The latest episode of HBO's fantasy prequel series A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms has delivered a monumental revelation that has sent shockwaves through the fan community. In episode three, titled The Squire, the character Egg, portrayed by Dexter Sol Ansell, is dramatically unmasked as Aegon V Targaryen, a pivotal figure in Westerosi history and a future monarch.
The Identity Revelation
Throughout the series, Egg has deliberately concealed his true lineage from his companion, Ser Duncan the Tall, played by Peter Claffey. His motivation stems from a profound fear of succumbing to the infamous Targaryen madness that has plagued his family for generations. To maintain his disguise, Egg shaved his head, but viewers noticed the distinctive white-blonde Targaryen hair beginning to regrow, hinting at his royal heritage.
This strategic concealment was Egg's attempt to escape the destiny that befell many of his relatives, driven by the centuries of inbreeding within the Targaryen bloodline designed to preserve their Valyrian purity. The episode's climax leaves Ser Duncan reeling from the disclosure, setting the stage for deeper exploration of their dynamic.
Connection to the Mad King
A pressing question among fans has been whether Egg transforms into the Mad King from the original Game of Thrones series. The answer is definitively no. The Mad King, Aerys II Targaryen, portrayed by David Rintoul, is actually Egg's son. Egg, known historically as 'Aegon the Unlikely,' ascended the Iron Throne before Aerys, who only became king following his father's untimely death.
The original series depicted Aerys and other Targaryens descending into madness due to genetic deterioration from prolonged inbreeding. This very fear haunts Egg in the prequel, compelling him to distance himself from his family's legacy. The narrative also introduces Prince Aerion, nicknamed 'Aerion the Monstrous,' played by Finn Bennett, who already exhibits signs of the cruelty and instability characteristic of the family's darker members.
Historical Context of Targaryen Madness
While Aerys II is the most notorious Mad King, Westeros has witnessed numerous Targaryens grappling with insanity over the centuries. Notable examples include King Baelor I Targaryen, Prince Rhaegel Targaryen, and Viserys Targaryen, portrayed by Harry Lloyd. Additionally, figures like Maegor the Cruel displayed extreme brutality, though it remains debated whether this stemmed from Targaryen madness or sheer tyranny.
The conclusion of Game of Thrones further implied that Daenerys Targaryen, played by Emilia Clarke, descended into madness after the traumatic loss of Missandei, leading to the destruction of King's Landing. This pattern underscores the recurring theme of mental instability within the dynasty, adding layers to Egg's apprehensions.
Director's Insight
Director Sarah Adina Smith, speaking on HBO's Inside the Episode, elaborated on the careful crafting of this reveal. She noted that while avid readers of George R.R. Martin's novellas anticipated the twist, the production team aimed to surprise newcomers. Smith emphasized the inclusion of subtle clues throughout earlier episodes, rewarding attentive viewers with breadcrumbs that lead to this pivotal moment.
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms continues to air on HBO and HBO Max in the United States on Sundays, and on Sky Atlantic and NOW in the United Kingdom on Mondays, delving deeper into the rich tapestry of Westeros's past.
