Like all of his characters, these women are gray, with different approaches to motherhood and morality.

Alicent Hightower is no different, but can we definitively say that she’s a bad mother?

When compared to Rhaenyra, who comes out on top?

Olivia Cooke as Alicent Hightower in a poster for House of the Dragon Season 2

Image via HBO

Is that even a fair comparison?

Ultimately, exploring Alicent’s motivations inHouse of the Dragonrevealssomeone far more complex.

This is a clear example of marital rape when the power dynamics of the situation are taken into consideration.

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The reign of House Targaryen begins with this prequel to the popular HBO seriesGame of Thrones.Based on George R.R. Martin’sFire & Blood,House of the Dragonis set nearly 200 years beforeGame of Thrones, telling the story of the Targaryen civil war with King Viserys.

She develops a protective streak, particularly toward Helaena,in whose innocence Alicent likely sees her younger self.

Wait, Viserys had HOW many children?

Alicent’sactions as a mother reflect the turmoil that exists inside her.

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However, if this thread is pulled at, it’s revealed that both women lived entirely different lives.

Alicent Is Not a Good Mother, But Whose Fault is That?

House of the Dragonis available to stream on Max in the U.S., with new episodes airing Sundays.

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Alicent Hightower and Helaena Targaryen surrounded by angry people

Image via HBO

Emma D’arcy as Rhaenyra, Paddy Considine as Viserys & Tom Glynn-Carney as Aegon II in a custom image for House of the Dragon

House of the Dragon