The Legitimacy of Daenerys Targaryen as Queen in 'A Song of Ice and Fire'

Daenerys Targaryen, a pivotal character in A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin, is often called the Queen of Westeros. However, her claim to this title is complex and multifaceted. In this article, we explore the different aspects that justify her use of the title, including her heritage, military conquests, leadership, and the narrative context of the series.

Targaryen Heritage and Right of Succession

Daenerys is the last surviving member of the Targaryen dynasty, which ruled the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros for nearly 300 years before being overthrown. Although her kin, Viserys, held the claim to the throne but was unable to assert it, Daenerys' Targaryen heritage remains a strong foundation for her claim to the Iron Throne.

In the context of the books, she can rightfully claim the Iron Throne through the Right of Succession. If her brother Viserys, and subsequent heir Joffrey, Tommen, and Myrcella, were not genuine heirs or survived, her claim would be unchallenged. With the potential extinction of the "Robert's" line and Stannis Baratheon's daughter being incapacitated, Daenerys stands as the only legitimate Targaryen heir.

Military Conquests and Leadership

Daenerys' claim to the Iron Throne is not just dynastic. She has built her power through military strength and strategic alliances. By conquering cities such as Meereen and establishing herself as a ruler in Essos, she has gained followers and legitimized her claim to the throne through acts of governance and protection.

In Westeros, the concept of sovereignty is deeply rooted in military conquest. Daenerys' leadership style, characterized by a strong and charismatic personality, has attracted loyal followers who see her as a liberator. Titles such as 'Mother of Dragons' and 'Mother of the Free Folk' reflect her vision for a better world, further reinforcing her claim to the throne.

Challenges to Legitimacy and Narrative Context

Throughout the series, Daenerys faces numerous challenges to her claim to the Iron Throne, particularly from those who do not recognize her right to rule. Her response often involves asserting her identity and vision for the realm, reinforcing her self-proclaimed title. The narrative context and the symbolic nature of her title play a crucial role in shaping the reader's perception of her legitimacy.

Daenerys is also the Queen of Meereen by right of conquest. Before her, there was no Meereenese monarchy. By default, she has the best claim to the Meereenese throne of anyone, making her a legitimate ruler in Essos.

Conclusion

In summary, Daenerys Targaryen calls herself Queen based on her Targaryen heritage, her military conquests, her charismatic leadership, and the symbolic nature of her title. Despite the absence of formal recognition from many in Westeros, her claim to the throne is both justifiable and compelling within the narrative of the series.

Whether one accepts her claim as legitimate depends largely on the belief in the notion of right of succession. In the grand narrative of Westeros, Daenerys Targaryen's rise to power is not just a personal journey but a political one that challenges and redefines the very notion of kingship and queenship.