. This article offers a vivid look at the distinctive features and styles that define the Targaryen dynasty and their allies.
From the silver hair and purple eyes that mark a true Targaryen to the rugged attire of their staunchest supporters, we delve into the details that paint a rich picture of each character. Get ready to see how these iconic figures were first imagined before their adaptation on screen.
Viserys I Targaryen
Appearance: Viserys I Targaryen is described as having the classic Targaryen features, with silver-gold hair and violet eyes. In his youth, he is considered handsome and charismatic. As he ages, he gains weight and becomes more corpulent, reflecting a life of relative ease and indulgence. Personality: Viserys is portrayed as amiable, generous, and well-meaning. He desires peace and stability for the realm and is generally seen as a kind and affable ruler. However, his preference for avoiding conflict and making compromises often leads to indecisiveness and a lack of firm leadership, which contributes to the eventual succession crisis.
Role and Ambition: Viserys’s primary ambition is to maintain the legacy of his grandfather, Jaehaerys I, and to keep the realm united and prosperous. He is well-intentioned but often overlooks the simmering tensions within his own family and court. His decision to name his daughter, Rhaenyra Targaryen, as his heir is a significant moment in his reign, intended to ensure a smooth succession but ultimately leading to civil war. Relationships: Viserys’s relationships are complex and pivotal to the story. His first marriage to Aemma Arryn produces his only surviving child, Rhaenyra, whom he names his heir. His second marriage to Alicent Hightower produces additional heirs, leading to a divided court and rival claims to the throne. His relationships with his wives, children, and key advisors like Otto Hightower significantly impact the political dynamics of his reign.
Ser Vaemond Velaryon
Appearance: While specific details about Ser Vaemond Velaryon’s physical appearance are not extensively described, he, like other members of House Velaryon, is likely to have classic Valyrian features, such as silver-gold hair and violet eyes, reflecting his noble lineage. Personality: Vaemond is portrayed as proud, ambitious, and assertive. He is known for his strong sense of family honor and his willingness to take bold actions to defend what he believes is right. His pride and ambition drive many of his actions, particularly concerning his family’s status and inheritance.
Role and Ambition: Ser Vaemond Velaryon holds a significant role as a member of the Velaryon family, one of the most powerful houses in Westeros. His ambition is primarily centered around the succession of Driftmark, the seat of House Velaryon. He challenges the legitimacy of Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen’s sons, arguing that they are not true Velaryons and should not inherit Driftmark. This leads to a major conflict and, ultimately, his downfall. Relationships: Vaemond’s relationships are marked by his loyalty to his family and his contentious interactions with those he views as threats to Velaryon’s honor. His challenge against Rhaenyra’s sons brings him into direct conflict with her and her supporters, including his own kin who back Rhaenyra’s claim.
Lady Baela Targaryen
Appearance: Baela Targaryen is described as having the classic Valyrian features, including silver-gold hair and violet eyes, which she inherits from both her Targaryen and Velaryon lineage. She is noted for her beauty and striking presence. Personality: Baela is portrayed as bold, adventurous, and fiercely independent. She has a strong-willed and courageous nature, much like her father, Daemon Targaryen. Her personality is marked by a sense of determination and a readiness to take action, traits that serve her well during the tumultuous events of the Dance of the Dragons.
Role and Ambition: Baela’s role becomes significant during the Targaryen civil war. She is a dragonrider, bonded with the dragon Moondancer. Her ambition is closely tied to her family’s cause, and she actively participates in the conflict, showcasing her bravery and combat skills. Her determination to support her family and claim her rightful place in the Targaryen hierarchy is evident throughout the narrative. Relationships: Baela has important familial relationships, particularly with her twin sister, Rhaena Targaryen, and her father, Daemon Targaryen. Her close bond with her sister and her loyalty to her family are central to her character. She is also betrothed to Jacaerys Velaryon, Rhaenyra Targaryen’s son, which further intertwines her fate with the main players in the Dance of the Dragons.
Lady Laena Velaryon
Appearance: Lady Laena Velaryon is described as a beautiful woman with distinctive Valyrian features, including silver-gold hair and violet eyes. Her striking appearance reflects her noble heritage, being the daughter of Lord Corlys Velaryon and Princess Rhaenys Targaryen. Personality: Laena is portrayed as spirited, adventurous, and strong-willed. She inherits her father’s love for the sea and adventure, as well as her mother’s Targaryen fire. Her determination and courage are evident throughout her life, making her a notable figure in the history of House Velaryon and House Targaryen.
Role and Ambition: Laena’s role is significant in the context of her marriage alliances. She is first betrothed to the son of the Sealord of Braavos, but the engagement is broken. Later, she marries Prince Daemon Targaryen, a union that strengthens the ties between House Velaryon and House Targaryen. Her ambition is closely tied to her family’s prominence and the advancement of her children’s status. Relationships: Laena’s relationships are central to her story. She has a close bond with her parents, particularly her father, Corlys Velaryon. Her marriage to Daemon Targaryen is both passionate and politically advantageous. They have two daughters, Baela and Rhaena, who play important roles in the Targaryen civil war known as the Dance of the Dragons.