Rhaenyra and Alicent: a complicated relationship in House of the Dragon
Fans of House of the Dragon still find great fascination in the interaction between Rhaenyra Targaryen and Alicent Hightower, two main players. The series has revolved mostly on their complicated dynamic, which changes from childhood friendship to bitter rivalry; every season adds fresh layers of mystery.
Rivalry's Foundation: the Rhaenyra and Alicent Friendship
Rhaenyra and Alicent were presented as close friends right from the start. Their fathers, Viserys Targaryen and Otto Hightower, respectively the King and the Hand of the King, bonded them. They also understood the stresses of court life, especially for young women fighting for influence and power.
From Friendship to Rivalry, Rhaenyra and Alicent
Their relationship underwent a sea change when Viserys decided to wed Alicent—a choice Rhaenyra saw as a betrayal. Alicent was first sympathetic to Rhaenyra's emotions, but their conflict grew until it was rather severe. The schemes of Otto Hightower, who aimed to guarantee his daughter's place in the court, stoked their competitiveness even more.
Rhaenyra's Decisions' Effect on Alicent
Rhaenyra made choices that further alienated Alicent as she embraced her position as Iron Throne heir. Alicent's resentment grew more pronounced in her relationship with Daemon Targaryen and the birth of her three children—conceived outside of marriage.
Rising Resentment of Alicent
During this time, each woman felt she was acting in the best interests of the realm, so sowing the seeds of conflict. But their different objectives and the relentless actions of people around them guaranteed that their rivalry would keep getting more intense.
A Legacy of Their Rivalry: The Dance of the Dragons
The dance of the dragons, a civil war between the Blacks (those supporting Rhaenyra) and the Greens (those supporting Alicent), marked the pinnacle of this complicated relationship. Driven by their rivalry, this conflict sent Westeros into anarchy and left a legacy of death and devastation that would define the Seven Kingdoms' history.
