A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms Finally Confirms the Definitive Targaryen

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House Targaryen is a fan favorite in the world of A Song of Ice and Fire, and the book A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms revealed the story of Baelor Targaryen, a key figure in the family’s past. Baelor, nicknamed “Breakspear,” is a fascinating character who makes you wonder how things might have turned out differently in Westeros. He’s considered one of the most honorable and admired Targaryens ever to live.

Baelor plays a key role not just in the story of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, but also in the present circumstances of the characters and the future of Westeros. While he served as Hand of the King, Westeros enjoyed a period of peace. His death ultimately set the Targaryen family on the course that led to the reign of the Mad King Aerys II. Baelor represents the best potential of House Targaryen – what they could have become.

Baelor Breakspear was the Future of House Targaryen

Baelor was the son of Daeron II Targaryen and Myriah Martell. His birth was considered controversial because he symbolized a united kingdom, with a father from the ruling Targaryen family and a mother from Dorne. As he grew older, many people distrusted Baelor, noticing he seemed to inherit more physical characteristics from his Dornish mother – like dark hair and eyes – than from his Targaryen father.

As readers of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms know, Baelor gained the nickname “Breakspear” by winning a joust against Daemon Blackfyre at a tournament in King’s Landing, held during a wedding. This event was a key moment leading up to the First Blackfyre Rebellion. Daemon embodied everything the rebels desired in a leader – he had the classic Targaryen look and was a powerful warrior, representing the Blackfyre claim.

Baelor Targaryen’s appearance strongly resembled that of the Dornish people, which was a key factor in sparking the First Blackfyre Rebellion. He represented the type of claimant the rebels preferred. Alongside his brother, Maekar, Baelor played a crucial role in suppressing the rebellion at the Battle of the Redgrass Field, and their bravery was commemorated in a famous song called ‘The Hammer and the Anvil’.

I’ve been following the story of Baelor closely, and by the time things really heat up in A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, he’s become the King’s Hand and is next in line to be king himself. What I really admire is that despite his status, he’s genuinely respectful to Ser Duncan the Tall. It’s fascinating to hear him remember jousting against Ser Arlan of Pennytree – some people act like he never even existed! But it was when Baelor stepped in to help others that you really saw what kind of leader he truly was.

The death of Baelor during the Trial of Seven had a lasting impact on both Dunk and Egg, and significantly altered the course of Westeros’ history. Had he survived, the throne wouldn’t have passed to his brother, ultimately changing the events that led to Robert’s Rebellion and everything that followed in Game of Thrones. Baelor would forever be remembered as the king who could have been.

Baelor’s Demise was the Death Knell for the Targaryen Legacy

The death of Baelor Targaryen had enormous consequences, ultimately contributing to the downfall of his house. His loss meant the realm lost a promising and virtuous leader, creating instability. Baelor’s willingness to sacrifice himself saved Ser Duncan the Tall, who later died protecting the infant Rhaegar Targaryen during the disastrous events at Summerhall.

Baelor Breakspear’s actions ultimately brought an end to Targaryen rule in Westeros. When he intervened to help Dunk at the tournament in Ashford Meadow, he deeply influenced young Egg, who would then lead with compassion, inspired by Baelor’s example. Throughout A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, Baelor proves to be a pivotal figure, with his choices impacting history for generations to come.

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2026-02-12 03:36