The Eight Kingdoms Within Seven Kingdoms: A Misleading but Enduring Term
The phrase 'Seven Kingdoms' in the context of Westeros and its acclaimed series, A Song of Ice and Fire and its adaptation, Game of Thrones, can be a bit misleading. This article explores the origins and historical context that have led to this term, delving into the complexities and nuances of the political landscape of Westeros.
The Original Seven Kingdoms and Aegon the Conqueror
The realm of Westeros is officially referred to as the Seven Kingdoms because, at the time of the Conquest, there were indeed seven kings. However, this term might be more traditional than accurate, given the historical and political dynamics that have shaped the region over the centuries.
Aegon Targaryen, the first Targaryen king, took control in the late era of the realm, leading to the unity and consolidation of these seven realms under his rule. It's essential to understand the context at the time of Aegon’s conquest. Six kings and the princess of Dorne, who was also considered a king in their culture, made up these seven regions. This period, known as the "age of one hundred kingdoms," had seen numerous shifts in power and control.
Political Boundaries and Historical Shifts
The reason the Seven Kingdoms are called such is because at the time of Aegon's landing, there were seven official political divisions. However, political boundaries are fluid, and the term 'Seven Kingdoms' has persisted as a traditional reference.
The Riverlands, despite their central position, often found themselves being conquered by neighboring realms. The region was primarily under the control of the Iron Islands, despite later Ironmen's disdain for 'greenlands.' This central position and lack of natural barriers made the Riverlands a frequent target for conquests. When Aegon conquered Westeros, he eliminated the king of the Isles and Rivers and extinguished his line. The Tullys then overthrew the Ironmen and allied with the Targaryens, leading to the Targaryens granting them the honor of being Lord Paramount of the Riverlands.
The Crownlands: The Eighth Region
The term 'Crownlands,' which includes King's Landing and the seat of the Iron Throne, often adds a seventh region to the traditional seven. Scholars and historians sometimes include the Crownlands in discussions about the Seven Kingdoms, highlighting its significance to governance and politics. Despite not being one of the original kingdoms, the Crownlands play a crucial role in the realm's administration and power dynamics.
Additionally, while Dorne remained independent for a significant period, its eventual inclusion as an eighth kingdom means that some sources might count the realm as having eight regions. However, the Crownlands and Dorne's independence make it more accurate to consider the individual regions as kingdoms, albeit under the overarching title of the Seven Kingdoms.
The Why of the Term
Thus, the term 'Seven Kingdoms' is a traditional moniker that reflects the cultural significance and the historical narrative. Though it may be technically accurate to consider the realm as having eight regions, especially after the inclusion of Dorne, the term 'Seven Kingdoms' persists due to its cultural resonance and historical precedent.
Regardless of the precise number of regions, the Seven Kingdoms remain a central concept in the lore of Westeros, symbolizing a unified and once independent political landscape. This enduring term encapsulates the historical and cultural complexity of the realm, making it a fundamental aspect of the narrative of Aegon and his conquests.