The Iron Throne has always been the ultimate prize in Westeros. However, ‘House of the Dragon’ has time and time again proven that wanting power and being capable of handling it are two very different things. The Targaryen claimants have left behind a trail of death, destruction and political chaos after three seasons of the Dance of the Dragons.
But maybe the most interesting question is not who is strongest, but who would be able to provide stability to the kingdom. Rather than backing Rhaenyra, Aegon, Aemond, or another Targaryen, the showrunner Ryan Condal pointed toward Alicent Hightower as someone who could potentially provide the kind of measured leadership Westeros desperately needs.
Alicent Hightower Has Experienced Both Sides of Power In ‘House Of The Dragon’
After all of Alicent’s actions during the war, she’s not a likely queen. Her choices eventually led to civil war, and she has certainly had the ability to be vindictive when provoked. However, that’s what makes her a fascinating example of a potential ruler. Condal’s argument is based largely on experience.
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“There’s not a character in the show that has seen more of a differential between power and lack of power. She’s seen it all. She doesn’t ride a dragon, which I think is probably important for a sane and stable leader,” he told Empire.
Alicent has been used to power since she was a child, as the daughter of Otto Hightower and the Queen. She has witnessed the power of politics when it is won, taken, and contested. Most significantly, she has come to a place where her relationship with power has shifted. That evolution matters.
“Even though Alicent could be vindictive about things, we have seen her let go of vindictiveness, in a way that other people seem to double down on it as things get darker. And that’s where I think you get to see the true nature of a character,” he added.
Alicent appears to be getting tired of the repercussions of the fight for the throne, unlike some of the characters. She has seen her family broken up and how ambition can make people hate each other. And Westeros needs someone who knows that power comes with consequences.
Ryan Condal’s Non-Targaryen Choices Says A Lot
Condal’s choice also highlights one of ‘House of the Dragon‘s biggest themes: bloodline does not necessarily equal good leadership. The Targaryens have dragons, ancient legitimacy, and competing claims to the throne. However, their desire for succession has brought Westeros to the brink.
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Alicent, on the other hand, doesn’t have a dragon and there’s no easy claim that would bring the kingdom together. But her lack of overwhelming power may be her benefit. Condal also noted Corlys Velaryon is another strong possibility, citing his experience and knowledge of politics.
For years, the Sea Snake has been sailing through war, commerce, and negotiations, as well as the ever-changing landscape of Westerosi politics. Neither is exactly an easy option. And maybe that’s the key. With all the troubles Westeros has faced, perhaps it’s time for the kingdom to have a little less of a dragon rider.
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