Daemon Targaryen and the First Blackfyre Rebellion: A Turbulent Chapter

Daemon Targaryen (Section 1)

The First Blackfyre Rebellion (Section 2)

The Battle of Redgrass Field (Section 3)

Daemon Targaryen

Daemon Targaryen is a notable character in the A Song of Ice and Fire universe (Martin, 2011). He features prominently in the prequel novella The Rogue Prince and the epic historical account Fire and Blood (Martin, 1999). Daemon was the younger brother of King Viserys I Targaryen and a renowned figure for his ambition, martial prowess, and rebellious spirit. His role in the Targaryen civil war, known as the Dance of the Dragons (also known as the Wars of the Dragon), was significant as he was a skilled dragonrider with his dragon being Caraxes. He also commanded controversial actions and relationships, notably his marriage to Rhaenyra Targaryen, the designated heir to the throne.

The First Blackfyre Rebellion

The First Blackfyre Rebellion took place in 193 AC After Conquest, initiated by Daemon Blackfyre (Section 2.1), a legitimized bastard of King Aegon IV Targaryen. Daemon claimed the throne against his half-brother King Daeron II Targaryen, whose lineage was seen as legitimate. This conflict was fueled by dissatisfaction among the nobility and supporters of the Blackfyre line who believed Daemon had a legitimate claim due to his royal blood (Eades, 2022). The rebellion began with Daemon landing in Westeros with support from several noble houses but faced significant resistance from Daeron II and his loyalists. This opposition culminated in the Battle of Redgrass Field, where Daemon and the rebellion were decisively defeated, solidifying Daeron II's rule (Pollack, 2022).

The Battle of Redgrass Field

The Battle of Redgrass Field (Section 3.1) marked the end of the war. Despite an initial advantage against Ser Gwayne Corbray and Prince Maekar, Daemon and his sons Aegon and Aemon were killed by a surprise volley of arrows from the Ravens Teeth of Brynden Rivers. The sudden defeat dispersed the rebel army, effectively ending the First Blackfyre Rebellion. After Daemon's death, Aegor Rivers, better known as Bittersteel, took control of the House Blackfyre and the Blackfyre sword, founding the Golden Company in Essos, leading further Blackfyre uprisings that would challenge the Targaryen hold on the throne (North, 2022).

Daemon Blackfyre vs. Ser Gwayne Corbray at the Battle of Redgrass Field

At the Battle of Redgrass Field, Daemon Blackfyre faced off against the formidable Ser Gwayne Corbray, who was known as the Green Knight. Despite Daemon's initial advantage, the outcome was decided by a surprise attack, resulting in his death (North, 2022). This battle is seen as a major turning point that ended the rebellion and solidified Daeron II's rule (Pollack, 2022).

References

Fire and Blood / George R.R. Martin (1999) The Rogue Prince / George R.R. Martin (2011) Green Knight Golden Company

Tags

Daemon Targaryen, Blackfyre Rebellion, Dance of the Dragons