Harwin Strong: The Unsung Hero of House of the Dragon?

HBO’s House of the Dragon captivated audiences with its intricate plot, compelling characters, and stunning visuals. Among the many players vying for power in Westeros, one character stood out for his quiet strength, loyalty, and ultimately, tragic fate: Ser Harwin Strong. Often referred to as ‘Breakbones’ due to his formidable strength and prowess in battle, Harwin’s role extended far beyond mere brute force. This article delves into the significance of Harwin Strong within the narrative, exploring his relationships, his impact on the Targaryen dynasty, and the legacy he leaves behind.

The Introduction of Harwin Strong

Harwin Strong first appears as a member of the City Watch of King’s Landing, eventually rising to the rank of Captain. He is the eldest son of Lyonel Strong, the Master of Laws and later Hand to King Viserys I Targaryen. From the outset, Harwin is portrayed as a man of integrity and duty, traits that quickly set him apart from the more ambitious and ruthless figures in the court. His physical presence is imposing, but his demeanor is generally calm and measured, reflecting a sense of control and discipline.

Harwin and Rhaenyra Targaryen: A Forbidden Love

The core of Harwin Strong’s importance lies in his relationship with Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen. As the heir apparent to the Iron Throne, Rhaenyra faces immense pressure to secure her claim and produce legitimate heirs. However, her marriage to Laenor Velaryon proves to be a political alliance lacking genuine affection. It is within this context that Rhaenyra and Harwin Strong develop a deep and passionate connection.

Their relationship becomes a subject of whispers and speculation within the Red Keep. While Rhaenyra is legally married, it’s widely believed that Harwin Strong is the true father of her sons, Jacaerys, Lucerys, and Joffrey Velaryon. This secret becomes a dangerous liability, threatening Rhaenyra’s legitimacy and potentially destabilizing the entire kingdom. The implications of this affair are profound, setting the stage for future conflicts and contributing significantly to the Dance of the Dragons. The question of paternity casts a long shadow over the Targaryen succession. The strong bond between Rhaenyra and Harwin Strong contrasted with the political marriage she maintained highlights the complexities of duty versus desire in a world of power and intrigue.

Harwin’s Loyalty and Sacrifice

Despite the risks involved, Harwin Strong remains fiercely loyal to Rhaenyra. He acts as her protector and confidant, offering unwavering support during a time when she faces numerous challenges. His love for her is evident in his actions, and he willingly puts himself in harm’s way to safeguard her and her children. This loyalty ultimately leads to his tragic demise. When rumors of his paternity of Rhaenyra’s children become too widespread to ignore, Harwin Strong is sent back to Harrenhal, the Strong family seat. There, he is murdered in a fire orchestrated by his younger brother, Larys Strong, acting on behalf of Queen Alicent Hightower. His death serves as a devastating blow to Rhaenyra and marks a significant escalation in the brewing conflict between the Greens and the Blacks. [See also: The Dance of the Dragons: A Targaryen Civil War]

The Impact of Harwin Strong’s Death

The death of Harwin Strong has far-reaching consequences. It not only removes a key ally and protector from Rhaenyra’s side but also fuels her resentment towards Alicent Hightower and her faction. The circumstances surrounding his death are particularly cruel, highlighting the ruthlessness of the power players in Westeros. Rhaenyra, grieving and enraged, becomes even more determined to secure her claim to the Iron Throne, setting the stage for the Dance of the Dragons. The loss of Harwin Strong is a turning point in the narrative, accelerating the descent into civil war. His absence leaves a void in Rhaenyra’s life, both personally and politically, and his death becomes a rallying cry for those who support her cause.

The Legacy of Harwin Strong

While Harwin Strong‘s time on screen may have been relatively brief, his impact on the story of House of the Dragon is undeniable. He represents a rare instance of genuine love and loyalty in a world dominated by ambition and betrayal. His relationship with Rhaenyra, though controversial, adds depth and complexity to her character, humanizing her in a way that few other relationships could. The legacy of Harwin Strong is inextricably linked to the paternity of Rhaenyra’s sons. Whether they are acknowledged as true Targaryens or forever branded as bastards, their existence shapes the course of Westerosi history. The question of their legitimacy becomes a central point of contention in the Dance of the Dragons, influencing alliances, betrayals, and ultimately, the fate of the Targaryen dynasty.

Analyzing Harwin’s Character: More Than Just ‘Breakbones’

Harwin Strong is often reduced to his nickname, ‘Breakbones,’ which emphasizes his physical strength. However, a closer examination reveals a more nuanced character. He is depicted as a man of honor, integrity, and deep empathy. His willingness to risk everything for Rhaenyra demonstrates a profound capacity for love and selflessness. Unlike many other characters in House of the Dragon, Harwin Strong is not driven by ambition or a thirst for power. His motivations are rooted in his genuine affection for Rhaenyra and his desire to protect her and her children. This makes him a refreshing contrast to the more Machiavellian figures who populate the court, and it is perhaps why his death is felt so keenly by the audience.

The Paternity Debate: Jacaerys, Lucerys, and Joffrey

The question of whether Harwin Strong is the father of Rhaenyra’s sons is a central point of contention in the series. While the show never explicitly confirms it, the implication is strong. The physical characteristics of Jacaerys, Lucerys, and Joffrey – their brown hair and eyes – stand in stark contrast to the silver hair and violet eyes of the Targaryens and Velaryons. This visual cue, combined with the rumors circulating within the court, strongly suggests that Harwin Strong is indeed their father. The debate over their paternity has significant political implications. If they are proven to be bastards, their claim to the Iron Throne would be severely weakened, potentially paving the way for Aegon II Targaryen to ascend to power. This uncertainty fuels the conflict between the Greens and the Blacks and contributes to the overall instability of the kingdom.

Harwin Strong and the Future of the Targaryen Dynasty

Despite his relatively short lifespan, Harwin Strong plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the Targaryen dynasty. His relationship with Rhaenyra and the children he allegedly fathered have a lasting impact on the political landscape of Westeros. The Dance of the Dragons is, in many ways, a direct consequence of the questions surrounding their legitimacy. The conflict between Rhaenyra and Aegon II is fueled by their competing claims to the Iron Throne, and the paternity of Rhaenyra’s sons is a key factor in determining who has the stronger claim. Even after his death, Harwin Strong‘s influence continues to be felt throughout the series. His memory serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of power and the devastating consequences of love and loyalty in a world of political intrigue.

Conclusion: Remembering Harwin Strong

In conclusion, Harwin Strong is more than just a supporting character in House of the Dragon. He is a symbol of loyalty, sacrifice, and genuine love in a world filled with ambition and betrayal. His relationship with Rhaenyra and the question of his paternity of her sons have profound implications for the Targaryen dynasty and the future of Westeros. While his life was tragically cut short, his legacy lives on, reminding us of the human cost of power and the enduring power of love and loyalty. Ser Harwin Strong will be remembered as a man who chose love and duty above all else, even at the cost of his own life. His actions resonated throughout the realm, proving that even seemingly minor characters can play pivotal roles in the grand tapestry of Westeros. The story of Harwin Strong serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the dangers of forbidden love and the ruthless nature of political maneuvering. His tragic end underscores the high stakes of the game of thrones and the devastating consequences of choosing love over power. Harwin Strong, though gone, remains a vital piece of the House of the Dragon puzzle. The implications of his actions and the questions he raises continue to shape the narrative, ensuring that his memory will endure long after the flames of Harrenhal have died down. He was truly an unsung hero. It’s important to remember Harwin Strong when discussing this show.