Did Aegon Have Kids with His Sister?
The question of whether Aegon, a figure from medieval legend, had children with his sister has intrigued historians and genealogists for centuries. The story of Aegon, often associated with the House of Targaryen, is steeped in mystery and controversy. This article delves into the historical evidence and speculative theories surrounding this enigmatic figure.
Aegon Targaryen, also known as Aegon the Unconquered, is traditionally depicted as the first Targaryen king of Westeros, who united the Seven Kingdoms with his sister, Rhaenys. The legend suggests that their union was not only political but also romantic, leading to the birth of their son, Aenys. However, the validity of this claim has been hotly debated among scholars.
Historical evidence supporting the idea that Aegon had children with his sister is scarce. The primary source of this tale is the “A Song of Ice and Fire” series by George R.R. Martin, which is a fictional work and not a historical account. Martin himself has stated that the story of Aegon and Rhaenys is a part of the Targaryen mythology and should be taken with a grain of salt.
Some historians argue that the story of Aegon and Rhaenys is a reflection of the medieval practice of royal inbreeding. Inbreeding was not uncommon among European monarchs during that period, as it was believed to maintain the purity of the royal bloodline. However, this does not necessarily mean that Aegon and Rhaenys had children together.
On the other hand, there are those who believe that the story of Aegon and Rhaenys is based on historical events. They point to the fact that Aegon was married to Rhaenys, and their son, Aenys, was born shortly after their marriage. This could imply a close relationship between the siblings, which may have led to speculation about a romantic involvement.
Despite the lack of concrete evidence, the story of Aegon and Rhaenys continues to captivate the imagination of many. It serves as a reminder of the complex and often contradictory nature of historical accounts and the power of storytelling. Whether or not Aegon had children with his sister, the legend of Aegon the Unconquered and his sister-queen remains a fascinating part of medieval history and fantasy literature.
