HBO’s Game of Thrones is renowned for its rich narrative, epic battles, and intriguing prophecies. One of the most pivotal is The Prince That Was Promised prophecy.
The Prince That Was Promised prophecy, featured in both Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon, foretells the coming of a hero destined to defeat the White Walkers and save the world.
The prophecy’s language is gender-neutral, allowing both Daenerys Targaryen and Jon Snow to be considered potential fulfillers.
Each character embodies aspects of the prophecy, suggesting they could collectively fulfill the role of the Prince or Princess That Was Promised.
This prophecy, also known as the Song of Ice and Fire, is central to both shows. But what exactly does this prophecy entail? And do we ever discover who it truly refers to? Let’s delve into both series to uncover the answers.
Understanding The Prince That Was Promised Prophecy
The prophecy is first introduced in the second season of Game of Thrones. At Dragonstone, Melisandre performs a ritual for the Lord of Light, convinced that Stannis Baratheon is the Prince That Was Promised.
The prophecy describes a catastrophic winter with the dead rising in the north. A hero, also referred to as Azor Ahai, is prophesied to vanquish this menace and save the world.
Initially, the hero’s identity is a mystery, but the threat of the White Walkers is evident from the beginning.
Gender Neutrality of the Prophecy
Melisandre later discusses the prophecy with Daenerys Targaryen. Missandei clarifies that in High Valyrian, the term is gender-neutral, translating to “The Prince or Princess That Was Promised”. This makes Daenerys a plausible candidate.
Aegon’s Prophetic Dream
The prophecy also holds significance in House of the Dragon. King Viserys Targaryen shares a secret with Rhaenyra Targaryen about Aegon the Conqueror’s prophetic dream concerning the White Walkers and the hero destined to save the world.
Aegon believed a Targaryen must sit on the Iron Throne to unite the realm against this looming threat, referring to his dream as “The Song of Ice and Fire”.
Unraveling the Identity of The Prince That Was Promised
Despite the Battle of Winterfell’s outcome, the answer remains ambiguous. Both Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen have strong claims to the title of the Prince or Princess That Was Promised.
Daenerys brought dragons to life from stone and was “reborn” amidst salt and smoke, aligning with many elements of the prophecy. Jon, a recognized Targaryen and wielder of Valyrian steel, played a crucial role in uniting the Seven Kingdoms and leading the battle against the White Walkers.
It seems that together, Jon and Daenerys personify The Prince or Princess That Was Promised by sharing the prophecy’s signs and ultimately defeating the White Walkers.
Final Thoughts
Both Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon emphasize the prophecy of The Prince That Was Promised. While the true identity remains open to interpretation, the combined efforts of Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen are pivotal to fulfilling this ancient prophecy.
