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In “House of the Dragon” season 1, episode 10, titled “The Black Queen,” Ewan Mitchell’s portrayal of Aemond Targaryen reaches its pinnacle, establishing him as one of the show’s most captivating villains with a richly crafted backstory. Introduced in season 1, episode 6, “The Princess and the Queen,” Aemond emerges as the secondborn son of Alicent Hightower and King Viserys I Targaryen, making him their third and final child in the show’s canon.
Unlike his brother, Prince Daeron Targaryen, who is omitted from the show, Aemond aligns himself with his elder brother Aegon while harboring ambitions of claiming the Iron Throne if the opportunity presents itself. His character development is intricately woven with elements drawn from the lore of George R. R. Martin’s “Fire & Blood,” which provides crucial insights into how Aemond’s journey will unfold amidst the Dance of the Dragons.
Aemond Targaryen is depicted as the pride of House Hightower, particularly his mother Alicent, and grows up to be the most astute member of the Hightower-Targaryen lineage. His standout moments in season 1, particularly in episode 7, “Driftmark,” showcase his resilience and determination. Despite facing ridicule from Rhaenyra’s sons for lacking a dragon, Aemond’s resolve remains unwavering. His eventual acquisition of Lady Laena Velaryon’s she-dragon, Vhagar, sets the stage for significant conflicts and character dynamics.
The altercation between Aemond and Rhaenyra’s sons, Jacaerys and Lucerys, fueled by resentment and rivalry, culminates in a pivotal moment where Aemond loses an eye to Lucerys’ dagger. This event, prophesied by his sister Helaena, foreshadows Aemond’s transformation and sets him on a path of vengeance and ambition.
Aemond’s subsequent actions, including his alliance with Lord Borros Baratheon and the tragic encounter with Lucerys at Storm’s End, further solidify his reputation as a formidable and ruthless figure. His fateful confrontation with Lucerys above Shipbreaker Bay not only ignites the Dance of the Dragons but also earns him the derogatory moniker “Kinslayer.”
Throughout “House of the Dragon,” Aemond emerges as a complex and multifaceted character, drawing parallels with his uncle Daemon Targaryen in terms of ambition and determination. The mirroring of their personalities and aspirations foreshadows the inevitable clash between Aemond and Daemon, culminating in the dramatic showdown above the Gods Eye lake near Harrenhal.
As the series progresses, Aemond’s character arc is poised to unravel further, leading to pivotal moments that will shape the fate of House Targaryen and the Seven Kingdoms. With his charisma, ambition, and relentless pursuit of power, Aemond Targaryen stands as one of the most compelling and formidable figures in “House of the Dragon.”