Game of Thrones Season 7 finally confirmed the long-standing theory about Jon Snow’s parentage.
Since the release of George RR Martin’s first book in 1996, fans have speculated that Jon might not be Ned Stark’s illegitimate son. This theory, known as R+L=J (Rhaegar + Lyanna = Jon), has now been confirmed as canon.
Jon is revealed to be the son of Lyanna Stark, Ned’s sister, and Rhaegar Targaryen. In truth, his given name is Aegon VII Targaryen, but to viewers, he will always be Jon.
This revelation has significant implications for Season 8. It alters the dynamic between Jon and Daenerys and establishes Jon as the rightful heir to the Iron Throne.
Jon’s real parentage will shape the last season’s storyline and add an intriguing layer to the narrative of Game of Thrones.
Who Were Rhaegar & Lyanna?
Rhaegar Targaryen, the Mad King’s son and elder sibling to Daenerys, married Elia Martell. But Lyanna Stark, Rickard Stark’s sole daughter and Ned’s younger sister, was betrothed to Robert Baratheon.
But, Rhaegar and Lyanna chose to elope, leaving their intended partners behind. Rhaegar had his marriage to Elia annulled by the High Septon.
The couple had a secret wedding ceremony, as revealed in Bran’s vision at the end of Season 7. The Tower of Joy in Dorne was where Jon, their only child together, was born.
Tragically, Lyanna passed away shortly after giving birth to Jon. She entrusted her brother, Ned, with the responsibility of protecting him. Ned vowed to fulfill this promise, taking Jon as his own and raising him as his son.
Everything About Game Of Thrones Season 8
In the belief that Rhaegar had kidnapped Lyanna, her father and eldest brother Brandon sought revenge.
Which escalated into a full-blown war when they joined forces with Robert. Robert eventually killed Rhaegar in battle.
Jaime Lannister assassinated the Mad King from behind, resulting in a new ruling family in Westeros.
Robert was determined to eliminate Daenerys in season 1. If he had known about Jon’s true identity as a Targaryen, he would have also sought to kill him.
To fulfill his promise to his dying sister, Ned raised Jon as his son, pretending Jon was his illegitimate child fathered during the war. He kept the truth a secret, including his wife, Catelyn.
That is why she deeply resented Jon throughout his life, seeing him as a constant reminder of her husband’s alleged infidelity.
Jon’s Claim To The Iron Throne: Why Is He The True Heir?
As Rhaegar’s only legitimate son, Jon is next in line for the throne. Despite Daenerys being Rhaegar’s sister, Jon has a stronger claim to the throne.
But Jon has never been interested in pursuing power and is unlikely to challenge his newfound love for the crown.
Their immediate concern is the looming threat of an army of undead beings led by a zombie dragon, marching or flying south past The Wall.
Interestingly, Jon, Rhaegar’s son, also considers Daenerys his aunt, which may create an awkward dynamic between the two.
At the same time, the Targaryens are known for their history of incestuous relationships. It remains to be seen how this revelation will affect the relationship of Westeros’ most popular couple.
