House of the Dragon Families Explained

The HBO series "House of the Dragon" delves into the intricate lineage and power struggles of three prominent Westerosi houses: the Targaryens, the Velaryons, and the Hightowers. Understanding these families is crucial to following the narrative of the Dance of the Dragons, a civil war within House Targaryen.

The Targaryens, known for their silver hair and dragon-riding abilities, are the ruling dynasty of Westeros. The series focuses on the reign of King Viserys I Targaryen and the ensuing succession crisis. Viserys's reign is marked by his desire for peace and prosperity, but his personal choices, particularly his remarriage to Alicent Hightower after the death of his first wife, Aemma Arryn, sow the seeds of conflict. His children from his first marriage, Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen, and his children from his second marriage, Prince Aegon II Targaryen, become the central figures in the succession dispute. Rhaenyra is named Viserys's heir, but the patriarchal society of Westeros and the influence of the Hightowers lead many to support Aegon's claim. The Targaryen family's power is intrinsically linked to their dragons, which are depicted as formidable weapons of war and symbols of their authority. The internal divisions within the family, fueled by ambition and differing interpretations of royal decrees, are the primary drivers of the plot.

The Velaryons, a house of Valyrian descent, are the lords of the Tides and rulers of the island of Driftmark. They are the wealthiest house in Westeros, surpassing even the royal family in their vast fortune, primarily derived from their extensive maritime trade and naval power. Lord Corlys Velaryon, also known as the "Sea Snake," is a legendary mariner and explorer, whose voyages have expanded Westerosi influence and trade routes across the known world. The Velaryons are closely allied with the Targaryens through marriage. Princess Rhaenys Targaryen, "The Queen Who Never Was," is married to Lord Corlys Velaryon, and their children, Laena and Laenor Velaryon, play significant roles. Laena Velaryon marries Prince Daemon Targaryen, and Laenor Velaryon marries Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen, further intertwining the destinies of these two powerful families. The Velaryons' formidable fleet and their strategic position on Driftmark make them indispensable allies to the Targaryens, particularly in controlling the seas around Westeros.

The Hightowers, based in the ancient city of Oldtown and lords of the Hightower, are another prominent and influential house. They are keepers of the Citadel, the center of learning and maester training in Westeros, and are known for their piety and political acumen. Ser Otto Hightower, Hand of the King to Viserys I, is a shrewd and ambitious politician who wields considerable influence over the king and the court. His daughter, Lady Alicent Hightower, marries King Viserys I Targaryen, becoming queen and mother to his male heirs, including Prince Aegon II. Alicent's upbringing instills in her a strong sense of duty and a belief in the traditional order of succession, which favors male heirs. This belief puts her at odds with Rhaenyra's claim to the throne. The Hightowers represent a conservative faction within Westerosi society, often clashing with the more progressive or unconventional elements associated with the Targaryens and their dragon-riding culture. Their influence is subtle but pervasive, shaping court politics and public opinion, and they emerge as key players in the escalating conflict over the Iron Throne.