Why Jacaerys Velaryon Would Make A Great King In House Of The Dragon

Highlights

Jace Velaryon’s upbringing and dedication make him a strong contender for a great king in House of the Dragon.
His hard work and diplomacy skills set him apart from ill-prepared rulers like Aegon II.
Jace’s kind heart and steely resolve, along with his willingness to listen to counsel, make him a well-rounded potential monarch.

As a seasoned storyteller and connoisseur of royal dramas, I can confidently say that Jacaerys Velaryon is shaping up to be one of the most promising young rulers in Westeros – or any realm for that matter! With his kind heart balanced by a steely resolve, he embodies the perfect blend of compassion and strength, much like the delicate dance between a hawk and its prey.

As the tail end of Season 1 morphed into the full swing of Season 2, there’s no denying that Jacaerys Velaryon has stood out as one of the most competent and dedicated characters in House of the Dragon. Being Rhaenyra Targaryen’s eldest son and heir, I’m next in line for the Iron Throne if the Blacks come out on top. However, it’s not just my birthright that sets me apart among the House of the Dragon characters; I genuinely believe I would make an exceptional king or queen.

While a good ruler is hard to define, as different political situations call for different temperaments and qualities, it’s safe to say that Jace has a good mix of qualities. At heart, he seems to be a good and kind young man, but he also understands that his position often calls for hard stances. Nor does he lack the bravery to enforce his decisions. With this in mind, the following are a few of the many reasons why Jacaerys would make a great king in House of the Dragon.

5 Jace Was Raised With The Knowledge He Would One Day Become King

He Is Prepared To Rule Unlike Someone Like Aegon II Who Was Thrust Upon The Throne

Why Jacaerys Velaryon Would Make A Great King In House Of The Dragon

The upbringing with the intention of ruling is often underestimated as a factor in the success of monarchs. Due to high mortality rates and political turmoil, many rulers in actual history and Westeros found themselves unexpectedly on the throne, and consequently, ill-prepared. To illustrate this, consider two English kings with infamous reputations – Henry VIII and John – neither of whom were the firstborn sons.

In “House of the Dragon,” we find an instance where King Aegon II was not ready for the throne; he never wanted or anticipated ruling. When fate placed him there, however, he demonstrated indecisiveness and a lack of understanding for the duties of rule. On the other hand, Jaecarys Velaryon has been preparing himself his entire life, knowing that, under normal circumstances, he will eventually succeed his mother. This mental readiness and early demonstration of regal grace and dignity set him apart as one who is fit to rule.

4 Jacaerys Has Studied & Trained Hard To Become King

Jace Pushes Himself To Learn As He Knows It’s His Duty

In one of the final episodes of Season 1, Jaquerys is depicted engrossed in High Valyrian studies, evidently frustrated with his current performance and striving for improvement. Furthermore, from various other scenes, it’s clear that he approaches combat training with equal intensity, suggesting a similar level of dedication to his academic pursuits as well.

In casual speech, the sentence could be rephrased as follows: One time, Aemond Targaryen hinted to Criston Cole that it should have been him, not his older brother Aegon, who wore the crown. He definitely made a valid point. A good ruler needs to study history, grasp the laws of the land, and so on. If Jace had dedicated even half as much effort to these subjects as he did in mastering the Targaryen tongue, he’d be well-prepared for kingship.

3 Jacaerys Has A Kind Heart With A Steely Resolve

Like Viserys, Jace Would Want To Be A Good & Kind King, But Will Not Get Pushed Around

Having a kind heart is not essential for a medieval ruler, but for the sake of their subjects, it’s certainly a blessing. However, as was seen during Viserys Targaryen’s reign, the desire to please everyone and be good is simply not possible at all times. A ruler also has to have a hard edge lest they be pushed over, and sometimes tough decisions must be made, even ones that seem harsh.

Luckily, Jacaerys Velaryon exhibits an equally generous heart and firm determination. In tranquil periods, it’s evident that Jace would make a compassionate ruler who seeks no harm, instead fostering an environment where joy and celebration could once again fill the Red Keep. However, in challenging circumstances or when duty calls, he has proven his mettle against formidable adversaries like his stepfather Daemon Targaryen.

2 Jacaerys Listens & Heeds The Counsel Of His Elders

Tywin Lannister Once Said That A Wise King Listens

Tywin Lannister, known for his insightful quotes, showed us what it takes to be a good king during his conversation with King Tommen. According to him, wisdom was the key trait, but to acquire this wisdom, young Tommen was advised to heed the counsel of his advisors, even after he reached adulthood.

In the tenth episode of “House of the Dragon,” young Jacaerys demonstrated respect towards his elders Rhaenyra and Daemon. As conflict approached, he listened attentively to both, learning from them rather than acting impulsively like a typical youth. Instead, he understood that those around him possessed wisdom and followed their instructions faithfully.

1 Jace Has Excellent Diplomacy Skills

Keeping Up Good Relations & Negotiation Skills Are Crucial For A Ruler

Prior to the full-blown Dance of Dragons, Jace was dispatched by his mother as a messenger to forge alliances with the Eyrie and the North. He achieved success in both missions. In addition, during Season 2, he managed to win over the support of the Freys as well.

Diplomacy is vital for kings and queens, particularly in realms prone to division. At the brink of maturity, Jace has shown his aptitude for handling political matters, earning the respect and trust of nobles. It’s not hard to envision him as a king who could bring unity to Westeros, with loyal vassals willing to serve under him.

2024-08-02 00:10