The Major Houses of Westeros
The family tree of "Game of Thrones" is primarily centered around several key noble houses, each with its own unique history, values, and ambitions. Here are the most significant houses:
1. House Stark
- Sigil: A grey direwolf on a white field
- Motto: "Winter is Coming"
House Stark is the ruling family of the North, residing at Winterfell. The Starks are known for their honor and integrity.
Key Members:
- Eddard (Ned) Stark: The head of the family, executed in the first season.
- Catelyn Stark: Ned's wife, originally from House Tully.
- Children: Robb, Sansa, Arya, Bran, and Rickon Stark.
2. House Lannister
- Sigil: A golden lion on a crimson field
- Motto: "Hear Me Roar!" (official), "A Lannister Always Pays His Debts" (common saying)
House Lannister is one of the wealthiest families in Westeros, ruling over the Westerlands from Casterly Rock.
Key Members:
- Tywin Lannister: The shrewd patriarch of the family.
- Jaime Lannister: The Kingslayer, known for his complex character arc.
- Cersei Lannister: The ambitious queen, sister to Jaime.
- Tyrion Lannister: The witty and clever dwarf, often underestimated.
3. House Targaryen
- Sigil: A red three-headed dragon on a black field
- Motto: "Fire and Blood"
House Targaryen is known for its dragons and a tumultuous history, having been the ruling dynasty before being overthrown.
Key Members:
- Aerys II Targaryen: The last Targaryen king, known as the Mad King.
- Daenerys Targaryen: The last surviving member of the family, seeking to reclaim her throne.
- Viserys Targaryen: Daenerys's brother, obsessed with power.
4. House Baratheon
- Sigil: A crowned black stag on a gold field
- Motto: "Ours is the Fury"
House Baratheon became prominent after Robert's Rebellion, overthrowing the Targaryens.
Key Members:
- Robert Baratheon: The king at the series' start, known for his rebellious youth.
- Stannis Baratheon: The stern and determined younger brother.
- Renly Baratheon: The charismatic and ambitious younger brother.
The Intricacies of the Family Tree
The family tree of "Game of Thrones" is not just about lineage; it's also about the relationships, betrayals, and alliances that shape the narrative. Below are some of the most pivotal connections:
Key Relationships
1. Ned Stark and Catelyn Stark
- Their marriage unites House Stark and House Tully, bringing together the North and the Riverlands.
2. Cersei Lannister and Jaime Lannister
- Twins who have a passionate but secretive relationship, leading to the birth of three children who are publicly claimed to be the offspring of King Robert Baratheon.
3. Daenerys Targaryen and Khal Drogo
- Daenerys's marriage to the Dothraki warlord helps her gain power and followers, setting her on a path to reclaim the Iron Throne.
The Importance of Legitimacy
Legitimacy plays a critical role in the "Game of Thrones" family tree. Many characters grapple with their identities based on their birthright, leading to significant plot developments.
- Jon Snow: Initially believed to be Ned Stark's illegitimate son, his true parentage is revealed later in the series, linking him to House Targaryen.
- Gendry: The illegitimate son of Robert Baratheon, his claim to the throne becomes a point of interest as the series progresses.
The Impact of the Family Tree on the Plot
The relationships and rivalries depicted in the family tree significantly impact the storyline. Here are some ways the family dynamics influence events:
Political Alliances and Marriages
Political marriages are a common tactic in Westeros, used to forge alliances and solidify power.
- Robb Stark and Jeyne Westerling: Robb's marriage to Jeyne, not sanctioned by his mother, leads to disastrous consequences.
- Cersei’s Marriage to Robert Baratheon: This union is fraught with tension and sets the stage for much of the political intrigue in the series.
Betrayals and Power Struggles
Betrayals are a recurring theme, driven by familial loyalty or ambition.
- Petyr Baelish (Littlefinger): His manipulations lead to the downfall of several key characters, showing how personal vendettas can disrupt the family tree.
- The Red Wedding: A pivotal event that dramatically alters the Stark family and the balance of power in Westeros.
Exploring the Extended Family
Aside from the main houses, the family tree also includes a variety of lesser-known families, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Westeros.
House Tully
- Sigil: A silver trout on a blue and red field
- Motto: "Family, Duty, Honor"
The Tullys, known for their loyalty, provide critical support to House Stark.
House Greyjoy
- Sigil: A golden kraken on a black field
- Motto: "We Do Not Sow"
The Greyjoys of the Iron Islands have a distinct culture and often clash with other houses.
House Tyrell
- Sigil: A golden rose on a green field
- Motto: "Growing Strong"
The Tyrells are known for their wealth and influence in the Reach, with characters like Margaery Tyrell playing significant roles in the power struggles of King's Landing.
Conclusion
The family tree of "Game of Thrones" is a fascinating and intricate aspect of the series that enhances its narrative depth. By understanding the connections between the various houses and characters, fans can better appreciate the motivations that drive the story forward. From noble alliances to bitter betrayals, the relationships within the family tree are at the heart of the conflict in Westeros, making it a vital area of study for any devoted follower of the saga. Whether you are a seasoned fan or a newcomer to the series, exploring the complexities of the "Game of Thrones" family tree will enrich your understanding of this epic tale of power, loyalty, and survival.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Targaryen family tree in 'Game of Thrones'?
The Targaryen family tree is crucial as it illustrates the lineage of Daenerys and her brother Viserys, showcasing their claim to the Iron Throne and the history of dragonlords in Westeros.
Who are the main branches of House Stark in the 'Game of Thrones' family tree?
The main branches of House Stark include Eddard (Ned) Stark and his children: Robb, Sansa, Arya, Bran, and Rickon, as well as Jon Snow, who is revealed to have Targaryen blood.
How does the Lannister family tree connect to the Iron Throne?
The Lannister family tree connects to the Iron Throne through Tywin Lannister, his children Cersei, Jaime, and Tyrion, and their involvement in the political machinations that lead to several key power shifts in Westeros.
What role does the Baratheon family play in the 'Game of Thrones' family tree?
The Baratheon family plays a pivotal role as they are the ruling house at the start of the series, with Robert Baratheon being king, and his brothers Stannis and Renly vying for power after his death.
Can you explain the connection between the Targaryens and the Starks?
The connection between the Targaryens and the Starks is established through marriage alliances; notably, Lyanna Stark is revealed to be the mother of Jon Snow, whose real name is Aegon Targaryen, making him a key figure in both houses.
What is the relationship between the Tully family and House Stark?
House Tully is related to House Stark through Catelyn Stark, born Catelyn Tully, who marries Ned Stark, thus intertwining the families through their children and political alliances.
How does the Greyjoy family fit into the 'Game of Thrones' family tree?
The Greyjoy family fits into the family tree as one of the Great Houses of Westeros, with Balon Greyjoy as the head, and his children, including Theon and Yara, playing significant roles in the political landscape of the series.
What complexities arise from the Targaryen family tree in 'Game of Thrones'?
The Targaryen family tree is complex due to their history of incestuous marriages to keep the bloodline pure, leading to various mental health issues among the family members, as well as multiple claims to power among descendants.
