What Happens to Ser Harwin Strong: The Tragic Fate of ‘Breakbones’ in House of the Dragon
Ser Harwin Strong, often referred to as ‘Breakbones’ due to his formidable strength, was a significant character in the first season of HBO’s ‘House of the Dragon.’ His story, while compelling, culminates in a tragic and brutal demise. This article delves into what happens to Ser Harwin Strong, exploring the events leading up to his death and the ripple effects it has on the Targaryen dynasty.
Ser Harwin Strong: A Brief Overview
Before exploring what happens to Ser Harwin Strong, it’s crucial to understand his role in the narrative. Harwin was the eldest son of Lord Lyonel Strong, the Master of Laws and Hand to King Viserys I Targaryen. He was a knight of House Strong, known for his martial prowess and loyalty. He served as a captain in the City Watch of King’s Landing, where he first encountered Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen.
His relationship with Rhaenyra became a central point of contention and fueled much of the drama within the Red Keep. Many suspected, and it was heavily implied, that Harwin Strong was the true father of Rhaenyra’s first three sons: Jacaerys, Lucerys, and Joffrey Velaryon. This suspicion was based on the boys’ brown hair, a stark contrast to the silver-blond hair of the Targaryens and Velaryons.
The Growing Rumors and Accusations
The rumors surrounding the paternity of Rhaenyra’s children became increasingly rampant, poisoning the atmosphere in King’s Landing. Queen Alicent Hightower, Rhaenyra’s former friend and now bitter rival, used these rumors to undermine Rhaenyra’s claim to the Iron Throne. Alicent’s supporters openly questioned the legitimacy of Rhaenyra’s heirs, creating a deep and dangerous rift within the realm. The whispers about what happens to Ser Harwin Strong in relation to these rumors added to the tension.
Ser Criston Cole, Lord Commander of the Kingsguard and former lover of Rhaenyra, fueled these accusations. Driven by jealousy and resentment, Cole constantly questioned the parentage of Rhaenyra’s children, further exacerbating the situation. He saw Harwin Strong as a rival and a symbol of Rhaenyra’s betrayal.
Lord Lyonel Strong’s Resignation and Return to Harrenhal
Lord Lyonel Strong, a man of honor and integrity, was deeply troubled by the rumors surrounding his son and the princess. He understood the danger they posed to the stability of the realm and the Targaryen dynasty. To quell the gossip and protect his family, Lyonel offered his resignation as Hand to the King, requesting to return to Harrenhal with Harwin. King Viserys reluctantly accepted, perhaps hoping that removing Harwin from King’s Landing would silence the rumors.
This decision proved to be a fatal mistake. The return to Harrenhal placed both Lyonel and Harwin in a vulnerable position, far from the protection of the Red Keep. It also set the stage for the tragic events that would soon unfold. The question of what happens to Ser Harwin Strong was about to be answered in the most brutal way possible.
The Fire at Harrenhal: Ser Harwin Strong’s Death
Shortly after arriving at Harrenhal, a devastating fire broke out, claiming the lives of both Lord Lyonel Strong and Ser Harwin Strong. The circumstances surrounding the fire were suspicious, and it was widely believed to be an act of arson. The question of who orchestrated the fire and what happens to Ser Harwin Strong because of it became a central mystery.
The most common suspect was Larys Strong, Harwin’s younger brother and a master manipulator. Larys, known as ‘Clubfoot,’ was a cunning and ambitious figure with a network of spies and a penchant for playing the game of thrones. He had a close relationship with Queen Alicent Hightower and was known to carry out her desires, no matter how dark. It is heavily implied that Larys orchestrated the fire at Harrenhal to eliminate his father and brother, thereby securing his position as Lord of Harrenhal and gaining favor with Alicent.
Another potential suspect, though less likely, was Daemon Targaryen, Rhaenyra’s uncle and future husband. Daemon was known for his ruthlessness and ambition, and he may have seen Harwin as a threat to his relationship with Rhaenyra. However, there is no direct evidence to suggest Daemon’s involvement, and Larys remains the primary suspect.
Regardless of who was responsible, the fire at Harrenhal marked a turning point in the Dance of the Dragons. The deaths of Lyonel and Harwin Strong removed two powerful figures from the board and further escalated the conflict between Rhaenyra and Alicent. The tragic fate of what happens to Ser Harwin Strong served as a catalyst for the coming war.
The Aftermath of Ser Harwin Strong’s Death
The death of Ser Harwin Strong had a profound impact on Rhaenyra Targaryen. She was devastated by the loss of her lover and the father of her children (in her heart, if not legally). Harwin’s death served as a stark reminder of the dangers she faced and the lengths her enemies would go to in order to undermine her claim to the Iron Throne. The loss of Harwin further hardened Rhaenyra’s resolve and fueled her determination to protect her children and secure her rightful place as Queen.
The death of Harwin also had significant political ramifications. It removed a key supporter of Rhaenyra from the equation and strengthened the position of Alicent Hightower and her faction. The Hightowers were now in a stronger position to challenge Rhaenyra’s succession and install Aegon II Targaryen, Alicent’s eldest son, as the heir to the Iron Throne. The tragic story of what happens to Ser Harwin Strong directly contributed to the escalating tensions that led to the Dance of the Dragons.
The Legacy of ‘Breakbones’
Despite his relatively short time on screen, Ser Harwin Strong left a lasting impression on the ‘House of the Dragon’ narrative. He was a complex and compelling character, torn between his duty to his family and his love for Rhaenyra Targaryen. His tragic death served as a pivotal moment in the series, accelerating the descent into civil war. While what happens to Ser Harwin Strong is a dark chapter, his memory endures as a reminder of the human cost of political ambition and the devastating consequences of unchecked power.
Harwin’s legacy also lives on through Rhaenyra’s sons, who, regardless of their true parentage, were raised as Targaryens and played significant roles in the Dance of the Dragons. The question of their legitimacy remained a point of contention throughout the war, highlighting the lasting impact of Harwin’s relationship with Rhaenyra. The story of what happens to Ser Harwin Strong, therefore, continues to resonate throughout the Targaryen dynasty.
Conclusion
In conclusion, what happens to Ser Harwin Strong is a tragic tale of love, duty, and political intrigue. His death, orchestrated by his own brother Larys, served as a catalyst for the Dance of the Dragons and had a profound impact on the Targaryen dynasty. Harwin’s story serves as a reminder of the dangers of power and the devastating consequences of unchecked ambition. His legacy lives on through Rhaenyra’s sons and the enduring question of their true parentage, solidifying his place as a significant, albeit tragic, figure in the history of Westeros. [See also: The Targaryen Family Tree Explained] [See also: The Dance of the Dragons: A Comprehensive Overview]
