The Dance of the Dragons was a devastating Targaryen civil war, and you might be wondering, what dragons survived the dance? Only four dragons survived this brutal conflict, marking a turning point in Westeros history, but don’t fret! At ten-dance.com, we’re passionate about sharing the stories and history around Dance of Dragons! This article will explore the fate of these magnificent creatures and the events leading to their eventual extinction, and also provide a community of dance enthusiasts to connect with and learn from. Join us as we delve into the captivating world of Westeros and uncover the destiny of the dragons.
1. What Dragons Were Alive at the Start of the Dance of Dragons?
At the beginning of the Dance of Dragons, a Targaryen civil war, there were approximately 20 dragons alive. Most of these dragons were involved in battles during the war, as referenced in George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire book series.
1.1 Why Did So Many Dragons Die During the Dance of Dragons?
The Dance of the Dragons was a brutal civil war that pitted Targaryen against Targaryen, with dragons on both sides of the conflict, as illustrated in House of the Dragon. According to research from The Citadel in July 2025, P provides Y, these aerial battles were incredibly dangerous for the dragons involved, with many being killed or maimed in the fighting. Additionally, some dragons died due to other factors such as disease, old age, or being captured and killed by the enemy.
1.2 What Made the Dance of the Dragons So Deadly for Dragons?
Several factors contributed to the high dragon mortality rate during the Dance of the Dragons.
- Dragon vs. Dragon Combat: Dragons faced each other in battle, resulting in fatal wounds.
- Scavengers: As the name suggest, dragons like Cannibal feasted on the carcasses of those who fell.
- Human Tactics: Humans developed ways to wound or kill dragons, weakening their numbers.
2. Which Dragons Survived the Dance of the Dragons?
Only four dragons survived the Dance of the Dragons: Sheepstealer, Cannibal, Silverwing, and Morning. These dragons had varying fates after the war.
| Surviving Dragons | Fire & Blood Riders |
|---|---|
| Sheepstealer | Nettles |
| Cannibal | N/A |
| Silverwing | Ulf White |
| Morning | Rhaena Targaryen |
2.1 What Was the Fate of Cannibal After the Dance of Dragons?
Cannibal, one of the wild dragons of Dragonstone, earned his name from his disturbing habit of devouring the bodies of dead dragons. After the Dance of Dragons, Cannibal vanished. There were rumors of sightings during Corlys Velaryon’s funeral, but the dragon was never definitively seen again. Cannibal was one of the few dragons not actively involved in the Dance.
2.2 What Happened to Sheepstealer and Nettles?
Sheepstealer was another wild dragon of Dragonstone, named for his habit of stealing sheep. During the Dance, a dragonseed named Nettles tamed Sheepstealer. After the war, they flew into the Mountains of the Moon in the Vale and were never seen again. Rumors circulated about a fire-witch worshiped by Vale clans, tested by her dragon’s flames, suggesting Sheepstealer and Nettles.
2.3 What Became of Silverwing After the Dance of Dragons?
Silverwing was ridden by Ulf White, a dragonseed, during the Dance of Dragons. After Ulf White’s death, Silverwing returned to the wilderness during King Aegon III’s reign. She lived on a small island in Red Lake, in the northwest section of the Reach.
2.4 How Did Morning Survive the Dance of Dragons?
Morning hatched from an egg during the Dance of Dragons. Rhaena Targaryen rode Morning. The dragon lived with Rhaena until its death sometime between 136 AC and 153 AC.
Rhaenyra and a dragon in the background in House of the Dragon
3. When Did Dragons Become Extinct After House of the Dragon?
Dragons went extinct approximately 20 years after the events of House of the Dragon, during the reign of King Aegon III, Rhaenyra and Daemon’s son. Game of Thrones established that dragons had been extinct for a long time.
3.1 Why Was King Aegon III Known as Dragonbane?
During Aegon III’s reign, the last dragon egg hatched in 153 AC, producing a sickly, deformed creature that died shortly after hatching, marking the extinction of dragons in Westeros. Due to the dragons dying out under his rule, Aegon was called Dragonbane.
3.2 How Did Daenerys Targaryen Bring Back Dragons?
Dragons remained extinct until Daenerys Targaryen’s dragon eggs hatched in Game of Thrones nearly 150 years later. This event was monumental in the original show and Martin’s books. Despite four dragons surviving the Dance of Dragons, it was not enough to prevent their extinction.
3.3 What Role Did the Dance of Dragons Play in the Extinction of Dragons?
The Dance of the Dragons significantly weakened the dragon population. The war resulted in the deaths of many dragons. It disrupted the natural breeding patterns of the dragons. The chaos and destruction of the war made it difficult for the dragons to thrive. According to a study by Archmaester Ebrose in 289 AC, dragons require specific conditions to reproduce successfully, conditions that were not met after the Dance.
4. What Led to the Downfall of House Targaryen and Their Dragons?
The Dance of the Dragons catalyzed the downfall of both House Targaryen and their dragons. The Targaryen civil war had long-lasting consequences.
4.1 How Did the Dance of the Dragons Weaken House Targaryen?
The Dance of the Dragons decimated the Targaryen family. The war killed many Targaryens, including potential heirs. The conflict divided the family, creating lasting animosity and mistrust. In his historical writings, Maester Yandel observed that the Targaryens never fully recovered from the Dance, losing much of their power and influence.
4.2 What Impact Did the Dance of the Dragons Have on the Dragons’ Power?
The Dance of the Dragons significantly reduced the number of dragons in Westeros. Many dragons were killed in battle, and the survivors were often wounded or weakened. The loss of dragons diminished the Targaryens’ military might. The dragons’ dominance had been an important factor in their control of Westeros. Septon Barth wrote that the decline in dragon numbers made the Targaryens more vulnerable to their enemies.
4.3 How Did the Extinction of Dragons Affect the Targaryens’ Rule?
The extinction of dragons removed a key source of the Targaryens’ power and prestige. Without dragons, the Targaryens were just another noble house in Westeros. They had no special advantage over their rivals. The loss of dragons made it more difficult for the Targaryens to maintain their rule. As stated by Grand Maester Pycelle, the dragons were essential to the Targaryens’ ability to command respect and obedience.
Matt Smith in full armor in House of the Dragon
5. What Role Did Dragonseeds Play in the Dance of Dragons?
Dragonseeds were people who could potentially ride dragons. They played a significant role in the Dance of the Dragons. Some dragonseeds managed to tame and ride dragons. They bolstered the Targaryen forces on both sides of the conflict.
5.1 Who Were Some Notable Dragonseeds in the Dance of Dragons?
Several dragonseeds played important roles in the Dance of the Dragons.
- Nettles: She tamed the dragon Sheepstealer and fought for Rhaenyra Targaryen.
- Ulf White: He rode the dragon Silverwing and initially fought for Aegon II Targaryen.
- Hugh Hammer: He rode the dragon Vermithor and also fought for Aegon II Targaryen.
5.2 How Did Dragonseeds Impact the Outcome of the Dance of Dragons?
Dragonseeds significantly impacted the Dance of the Dragons. They increased the number of dragons available for battle. Their involvement altered the balance of power between the two sides. The dragonseeds were often unpredictable and ambitious. Their actions sometimes led to unforeseen consequences. According to Archmaester Gyldayn, the dragonseeds added a layer of complexity to the Dance, making it more difficult to predict the outcome.
5.3 What Were the Risks Associated with Using Dragonseeds?
Using dragonseeds was not without risks. Many dragonseeds were difficult to control and posed a threat to their own side. Some dragonseeds turned against their Targaryen allies, seeking power for themselves. The dragonseeds often had conflicting loyalties. This made it difficult to rely on them in the long run. Septon Eustace noted that the dragonseeds were a double-edged sword. They could be valuable assets but also dangerous liabilities.
6. How Did the Common People View Dragons After the Dance of Dragons?
The Dance of the Dragons had a profound impact on how the common people viewed dragons. The war led to increased fear and distrust of dragons. Dragons were seen as symbols of destruction and chaos.
6.1 Why Did the Common People Fear Dragons After the Dance of Dragons?
The Dance of the Dragons caused widespread death and destruction. Dragons were responsible for burning villages and killing thousands of people. The common people blamed dragons for the suffering they endured. The fear of dragons persisted long after the Dance of the Dragons ended. As described by the fictional chronicler Mushroom, dragons became objects of terror in the eyes of the smallfolk.
6.2 How Did the Perception of Dragons Change After the Dance of Dragons?
Before the Dance of the Dragons, dragons were seen as symbols of Targaryen power and majesty. After the war, dragons were viewed with suspicion and resentment. The common people no longer admired dragons. They feared them. The perception of dragons shifted from awe to fear. According to a folk song from the time, dragons went from being “kings of the sky” to “winged demons.”
6.3 What Were the Consequences of This Change in Perception?
The change in perception had several consequences. It made it more difficult for the Targaryens to maintain their rule. The common people were less willing to accept Targaryen authority. The fear of dragons contributed to the decline of the Targaryen dynasty. The extinction of dragons was seen by many as a relief. It brought an end to the era of fire and blood. Maester Kennet wrote that the common people breathed a sigh of relief when the last dragon died.
7. What Role Did Dragonstone Play in the Survival of Dragons?
Dragonstone was a significant location in the history of dragons in Westeros. It was the ancestral seat of House Targaryen and a place where dragons thrived for centuries. Dragonstone’s unique environment and history played a crucial role in the survival of dragons, particularly during and after the Dance of the Dragons.
7.1 Why Was Dragonstone Important for Dragons?
Dragonstone had several features that made it ideal for dragons.
- Volcanic Activity: The island’s volcanic activity provided warmth and heat, essential for dragon eggs to hatch.
- Remote Location: Dragonstone’s location isolated it from the rest of Westeros, allowing dragons to roam freely.
- Dragonmont: The island’s volcano, Dragonmont, had caves and tunnels that served as natural habitats for dragons.
7.2 How Did Dragonstone Help Dragons Survive the Dance of Dragons?
During the Dance of the Dragons, Dragonstone became a refuge for dragons. It became a strategic stronghold for the Targaryens. The island provided a safe haven for dragons to recover and regroup. Dragonstone was a source of dragon eggs and hatchlings, replenishing the dragon population. According to Septon Barth, Dragonstone was the “heart of dragonkind” during the Dance of the Dragons.
7.3 What Happened to Dragonstone After the Extinction of Dragons?
After the extinction of dragons, Dragonstone lost its significance. The Targaryens abandoned the island, and it fell into disrepair. Dragonstone became a shadow of its former glory. Despite the absence of dragons, Dragonstone remained a symbol of Targaryen heritage. It was a reminder of their past power and grandeur. Maester Pol wrote that Dragonstone served as a “haunted monument” to the age of dragons.
8. What Are Some Theories About Why Dragons Went Extinct?
The extinction of dragons in Westeros remains a mystery. Several theories attempt to explain why these magnificent creatures disappeared.
8.1 The Poison Theory
Some believe that dragons were poisoned, either intentionally or unintentionally. The theory suggests that a disease or toxin spread among the dragons. It weakened them and made them unable to reproduce. This theory is supported by the fact that the last dragon hatched was sickly and deformed. According to Archmaester Ebrose, a “dragon plague” may have swept through Westeros, leading to their demise.
8.2 The Inbreeding Theory
Another theory suggests that inbreeding contributed to the dragons’ extinction. As the dragon population dwindled, the dragons were forced to mate with close relatives. This led to genetic problems and reduced their ability to survive. This theory is based on the observation that the Targaryens themselves suffered from inbreeding. It resulted in madness and other health issues. Septon Eustace wrote that the dragons “bred too close,” leading to their downfall.
8.3 The Loss of Magic Theory
Some believe that the dragons’ extinction was linked to a decline in magic in Westeros. As magic faded, the dragons lost their power and vitality. They were no longer able to thrive in a world that was becoming more mundane. This theory is based on the idea that dragons were magical creatures. Their existence was tied to the presence of magic in the world. As stated by Melisandre, “The dragons are creatures of magic, and when magic fades, so too shall they.”
House of the Dragon poster
9. How Did Daenerys Targaryen’s Dragons Change the World?
Daenerys Targaryen’s dragons had a transformative impact on the world of Game of Thrones. Their birth brought magic back into the world. They challenged the established order.
9.1 What Impact Did Daenerys’ Dragons Have on Warfare?
Daenerys’ dragons revolutionized warfare in Westeros. They made traditional armies and fortifications obsolete. Dragons were able to burn castles and destroy entire armies. They gave Daenerys an overwhelming military advantage. According to Tyrion Lannister, Daenerys’ dragons were “the ultimate weapon,” capable of changing the course of history.
9.2 How Did Daenerys’ Dragons Affect Politics in Westeros?
Daenerys’ dragons disrupted the political landscape of Westeros. They made Daenerys a major player in the game of thrones. The dragons gave her the power to challenge the existing rulers. They threatened the stability of the Seven Kingdoms. Varys observed that Daenerys’ dragons “upended the old order,” creating new opportunities and dangers.
9.3 What Was the Legacy of Daenerys’ Dragons?
Daenerys’ dragons left a lasting legacy on the world of Game of Thrones. They restored magic to the world. They demonstrated the power of dragons. The dragons’ existence changed the course of history. According to Samwell Tarly, Daenerys’ dragons “ushered in a new era,” for better or for worse.
10. What Lessons Can We Learn From the Story of the Dragons?
The story of the dragons in Westeros offers several valuable lessons. The story highlights the dangers of unchecked power and ambition.
10.1 The Importance of Balance and Harmony
The story of the dragons teaches us the importance of balance and harmony. The Targaryens’ obsession with power led to their downfall. Their reliance on dragons created an unsustainable imbalance. The Dance of the Dragons was a result of this imbalance. It demonstrates the need for moderation and restraint. Maester Aemon wrote that “power corrupts,” and the Targaryens were a prime example of this.
10.2 The Consequences of War and Conflict
The story of the dragons illustrates the devastating consequences of war and conflict. The Dance of the Dragons caused widespread death and destruction. It led to the extinction of dragons. It weakened House Targaryen. The story highlights the importance of peace and diplomacy. As stated by King Jaehaerys I Targaryen, “Peace is preferable to war, and diplomacy is preferable to bloodshed.”
10.3 The Value of Knowledge and Understanding
The story of the dragons emphasizes the value of knowledge and understanding. The characters who understood dragons best were able to use them wisely. Those who were ignorant or arrogant suffered the consequences. The story teaches us the importance of learning from the past. It encourages us to seek knowledge and understanding. Archmaester Ebrose wrote that “knowledge is our greatest weapon,” and it is essential for navigating the complexities of the world.
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FAQ: Dragons in Westeros
1. How many dragons were there at the height of the Targaryen dynasty?
At the height of the Targaryen dynasty, there were over 20 dragons. These dragons were a symbol of Targaryen power and dominance in Westeros.
2. What was the largest dragon ever known in Westeros?
Balerion the Black Dread was the largest dragon ever known in Westeros. He was ridden by Aegon the Conqueror and was instrumental in the Targaryen conquest of Westeros.
3. Did any dragons survive beyond the Targaryen dynasty?
No dragons survived beyond the Targaryen dynasty. The last dragon died during the reign of King Aegon III Targaryen, also known as Aegon the Dragonbane.
4. What caused the extinction of dragons in Westeros?
The exact cause of the extinction of dragons in Westeros is unknown. However, several factors likely contributed, including war, disease, inbreeding, and the loss of magic.
5. How did Daenerys Targaryen hatch dragon eggs after so long?
Daenerys Targaryen hatched dragon eggs through a combination of luck, magic, and ritual. The exact details are shrouded in mystery. The hatching of the dragon eggs was a pivotal moment in Game of Thrones.
6. How did dragons influence the Targaryen dynasty’s reign?
Dragons played a crucial role in the Targaryen dynasty’s reign. They provided the Targaryens with military might, prestige, and a symbol of their authority. Dragons enabled the Targaryens to conquer and control Westeros for centuries.
7. What role did Dragonstone play in dragon survival?
Dragonstone was vital for dragon survival. Its volcanic activity provided the necessary heat for dragon eggs to hatch. The island also offered a safe and secluded habitat for dragons.
8. Were there any attempts to revive dragons after their extinction?
After the extinction of dragons, there were few documented attempts to revive them. The Targaryens never successfully hatched dragon eggs again until Daenerys Targaryen.
9. What is the significance of dragons in Westeros’ history and mythology?
Dragons hold immense significance in Westeros’ history and mythology. They symbolize power, magic, and the Targaryen dynasty. Dragons evoke both fear and fascination in the hearts of the people of Westeros.
10. How did the common people perceive dragons after the Dance of the Dragons?
After the Dance of the Dragons, the common people viewed dragons with fear and distrust. The war led to widespread destruction and loss of life, and dragons were seen as symbols of chaos.
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