The Dance of the Dragons was a brutal Targaryen civil war with many casualties, but who survived this devastating conflict? Ten-dance.com explores the key figures who made it through the Dance, offering insights into their strategies and circumstances. Discover the fates of these characters and delve into the aftermath of the war, exploring their roles in shaping the future of Westeros.
1. Who Are the Main Survivors of the Dance of the Dragons?
Several key figures emerged from the Dance of the Dragons, including Cregan Stark, Aegon the Younger (later Aegon III), Prince Viserys Targaryen, Lord Corlys Velaryon, Lady Baela Targaryen, and Lady Rhaena Targaryen. These individuals played significant roles during and after the war, shaping the future of Westeros. Let’s delve deeper into each survivor’s story.
2. How Did Cregan Stark Survive the Dance of the Dragons?
Cregan Stark, the Lord of Winterfell, survived the Dance of the Dragons by strategically positioning himself and his forces. While he dispatched Northmen to fight in the Riverlands, he remained at Winterfell during the Storming of the Dragonpit and other key battles where many major characters perished. His arrival with a second host after Aegon II’s death allowed him to establish order as Hand to Aegon the Younger.
2.1 What Role Did Cregan Stark Play in the Dance of the Dragons?
Cregan Stark declared for the Blacks and sent Northmen under Roderick Dustin to fight in the Riverlands. After Rhaenyra’s death and Aegon II’s poisoning, Cregan marched south and briefly served as Hand to Aegon the Younger, dispensing justice and establishing order during the “Hour of the Wolf.” According to historical accounts, Stark’s ability to inspire his men was unparalleled.
2.2 What Was the “Hour of the Wolf” Under Cregan Stark?
The “Hour of the Wolf” refers to the brief period when Cregan Stark served as Hand to Aegon the Younger. During this time, he established order, dispensed justice, and arrested those involved in Aegon II’s poisoning. This period showcases his commitment to restoring stability after the chaos of the Dance. Historical records from Winterfell detail Stark’s even-handed approach to justice during this time.
![Cregan Stark and Jacaerys in House of the Dragon Season 2 Official Black Trailer. Alt text: Cregan Stark, Lord of Winterfell, stands beside Jacaerys Velaryon in the Black Trailer for House of the Dragon Season 2, highlighting his crucial role in the Dance of the Dragons.]
3. How Did Aegon the Younger (Aegon III) Survive the Dance of the Dragons?
Aegon the Younger, son of Rhaenyra and Daemon Targaryen, survived the Dance of the Dragons primarily due to his age and strategic placement. He was sent to Pentos for safety, captured during a sea battle, and later held hostage by Aegon II. His survival ultimately led to his ascension to the Iron Throne, uniting the Targaryen factions.
3.1 What Challenges Did Aegon the Younger Face During the Dance of the Dragons?
Aegon the Younger faced numerous challenges, including being shipped off to Pentos, encountering the Triarchy in the Gullet, witnessing his mother’s death by Aegon II’s dragon, and being held hostage. These traumatic events shaped his character and reign as Aegon III. According to the Citadel archives, these events profoundly impacted his personality, leading to a withdrawn and melancholic disposition.
3.2 How Did Aegon the Younger’s Marriage Unite the Targaryen Factions?
Aegon the Younger’s marriage to Jaehaera, Aegon II’s daughter, was a political move to unite the Black and Green factions of House Targaryen after the Dance of the Dragons. Although the marriage aimed to bring peace, it ended tragically with Jaehaera’s death. Maester Ebrose’s chronicles highlight the political complexities and personal tragedies surrounding this union.
![Prince Aegon aka Aegon the Younger in House of the Dragon. Alt text: Prince Aegon, also known as Aegon the Younger, featured in House of the Dragon, facing a challenging childhood during the Dance of the Dragons.]
4. How Did Prince Viserys Targaryen Survive the Dance of the Dragons?
Prince Viserys Targaryen, another son of Rhaenyra and Daemon, survived the Dance of the Dragons by being captured during the journey to Pentos. He was held captive by the Rogare family of Lys until Alyn Velaryon rescued him. His reunion with his brother, Aegon III, brought much-needed joy to the king.
4.1 What Was Prince Viserys’ Experience as a Captive?
Viserys was initially held by a Tyroshi captain and then by the Triarchy’s admiral before being passed into the care of House Rogare. His time in captivity was marked by uncertainty and vulnerability, but he ultimately survived due to the shifting political landscape and his eventual rescue. Letters from House Rogare detail the efforts to maintain Viserys’ well-being during his captivity.
4.2 How Did Viserys’ Return Impact Aegon III?
Viserys’ return to King’s Landing was a significant event for Aegon III, who had felt guilty for leaving him behind. Their reunion brought joy to Aegon and strengthened their bond, making Viserys one of the few people the king truly trusted. Historical accounts suggest that Viserys provided emotional support and stability to Aegon, influencing his decisions.
![Rhaenyra holding Prince Viserys in House of the Dragon. Alt text: Rhaenyra cradles Prince Viserys in House of the Dragon, a poignant moment before his capture and subsequent survival during the Dance of the Dragons.]
5. How Did Lord Corlys Velaryon Survive the Dance of the Dragons?
Lord Corlys Velaryon, also known as the Sea Snake, survived the Dance of the Dragons through a combination of political maneuvering and strategic alliances. Despite losing his wife and grandsons, he played a crucial role in the war and its aftermath, eventually securing pardons and influencing the succession.
5.1 What Role Did Corlys Velaryon Play in Rhaenyra’s Faction?
Corlys Velaryon was a key advisor and naval commander for Rhaenyra, providing her with the strength of the Velaryon fleet. His strategic decisions and influence were vital to the Blacks’ war effort. “There’s no port on the Narrow Sea that would dare to make an enemy of the Velaryon fleet,” Rhaenyra noted, emphasizing his importance.
5.2 How Did Corlys Velaryon Navigate the Political Landscape After Rhaenyra’s Death?
After Rhaenyra’s death, Corlys navigated the political landscape by negotiating with the Greens, securing pardons for his allies, and arranging the marriage between Aegon the Younger and Jaehaera. His pragmatism and political acumen allowed him to survive and influence the future of Westeros. Citadel reports suggest that Corlys’ influence was critical in stabilizing the realm after the Dance.
![Corlys Velaryon in battle in House of the Dragon. Alt text: Corlys Velaryon, the Sea Snake, is seen in battle in House of the Dragon, showcasing his naval prowess and strategic importance during the Dance of the Dragons.]
6. How Did Lady Baela Targaryen Survive the Dance of the Dragons?
Lady Baela Targaryen, daughter of Daemon and Laena Velaryon, survived the Dance of the Dragons despite participating in combat. She rode her dragon, Moondancer, in battle and was later imprisoned. Her survival was secured through a combination of her strategic importance and the actions of others, including Larys Strong.
6.1 What Was Baela Targaryen’s Role in the Battles?
Baela Targaryen actively participated in the Dance, riding her dragon Moondancer in combat. Her most notable battle was against Aegon II’s dragon, Sunfyre, which resulted in Moondancer’s death and Baela’s imprisonment. Accounts from Dragonstone highlight her bravery and skill as a dragonrider.
6.2 How Did Larys Strong Help Baela Targaryen Survive?
Larys Strong played a crucial role in Baela’s survival by spiriting her away from Dragonstone after Aegon II ordered her execution. This act of intervention saved her life and allowed her to continue playing a role in the aftermath of the Dance. Historical texts suggest that Larys acted out of self-preservation and a desire to maintain influence.
![Lady Baela Targaryen screaming on dragonback in House of the Dragon Season 2 teaser trailer. Alt text: Lady Baela Targaryen screams on dragonback in a House of the Dragon Season 2 teaser, exemplifying her courage and involvement in the aerial battles of the Dance of the Dragons.]
7. How Did Lady Rhaena Targaryen Survive the Dance of the Dragons?
Lady Rhaena Targaryen, another granddaughter of Corlys, survived the Dance of the Dragons by being sent to the Vale of Arryn for safety. She remained away from the major conflicts, ensuring her survival and that of her dragon egg, which eventually hatched into Morning.
7.1 Why Was the Vale of Arryn a Safe Place During the Dance of the Dragons?
The Vale of Arryn was considered a safe haven during the Dance of the Dragons due to its impregnable defenses and neutrality in the conflict. Its geographical isolation and strong leadership made it difficult for either side to attack, ensuring the safety of those sheltered there. Records from the Vale detail the measures taken to maintain its neutrality and security during the war.
7.2 What Was the Significance of Rhaena’s Dragon, Morning?
Rhaena’s dragon, Morning, was one of the last four dragons to survive the Dance of the Dragons. Its survival was significant for the future of House Targaryen, as dragons were essential to their power and prestige. Historical accounts emphasize the importance of dragon survival in maintaining Targaryen influence.
![Rhaena holding her dragon egg in House of the Dragon. Alt text: Rhaena cradles her dragon egg in House of the Dragon, symbolizing hope and the future of dragons amidst the chaos of the Dance of the Dragons.]
8. What Were the Key Battles and Events That Shaped the Survival of These Characters?
The survival of these characters was heavily influenced by key battles and events during the Dance of the Dragons. These include the Storming of the Dragonpit, the Battle of the Gullet, the Battle at Rook’s Rest, and the political maneuvering in King’s Landing.
8.1 How Did the Storming of the Dragonpit Impact the Survivors?
The Storming of the Dragonpit resulted in the deaths of several dragons and key players, but it also created opportunities for some characters to survive. For example, Aegon the Younger witnessed the event from Maegor’s Holdfast, which influenced his later actions and reign. Historical analyses of the event highlight its devastating impact on Targaryen power.
8.2 What Role Did the Battle of the Gullet Play in the Survival of Aegon and Viserys?
The Battle of the Gullet was a pivotal event that separated Aegon and Viserys, leading to their individual survival stories. Aegon escaped on Stormcloud, while Viserys was captured, setting the stage for their separate journeys and eventual reunion. Naval records detail the strategic importance of the Battle of the Gullet and its impact on the war.
9. What Were the Long-Term Consequences of the Dance of the Dragons on Westeros?
The Dance of the Dragons had significant long-term consequences for Westeros, including the decline of dragons, the weakening of House Targaryen, and the reshaping of the political landscape. These consequences influenced the events leading up to Game of Thrones.
9.1 How Did the Dance of the Dragons Contribute to the Decline of Dragons?
The Dance of the Dragons resulted in the deaths of many dragons, contributing to their overall decline in Westeros. This decline had a profound impact on House Targaryen’s power, as dragons were their ultimate weapon and symbol of dominance. Dragonlore texts emphasize the catastrophic loss of dragon knowledge and breeding during the Dance.
9.2 What Political Changes Occurred in Westeros After the Dance of the Dragons?
The Dance of the Dragons led to significant political changes, including the ascension of Aegon III, the marriage between Targaryen factions, and the reshaping of alliances among the Great Houses. These changes set the stage for future conflicts and power struggles in Westeros. Citadel archives detail the complex political negotiations and realignments that occurred after the Dance.
![House of the Dragon poster. Alt text: The official poster for House of the Dragon, a prequel to Game of Thrones, setting the stage for the Targaryen civil war known as the Dance of the Dragons.]
10. How Does House of the Dragon Depict the Survivors of the Dance?
House of the Dragon portrays the survivors of the Dance with varying degrees of accuracy, highlighting their struggles, motivations, and contributions to the war. The show offers a dramatized interpretation of the historical events, bringing the characters and their stories to life.
10.1 What Changes Has House of the Dragon Made to the Survivors’ Stories?
House of the Dragon has made some changes to the survivors’ stories for dramatic effect, such as altering the circumstances of their survival or emphasizing certain aspects of their personalities. These changes are intended to enhance the narrative and engage viewers. Showrunners have discussed their creative choices in interviews, emphasizing the need to balance historical accuracy with storytelling.
10.2 How Does the Show Explore the Psychological Impact of the War on the Survivors?
The show delves into the psychological impact of the Dance on the survivors, exploring their trauma, grief, and the ways in which the war shaped their future actions. This exploration adds depth and complexity to the characters, making their stories more compelling. Psychological analyses of the characters highlight the long-lasting effects of the war on their mental health.
Interested in learning more about the Dance of the Dragons and its impact on the Targaryen dynasty? Visit ten-dance.com to discover more articles, discussions, and resources related to House of the Dragon and the history of Westeros. Explore detailed character profiles, episode analyses, and historical breakdowns to deepen your understanding of this epic saga. Join our community of fans and engage in discussions about your favorite characters and moments from the show.
FAQ: Surviving the Dance of the Dragons
1. What is the Dance of the Dragons?
The Dance of the Dragons was a Targaryen civil war fought over the succession to the Iron Throne, between Rhaenyra Targaryen and Aegon II Targaryen. This devastating conflict resulted in the deaths of many dragons and key members of House Targaryen.
2. How many dragons survived the Dance of the Dragons?
Only four dragons survived the Dance of the Dragons: Silverwing, Cannibal, Sheepstealer, and Morning. The death of so many dragons contributed to their decline in Westeros.
3. Did Aegon II survive the Dance of the Dragons?
No, Aegon II did not survive the Dance of the Dragons. He was poisoned, bringing an end to his reign and paving the way for Aegon III to take the throne.
4. Who became king after the Dance of the Dragons?
Aegon III, also known as Aegon the Younger, became king after the Dance of the Dragons. His ascension marked the end of the civil war and the beginning of a new era for House Targaryen.
5. What happened to Rhaenyra Targaryen during the Dance of the Dragons?
Rhaenyra Targaryen was killed by Aegon II, who fed her to his dragon, Sunfyre. Her death was a major turning point in the Dance of the Dragons.
6. What was the Storming of the Dragonpit?
The Storming of the Dragonpit was a riot in King’s Landing where the smallfolk attacked the Dragonpit, resulting in the deaths of several dragons. This event significantly weakened the Targaryens’ dragon force.
7. Who was Corlys Velaryon?
Corlys Velaryon, also known as the Sea Snake, was the Lord of the Tides and head of House Velaryon. He was a key advisor and naval commander for Rhaenyra Targaryen during the Dance of the Dragons.
8. How did the Dance of the Dragons affect House Targaryen?
The Dance of the Dragons severely weakened House Targaryen, leading to the deaths of many family members and dragons. The war also created deep divisions within the family that would have long-lasting consequences.
9. What role did Cregan Stark play in the aftermath of the Dance of the Dragons?
Cregan Stark served as Hand to Aegon the Younger after the Dance of the Dragons, establishing order and dispensing justice during the “Hour of the Wolf.” He played a crucial role in stabilizing the realm after the war.
10. Where can I learn more about the Dance of the Dragons?
To learn more about the Dance of the Dragons, visit ten-dance.com for detailed articles, character profiles, and historical breakdowns. Join our community of fans and delve deeper into this epic saga.
Are you eager to dive deeper into the world of dance and explore the artistry and history of various dance forms? Join us at ten-dance.com, where we offer a wealth of resources, including online dance lessons for all skill levels and genres. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced dancer, our platform provides valuable tools and guidance to enhance your skills. Discover local dance classes and workshops near you, connect with other dance enthusiasts, and stay updated on the latest dance events in the USA. Start your dance journey with us today and experience the joy and benefits of this captivating art form. Address: 60 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023, United States. Phone: +1 (212) 769-7000. Website: ten-dance.com.
