Rhaenys Targaryen
Passed over for the throne by tradition, she became a fierce defender of the rightful heir.
Rhaenys Targaryen, known throughout Westeros as 'The Queen Who Never Was,' is a formidable dragonrider and a central figure in the events leading to the Dance of the Dragons. She is Viserys I and Daemon Targaryen's first cousin and the wife of Corlys Velaryon. As the only child of Aemon Targaryen, the late heir apparent and third son of King Jaehaerys I, she was once a candidate to succeed her grandfather as ruler. However, she was passed over in favor of her younger cousin Viserys due to her gender. This pivotal moment defined her political stance as she navigated the complex succession crisis that would tear the realm apart.
- Character Role
- Dragonrider
- Affiliation
- House Targaryen (via blood), House Velaryon (by marriage)
- First Appearance
- Seasons 1–2 of House of the Dragon
- Status
- Active (per source coverage)
- Dragon
- Meleys (the 'Red Queen')
- Spouse
- Corlys Velaryon
Lore & Background
Rhaenys's life is marked by the injustice of being bypassed for the Iron Throne. Her father, Aemon Targaryen, was King Jaehaerys I's third son and heir apparent after the death of his older brother Aegon. As Aemon's only child, Rhaenys held a strong claim to succeed her grandfather, yet the council chose Viserys, her younger male cousin, instead. This decision established the precedent that would later fuel the conflict between the 'Blacks' and the 'Greens.' Despite this personal slight, she remained loyal to House Targaryen. She is married to Corlys Velaryon, known as 'the Sea Snake,' the Lord of Driftmark and head of one of the wealthiest families in the Seven Kingdoms. Together, they form a powerful alliance within the court.
In Their Own Story
Rhaenys commands respect as a warrior and dragonrider bonded to Meleys, also known as the 'Red Queen.' Her bond with this formidable beast underscores her status as a capable leader during the succession crisis. While her cousin Viserys ruled for many years, Rhaenys's support became crucial when his daughter, Rhaenyra, was named heir. The source notes she is Viserys and Daemon's cousin, placing her firmly within the inner circle of power. Her dragon, Meleys, is described as a 'Red Queen,' highlighting the ferocity she brings to any conflict. Although the text does not detail specific battles or dialogues from the show, it confirms her role as a key figure who backed Rhaenyra's claim against the usurpation by Alicent Hightower and her son Aegon II.
Reader's Guide
Fans should recognize Rhaenys Targaryen for her unique position in the lineage: daughter of the former heir, cousin to the king, and wife to a naval legend. Her dragon, Meleys, distinguishes her from other female characters like Rhaenyra (Syrax) or Alicent's allies. The source explicitly states she was passed over due to gender, a fact that shapes her character's motivation. She is portrayed by Eve Best in seasons 1 and 2. Unlike some relatives who switched allegiances, her loyalty to the Targaryen cause remains consistent as a supporter of Rhaenyra. Her connection to House Velaryon through marriage strengthens the 'Black' faction's naval power.
Did You Know?
- Rhaenys is known as the 'Queen Who Never Was' because she was passed over for the throne in favor of her younger male cousin Viserys.
- She is the only child of Aemon Targaryen, who was King Jaehaerys I's third son and heir apparent after the death of his older brother Aegon.
- Rhaenys is married to Corlys Velaryon, the most famous seafarer in Westerosi history known as 'the Sea Snake'.
- She is bonded to the dragon Meleys, also referred to as the 'Red Queen'.
- Eve Best portrays Rhaenys Targaryen in seasons 1 and 2 of the series.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Rhaenys Targaryen?
She is a highborn Targaryen princess and dragonrider often called "The Queen Who Never Was" because she was denied the throne due to her gender. Married into House Velaryon, she serves as a powerful advisor and commander during King Viserys I's reign.
What dragon does Rhaenys Targaryen ride?
She is bonded with Meleys, a massive red dragon known in Westeros as "The Red Queen." This formidable mount allows her to lead charges effectively against rival houses during conflicts.
Why was Rhaenys passed over for the throne?
Although she was the first in line by blood after her grandfather King Jaehaerys I, ancient customs prioritized male heirs over females. Her uncle Viserys was ultimately selected as king instead of her despite her stronger claim.
Who is Rhaenys Targaryen married to?
She is the wife of Ser Corlys Velaryon, a wealthy and influential lord known as "The Sea Snake." Their union joins two powerful bloodlines, granting them significant political leverage within the realm.
What role does she play in the Dance of the Dragons?
Rhaenys becomes a fierce defender of her niece Rhaenyra's claim to the Iron Throne against Alicent Hightower's faction. Her experience and dragonriding skills make her an indispensable military leader for the Blacks.
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