What House Did They Burn In The Green Council

What House Did They Burn in the Green Council? A Look at the Targaryen Civil War

The scene in House of the Dragon depicting the Green Council's fiery decision is one of the most shocking and impactful moments of the series. The burning of a house signifies not just the destruction of a building, but the annihilation of a lineage, a symbol of power consumed by ambition. This article delves into the specifics of which house's ancestral home was destroyed and the symbolic weight of this act.

Spoiler Alert: This article contains significant spoilers for House of the Dragon. Proceed with caution if you haven't seen the episode.

The house that was burned during the Green Council's tumultuous meeting was House Strong. Specifically, it was the ancestral seat of Lord Lyonel Strong and his sons, Harwin and Larys. The burning wasn't merely a random act of violence; it was a calculated move by Otto Hightower to eliminate a significant threat to his own power and the claim of Aegon II Targaryen.

Why House Strong?

The destruction of House Strong's ancestral home served several crucial purposes within the context of the story:

• Eliminating a Powerful Rival: Lord Lyonel Strong held a significant position as Hand of the King. His loyalty, or lack thereof, was a crucial variable in the succession crisis. By eliminating him and his sons, the Greens neutralized a potential powerful opponent.

• Silencing Whispers: The widespread rumour of Harwin Strong being the true father of Rhaenyra Targaryen's sons posed a serious threat to Aegon II's claim. His death, along with his father's, effectively silenced those whispers.

• Consolidating Power: The act demonstrated the ruthless efficiency of the Green Council and sent a stark warning to any other potential rivals. It underscored the lengths they were willing to go to secure their victory. This display of power cemented Otto Hightower's position as the true power behind the throne.

• Symbolic Significance: The burning of a house is a potent symbol of the eradication of a legacy. The Strong family, with its influence and connections, was effectively erased from the equation, paving the way for the Greens to consolidate their hold on the Iron Throne.

The Aftermath and Lasting Impact

The destruction of House Strong's home was not just a physical act; it had profound implications for the unfolding Targaryen civil war:

• Shift in Power Dynamics: The elimination of the Strong family significantly shifted the balance of power in King's Landing and beyond.

• Fueling the Dance of Dragons: The violent act further exacerbated tensions and fueled the flames of the Targaryen civil war. It served as a catalyst for further violence and bloodshed.

• Long-Term Consequences: The destruction of House Strong left a void in Westerosi politics, leading to unforeseen consequences and strategic shifts throughout the conflict.

In conclusion, the burning of House Strong's home in the Green Council was a pivotal moment in House of the Dragon. It was a calculated act of violence that served multiple purposes—eliminating rivals, silencing dissent, consolidating power, and sending a powerful message. The symbolic weight of this act reverberated throughout the series, highlighting the brutal nature of the Targaryen civil war and the lengths to which those seeking power were willing to go.