Welcome to the season 2 finale episode! In this episode, Liz shares some final thoughts and does an overview of House Targaryen. She makes plenty of references to episodes from this season. So be sure to listen to those first or you will hear spoilers! She includes some references to real world history and personal commentary when reflecting on the dynasty as a whole.

The second half of the episode includes a discussion of what Liz will be covering in Season 3 later in 2025. The main focus of next season will be the upcoming Max series A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. She will be doing weekly post episode reactions and discuss the Tale of Dunk and Egg novellas, which the tv show is based on.

Liz also mentions some of the projects she will be doing during the hiatus both related to this podcast and other activities. In order to keep up to date with news about this podcast and all things Westeros, be sure to sign up to the newsletter! https://www.thewesterosiprimer.com/newsletter If you are on X, Instagram, or Bluesky, follow this podcast's social media accounts!

Thanks for listening and tune in again later in 2025!

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Join Liz in the final chapters of the Targaryen dynasty as she discusses the reigns of Jaehaerys II and Aerys II. She welcomes new listeners and announces a brief hiatus to prepare for season three.

The discussion starts with Jaehaerys II, his early life and his marriage to his sister Shaera. The episode also includes his father's attempts to forge alliances through strategic marriages.

Next, Liz talks about the War of the Ninepenny Kings and the rise of Aerys II to the throne. The episode concludes with the turbulent reign of King Aerys II.

Liz explores his strained relationship with Tywin Lannister and his descent into madness. From the threat of Maelys Blackfyre to the legacy of Rhaegar Targaryen, this episode is packed a lot of events that lead to the end of the Targaryen dynasty.

Be sure to engage with our ongoing Targaryen Kings poll, as your thoughts will enrich our future discussions.

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Join Liz as she continues her journey through Westerosi history! The episode starts with a welcome to new listeners. Liz shares updates to the Targaryen Kings poll. Do you agree with what your fellow listeners think? Do you disagree? Let your opinion be known by answering the poll yourself! Head to https://www.thewesterosiprimer.com/king-poll and join in!

If you're new to this podcast, Liz highlights why you should check out previous episodes. The various episodes of this podcast offer insights into the lore of Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon.

The main topic of this is Aegon V. Liz discusses his personality and his childhood. In particular, she spotlights Aegon's relationship with his brother Aemon.

In the second half of the episode, Liz dives into King Aegon's early reign and the crucial decisions he made. This includes banishing Brynden Rivers to the Wall. Liz also discusses impact of the Fourth Blackfyre Rebellion. Liz also touches on Ser Duncan the Tall's pivotal role in quelling the rebellion and his rise to Lord Commander of the Kingsguard.

As we wrap up our House Targaryen series, be sure to tune in to the next episode. Liz will discuss the final two Targaryen monarchs and the future direction of the podcast.

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Join Liz as she explores the reigns of Targaryen brothers Aerys I and Maekar I. The episode picks up with the Great Spring Sickness, which drastically altered the line of succession.

Aerys I is the bookish brother only interested in the great mysteries. He stands in contrast to his brother Maekar I, known for his martial prowess and swift judgment.

Also in this episode, Liz discusses the Second and Third Blackfyre Rebellions and the rise of the Golden Company. Aegor Rivers' rallies the exiled supporters of Daemon Blackfyre through the Golden Company. This is a constrast with the TV portrayal in Game of Thrones.

This episode also covers the quieter reign of King Maekar. Notable events include the end of House Lothston, and the subsequent emergence of House Whent at Harrenhal.

As always, listeners are invited to sign up the newsletter and follow the podcast's social media accounts. Keep up to date with future content via newsletter, X, Instagram, and Bluesky.

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What if one strategic marriage could end a war and change the course of Westeros? Join Liz on the Westerosi Primer as she explores the reign of Daeron II Targaryen. This king would later be remembered as Daeron the Good.

This episode kicks off with an some listener feedback on the best and worst Targaryen kings. Liz starts with Daeron's formative years. She discusses his education and the union with Myriah Martell. This marriage brought peace with Dorne and paved the way for a new generation of Targaryens.

The tension that marked Daeron's relationship with his father, Aegon IV, are explored. Daeron demonstrates his intelligence as he sidestep his father’s reckless actions.

The episode also includes first Blackfyre Rebellion. Liz delves into the intricacies of loyalty, legitimacy, and power. Daemon Blackfyre had privileges he wouldn't have gotten if not for his parentage. Despite a thriving family life, Daemon becomes a challenger to his brother Daeron II. The Blackfyre Rebellion was fueled by discontent among the nobility and questions about Daeron's legitimacy.

Daemon adopts the reversed Targaryen sigil and instigates the first of many rebellions. The Rebellion ends with the crucial Battle of the Redgrass Field. Daemon’s advance is ultimately thwarted by Brynden Rivers.

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Podcast Summary

What if the scandals and indulgences of a king could unravel an entire kingdom? Join Liz as she scrutinizes the reign of Aegon IV, infamously dubbed Aegon the Unworthy. His rule was a whirlwind of chaos in Westeros. From a small council filled with sycophants to reckless personal escapades, Aegon's pursuit of pleasure over responsibility left a legacy of instability.

This episode draws parallels between Aegon and England's notorious Henry VIII, each renowned for their scandalous affairs and tumultuous personal lives.

Liz also includes the tale of Sir Terence Toyne and Bethany Bracken. Theri affair sparked a quest for vengeance that caused the death of Aemon the Dragon Knight. We dissect Aegon's fraught relationship with his son Daeron. Liz also explores his futile attempts to conquer Dorne, and the carousel of mistresses who populated his court.

As we explore Aegon's reign, let's ponder whether his legacy of chaos was rivaled only by Aerys II. Engage with the intriguing question of who was truly the worst king in Westeros, and reflect on how Aegon's actions set the stage for a lineage mired in conflict and intrigue.

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This podcast episode delves into the reigns of Targaryen kings Baelor and Viserys II. King Baelor becomes known for his religious zeal. He made decisions that were more divine than diplomatic. His reign included releasing Dornish captives and journeying to Sunspear for peace. Baelor's actions, such as rescuing his cousin Aemon and secluding his sisters, revealed contradictions in his rule. Despite his piety, Baelor's decisions often conflicted with the kingdom's practical needs.

The episode shifts focus to Viserys II, whose legacy impacted Westeros profoundly. His son, Aegon the Unworthy, became infamous partially due to Viserys II's parenting challenges. Listeners can explore parallels between Viserys I and II and their sons named Aegon. The podcast sets the stage for the next episode dedicated to Aegon the Unworthy.

Baelor's reign began after Daeron the Young Dragon's death, emphasizing religion over politics. His release of Dornish hostages and peace journey to Sunspear culminated in a future marriage alliance. Baelor's rescue of Aemon Targaryen from a snake pit showcased his saintly yet impractical nature. His reign, marked by charitable acts, was flawed by decisions like book burning.

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Join Liz on an exciting journey through the history of Westeros, kicking off with a warm welcome to the new year, 2025. She shares some updates about the future of the podcast. This includes plans for a hiatus after this season, with the return to cover reactions to the highly anticipated series "A Night of the Seven Kingdoms." Please subscribe to the podcast newsletter to find out updates and other content not part of the podcast! https://www.thewesterosiprimer.com/newsletter

In this episode, we explore the fascinating reign of Daeron I, known as the Young Dragon. Ascending to the throne at just 14 years old after the death of his father, Aegon III, Daeron embarked on a bold campaign to conquer Dorne.

Daeron's ambitious goal is inspired by historical figures like Alexander the Great. Daeron faces challenges including fierce resistance and assassination attempts. Despite his short reign, Daeron left a lasting impact on the Targaryen dynasty and Westerosi history.

Visit thewesterosiprimer.com to share your thoughts on this chapter in Westerosi history.

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This podcast episode explores the end of Aegon III's regency and the rest of his reign in Westeros. Also in this episode:

• Unwin Peake's possible involvement in the Secret Siege
• Torrhen Manderly becomes Hand of the King and new additions to the Small Council
• Trials are held for conspirators involved in poisoning Queen Daenaera and Gaemon Palehair. Also the conspiracy against the Rogares.

Aegon III's adult years are marked by peace but social challenges due to his introverted nature. His marriage to Daenaera and their five children are also explored.

The episode concludes with Aegon's death and the succession of his son, Daeron. The host, Liz, invites listeners to engage with the content and provides insights into upcoming episodes. Aegon III's reign is detailed, though incomplete due to the unfinished "Fire and Blood Volume 2."

The podcast encourages listeners to participate in surveys and community discussions. It highlights listener demographics and thanks them for their support. The episode concludes with holiday wishes and a teaser for future episodes. The podcast offers an engaging journey through the rich history of Westeros.

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In this podcast episode, we continue discussing the regency of King Aegon III amidst political upheaval. Aegon's brother Viserys returns, bringing both comfort and new challenges to the Red Keep.

Thaddeus Rowan becomes Hand of the King struggling with complex political dynamics. We explore the influence of House Rogare who draw parallels to the Medici family. The Rogare family's rise and subsequent fall impact Westeros's political and economic affairs.

The fierce battle for leadership of the Vale unfolds is marked by treacherous terrains and strategic campaigns. Tension in the Red Keep escalates over dragon eggs and a tragic poisoning incident.

The Lysene Spring sees economic growth and collapse driven by the Rogare family. The Rogare family's financial collapse leads to the arrest of prominent figures in King's Landing.

A young Aegon emerges with newfound resolve amidst the chaos, signifying his transition into adulthood. We continue to examine the intricate interplay of power, betrayal, and emerging leadership during this tumultuous period.

Aegon's regency nears the end with significant developments setting the stage for future episodes. The episode concludes with a promise to explore the aftermath in the next episode.

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