Rhaenyra Targaryen claimed the throne in House of the Dragon Season 3 Episode 2, but her problems are far from over. In the latest episode, the new queen grapples with the weight of her responsibilities. Her confidence has visibly faltered, to the point that she even finds herself seeking Alicent Hightower’s approval. Ryan Condal, Emma D’Arcy and Olivia Cooke discussed the reason Rhaenyra reacted this way in the “Inside the Episode” for episode 3.
Quick read:
- Rhaenyra Targaryen lets her guard down with Alicent Hightower.
- Emma D’Arcy spoke up about the reason Rhaenyra wants Alicent’s approval.
- Rhaenyra might be seriously considering Alice’s advice.
Emma D’Arcy on why Rhaenyra is seeking Alicent’s approval in House of the Dragon Season 3
After Alicent failed to keep her promise to hand over Aegon to Rhaenyra, the latter confined the queen dowager at the Red Keep. In episode 3, when Alicent comes to the queen with a request, Rhaenyra not only grants it but also seems to seek her approval. “How did you bear it?” she asks Alicent, as her confident composure slips just a little to show exactly how scared she is feeling.
Co-creator and showrunner Ryan Condal said, “Alicent is now Rhaenyra’s prisoner. But Alicent is, unlike in previous iterations of the relationship, completely powerless.” And yet in this scene, Alicent seems to be the one yielding power.
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Actress Emma D’Arcy explained, “Rhaenyra is kind of seeking the approval of her prisoner… As though you’ve locked up your conscience in the castle, and you come in periodically to sort of check in and see how they think you’re doing.” Alicent’s advice is simple: Rhaenyra may not be able to remain true to herself if she chooses to rule. However, the queen is equally resolute that she will not become someone she is not to wear the crown.
Olivia Cooke on Rhaenyra’s resolve to stay true to herself
The episode shows Rhanyra’s point-of-view as the new ruler who is desperately trying to stay true to herself while also balancing her newfound duties. There is clearly a fine line that she is walking. Olivia Cooke reflected on this in the “Inside the Episode” segment.
Cooke said, “Rhaenyra, at that point, is living in a fantasy where she thinks that part of herself isn’t gonna be cauterized by the decisions that she has to make.” By the end of the episode, Rhaenyra seems to have an epiphany. She watches the banners of the previous rulers burn in a massive bonfire with a determined look on her face.
