30 Sec Answer
Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen are related as aunt and nephew, through their father Rhaegar Targaryen.
Introduction
The hugely popular show Game of Thrones has a vast array of characters with complicated family histories and intricate relationships. One of the more compelling pairings is between Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen. Their relationship progresses from acquaintances to close friends, and then to an unexpected romantic connection – leading many viewers to question exactly how they’re related. In this article we will explore the answer to that question in detail.
The History Of House Targaryen
House Targaryen is one of the great houses in Westeros, having ruled over the Seven Kingdoms for centuries before being deposed by Robert Baratheon’s Rebellion in Season 1. At its head is Aerys II, also known as “The Mad King”, who had three children; two sons, Rhaegar and Viserys, and a daughter Daenerys. All three were believed to have died during the rebellion but unbeknownst to all except a few select people, Rhaegar survived and fled with his family across the Narrow Sea to Essos.
Rhaegar’s Marriage & Lyanna Stark
Rhaegar was married to Elia Martell at the time of Robert’s Rebellion, but he soon fell in love with another woman – Lyanna Stark. In order to be together, Rhaegar annulled his marriage with Elia and abducted Lyanna, sparking off Robert’s Rebellion in the process. During their journey, Rhaegar impregnated Lyanna with his child – later revealed to be none other than Jon Snow himself. Unfortunately, both parents passed away shortly after Jon was born, leaving him with no knowledge of his heritage until much later on in life.
Who Are Jon Snow’s Parents?
At first it was thought that Ned Stark had fathered Jon out of wedlock with an unknown woman – something which caused some tension between him and his wife Catelyn Stark – however the truth was eventually revealed by Bran Stark via visions from the Three-Eyed Raven. As we now know, Jon Snow’s parents are actually Rhaegar Targaryen and Lyanna Stark – making him half-Targaryen and half-Stark.
How Is Jon Related To Daenerys?
With the revelation of Jon Snow’s parentage comes the realization that he is closely related to Daenerys Targaryen – who just so happens to be his Aunt! Since Daenerys is Rhaegar’s sister, she is also the maternal aunt of Jon Snow. This means that when they get together in season 8 (spoilers!), they are technically committing incest according to Westerosi law – though luckily they are unaware of their familial connection at this point in time!
Conclusion
The pairing of Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen is one of the most interesting plot points in Game of Thrones due to its complex history and implications for both characters. We now know that these two powerful leaders are actually related as uncle/aunt and nephew – though their lack of knowledge about their shared lineage helps keep things exciting! Hopefully future episodes will provide us with even more answers about this fascinating duo…