Hodor is one of the most mysterious and beloved characters in Game of Thrones. Though he only ever says one word – “Hodor” – he plays an important role in Bran Stark’s story. Fans have long speculated about Hodor’s origins and backstory. One popular theory is that Hodor may actually be part Targaryen. In this article, we’ll explore the evidence for and against this theory.
The Case For Hodor Being a Targaryen
Here are some reasons why Hodor could have Targaryen ancestry:
His size and strength
Hodor is described as being almost seven feet tall and very strong. Targaryens often possessed exceptional strength and physical abilities. For example, Aegon the Conqueror was incredibly tall and powerful. Hodor’s immense stature could be a sign of Targaryen blood.
His fair hair
Many Targaryens had distinctive silver-blonde or platinum hair. Hodor has pale blond hair which could indicate Targaryen lineage. However, blond hair isn’t unique to the Targaryens so this alone isn’t strong proof.
Warging abilities
Some Targaryens were known to have prophetic visions and abilities to bond with dragons. Hodor appears to have some magical warging skills that allow Bran Stark to control his mind and body. This supernatural gift could come from having dragon blood.
Mad King Aerys’ activities
There’s speculation that Mad King Aerys Targaryen had an interest in Hodor’s mother or grandmother. As a result, Hodor may be a product of a secret Targaryen lineage. However, this is unconfirmed and purely theoretical.
The Case Against Hodor Being a Targaryen
However, there are also several reasons why Hodor is unlikely to have Targaryen descent:
His simple-mindedness
Most Targaryens displayed keen intelligence and cunning even if they sometimes succumbed to madness. But Hodor has a very limited vocabulary and childlike intellect. This seems at odds with Targaryen ancestry.
His commoner background
Hodor is described as a simple stableboy at Winterfell. He comes from humble, peasant origins which doesn’t match the high-born status of the Targaryens. However, if he was the result of a secret Targaryen affair, his status could be obscured.
Lack of dragon dreams/bonding
There are no accounts of Hodor having prophetic dreams of dragons or showing any abilities to bond with dragons like other Targaryens. His magical talents seem limited to warging.
No definitive proof
There is no definitive evidence like birth records or family trees confirming Hodor as part Targaryen. Any link is speculative without hard documentation.
Conclusion
In the end, there are credible reasons why Hodor could potentially have some Targaryen ancestry. His size, strength, hair color, and magical talents fit with the Targaryen traits. However, his simple-mindedness and commoner background make a Targaryen lineage seem unlikely. Mad King Aerys’ possible interest in his mother or grandmother provides an avenue for a secret Targaryen connection but there is no proof. While fun to theorize about, there is no conclusive evidence at this point to confirm Hodor as part Targaryen. The mystery of his origins and powers remains. But whether high-born or common, Hodor remains a beloved and crucial part of Bran Starks’ journey in the Song of Ice and Fire saga.
References
Hodor’s Possible Targaryen Descent
| Evidence For | Evidence Against |
|---|---|
| Large stature and strength | Simple-mindedness |
| Pale blond hair | Commoner background |
| Warging abilities | No dragon dreams/bonding |
| Mad King’s interest in his female ancestors | No definitive proof in family trees/records |
Key Targaryen Traits
| Physical Traits | Mental/Magical Traits |
|---|---|
| Silver-blonde/platinum hair | Visions/dragon dreams |
| Tall stature | Wisdom and cunning |
| Physical strength/prowess | Dragon bonding/warging |
| Purple eyes | Prophetic abilities |
Hodor’s Background
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Winterfell, simple stableboy |
| Vocabulary | Only says “hodor” |
| Physicality | 7ft tall, very strong |
| Magical abilities | Warging, no dragon bonding |
| Intellect | Simple, childlike |