The Winds of Winter Theory Fixes Game of Thrones’ Jon Snow Targaryen Name Mistake

by

In the realm of “Game of Thrones,” there are few topics as widely discussed and hypothesized as Jon Snow’s parentage. The theory suggesting that Jon’s real parents are Rhaegar Targaryen and Lyanna Stark, often referred to as R+L=J, has been circulating since the 1990s, with fans starting to mull it over only a year or so following George R.R. Martin’s publication of “A Game of Thrones.” While the books have yet to verify this claim, the later seasons of “Game of Thrones” did indeed transform Jon Snow into a Targaryen. However, these same seasons can also be criticized for not fully exploring the implications of this revelation.

In a different phrasing,

Jon Snow’s true identity caused some friction with Daenerys Targaryen during “Game of Thrones,” yet surprisingly, his heritage didn’t play a significant role in the series finale. It’s challenging to envision this being consistent in “The Winds of Winter” and “A Dream of Spring.” George R.R. Martin has meticulously laid the groundwork for this revelation, which could offer deeper insight into Jon’s personal feelings about it due to the first-person narrative of the books. Moreover, the series adaptation overlooked another aspect of the Jon Snow/Targaryen twist-his name, and the books might address that issue.

Jon Snow’s Targaryen Name In Game Of Thrones Didn’t Make Sense

In the finale of “Game of Thrones,” Jon Snow’s true lineage was unveiled, and he was bestowed with a Targaryen name. This move made perfect sense considering Eddard Stark had concealed his nephew’s identity by giving him a new one – that of Jon Arryn, a figure who held great significance for Ned as a mentor and father figure. However, it came as no surprise that there was another, more ancient Targaryen name to be revealed. What might shock some viewers is the specific name chosen: Aegon. In Westeros’ history, this name has been borne by five rulers, with the first being The Conqueror himself. Thus, this name choice presents a certain logic… but there’s a snag.

Before Robert’s Rebellion, Rhaegar Targaryen was married to Elia Martell and together they had a son named Aegon and a daughter Rhaenys. Tragically, both children perished at the end of the rebellion. While the show acknowledges Aegon’s existence, it doesn’t explain why his second son shares the same name as his first. The books hint that Rhaegar was fixated on the Prince That Was Promised prophecy and may have thought they would bear the name Aegon, but this connection isn’t made in the show.

In simpler terms, the naming of Jon Snow as Aegon didn’t strengthen his Targaryen identity but instead seemed like an attempt to exaggerate his importance. It’s almost as if they had no other choice but to call him that! At best, it was a careless decision, at worst, it created a plot inconsistency. The revelation could have been better handled, and hopefully, it will be in the book “The Winds of Winter.

The Winds Of Winter Probably Won’t Repeat This Mistake

George R. R. Martin has consistently shown a more detailed and thoughtful approach to naming and lineage than what’s seen in ‘Game of Thrones’. For instance, the Targaryen family tree is thoroughly explained, and the author often emphasizes the significance of names. While it’s true that he reuses names for rulers like Aegon, which mirrors some English history he was drawing from (for example, eight King Henrys), he is also quite meticulous in his selections. In a 2014 interview [via Blinbox Books], he stated that he “fought over” many names and that until he discovers the perfect name, he “cannot find the character.

If Aegon is the nickname given to Jon in “The Winds of Winter”, it suggests a great deal of consideration has gone into this choice. We might anticipate an exploration of the rationale and deeper significance behind it, as George R.R. Martin would aim to avoid unnecessary confusion. Nevertheless, it’s quite unlikely that Aegon will be Jon’s official name in the books due to a straightforward reason: another character named Aegon Targaryen (supposedly) is still alive.

The book “A Dance with Dragons” introduced Young Griff, who claims to be the firstborn son of Rhaegar Targaryen, who allegedly survived Robert’s Rebellion. He arrives in Westeros at the start of “The Winds of Winter” and intends to claim the Iron Throne. However, since there is already another character named Aegon Targaryen, it would be misleading, excessive, and confusing to introduce yet another one with the same name.

The Two Big Theories For Jon Snow’s Real Name In The Winds of Winter

If Aegon isn’t Jon’s true identity, there are several plausible suggestions for his name. One widely discussed option is that he might be Jaehaerys Targaryen. This name holds significance as it pays homage to Jaehaerys I, the Conciliator, who is known as Westeros’ longest-reigning and wisest king. Unlike Aegon the Conqueror, symbolizing House Targaryen’s power and ambition through fire and blood, Jaehaerys embodies unity and compromise.

Jon Snow exhibits characteristics that align closely with those of a conciliator – an individual who pursues peace when it can be found, and is ready to forfeit personal recognition in favor of the greater good. Since Jon has allied wildlings with the Wall, which could play a crucial role in his future battles against the White Walkers and eventual unification efforts, the title of peacemaker truly suits him well.

An intriguing alternative could be that Jon was actually named Aemon Targaryen, a moniker reminiscent of the Maester from the Night’s Watch. The connection between Aemon and Jon runs deep, as they both grapple with conflicts between family loyalty and their vows, and confront trials of love versus duty. This theme resonates throughout Jon’s narrative in the books and the series, making Aemon an apt namesake. Additionally, such a name choice would be fitting since Rhaegar, who had direct communication with Maester Aemon, could have made this decision. Furthermore, considering Rhaegar’s correspondence about the Prince That Was Promised prophecy, the significance of bestowing Jon this name increases even more.

In simpler terms, there have been other characters in history, such as Aemon the Dragonknight, who share some similarities with Jon Snow. Aemon, son of King Jaehaerys I, had an older brother named Aegon who passed away as a baby. Aemon the Dragonknight joined the Kingsguard at a young age and took vows that prevented him from having children, eventually rising to become Lord Commander and earning a reputation for his nobility and skill in combat – much like Jon Snow. However, the upcoming books by George R.R. Martin, “The Winds of Winter” or “A Dream of Spring,” may offer further insights into the significance of Jon Snow’s Targaryen lineage.

You can stream all eight seasons of “Game of Thrones” on HBO Max, while we eagerly wait for the announcement of the release date for “The Winds of Winter.

https://comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/10-times-game-of-thrones-completely-betrayed-the-books/embed/#

Read More

2025-08-17 22:07