The Hidden Bastard Daughters of Westeros: A Closer Look
In the intricate tapestry of Westeros, many of its legendary figures have been born under unconventional circumstances. Among the known bastards, the daughters stand out for their unique journeys and significant roles in the narrative. From the famous Myrcella Baratheon to the lesser-known Nettles, these daughters have woven threads of intrigue and drama into the fabric of Westerosi history.
Myrcella Baratheon: The Essentially Bastard
Yes, there is one certainly recognized bastard daughter of Westeros in Myrcella Baratheon. Myrcella is the daughter of Cersei Lannister and Jaime Lannister, making her technically a bastard. Such a revelation brings to light the complex and often amoral behavior of some of the noble houses, contrasting with the traditionally pure bloodlines of Westeros.
Bastard Daughters of Dorne
Another group of notable bastards hails from Dorne, under the rule of Oberyn Martell. In the books, Oberyn had each of his daughters with different women, which enriches the narrative with diverse personalities. However, in the show, the story was simplified to introduce three daughters: Mya Stone, the Sand Snakes, and Ellaria Sand.
The Sand Snakes are particularly prominent. These eight bastards, daughter of Ellaria and Oberyn Martell, are well-known for their significant roles in Dornish politics. Raised as Oberyn's daughters, they stand tall as powerful figures in the political landscape of Dorne and have significantly contributed to the power dynamics in Westeros.
Other Notable Bastard Daughters
In the realm of Westeros, a few other notable bastards deserve mention:
Shiera Seastar
One of the Great Bastards of Aegon IV, Shiera Seastar plays a vital role in the history of the Targaryens and the Blackfyre Rebellion. Her involvement in these pivotal historical moments adds another layer of complexity to Westeros's turbulent past, making her story one of intrigue and strategic significance.
Nettles: The Dragonrider Mystery
Nettles, also known as Netty, is a fascinating figure. This dragonrider, who is not definitively a Targaryen, managed to tame a dragon named Sheepstealer. She did so by feeding the dragon sheep every morning, a dedication that earned her the title and the dragon. However, her subsequent life took a dramatic turn. Nettles became a concubine to a Targaryen prince, leading to her branding as a traitor. She ultimately flew off into the bay, leaving behind her dragon, and her fate remains a mystery.
Despite the uncertainty of Nettles's ultimate fate, the possibility of Sheepstealer’s return is a thrilling notion that endures in the Westerosi annals. Even if Nettles died of old age, the legend of Sheepstealer and the mystery surrounding her disappearance continue to captivate fans and scholars alike.
The Princess and The Queen: A Special Bastard Girl
Finally, the Princess and the Queen introduces another notable bastard girl, Netta (alias Nettles), who is the daughter of Tobber Lannister. She rose to prominence as a dragonrider and managed to tame a dragon, despite not being a Targaryen. Nettles’s story is full of mystery and adventure, adding depth and intrigue to the narrative.
The journey of these bastard daughters of Westeros not only highlights the complexities of bloodlines and power struggles but also defy the conventional norms and expectations imposed by the rigidly structured society of Westeros. These stories of subversions and the underdogs stirring the pot contribute to the rich and expansive narrative of the Seven Kingdoms.