Simon Strong

[FP1997]

Simon Strong - House of the Dragon | Sky Community

• Status: Knight of House Strong, castellan of Harrenhal

• Traits: Pragmatic, astute, vulnerable

• Famous Quote: "I, Ser Simon Strong, castellan of Harrenhal, swear fealty to Rhaenyra of House Targaryen, the First of Her Name. I swear this by the Old Gods, and the New"

Ser Simon Strong, a knight of House Strong, emerges as a significant figure during the turbulent times of the Dance of the Dragons. As the castellan of Harrenhal, Ser Simon plays a crucial role in the shifting allegiances and political machinations that define this bloody civil war.

Family and Lineage

Ser Simon Strong is deeply embedded within the complex web of House Strong. He is the uncle of the late Lord Lyonel Strong and the granduncle of the infamous Larys Strong and the valiant Harwin Strong. The Strong family, known for its connections to both wisdom and intrigue, occupies a prominent position in the political landscape of Westeros.

The Arrival of Daemon Targaryen

The arrival of Prince Daemon Targaryen and his fearsome dragon, Caraxes, at Harrenhal is a pivotal moment in Ser Simon's story. Daemon, representing the Blacks in the Dance of the Dragons, seeks to claim the strategic stronghold of Harrenhal for Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen. Faced with the undeniable power of Daemon and his dragon, Ser Simon makes a pragmatic decision: he bends the knee and declares his allegiance to Rhaenyra.

This submission is not without its complexities. Ser Simon invites Daemon to dine with him, a gesture aimed at cementing his loyalty and fostering trust. The dinner is laden with tension, as Daemon, ever cautious, refuses to touch his plate. Ser Simon, perhaps sensing Daemon's suspicions, assures him that the food is not poisoned and that he is truly welcome within the castle walls.

The conversation between Ser Simon and Daemon Targaryen delves into the murky waters of family loyalty and political survival. Daemon questions Simon's swift submission, given that the lord of House Strong has declared for King Aegon II, Rhaenyra's rival. In response, Simon brands his great-nephew Larys Strong a scourge on their family, vehemently condemning him for his alleged role in the deaths of his father and brother. The fire that claimed their lives is shrouded in suspicion, and Simon makes it clear that he believes Larys orchestrated the tragedy to seize lordship of Harrenhal.

This accusation underscores the fractious nature of House Strong during this period. Ser Simon's disdain for Larys reveals deep familial rifts and highlights the treacherous environment in which the Strongs operate. By aligning with Daemon and the Blacks, Ser Simon seeks not only to survive but also to reclaim some semblance of honor for his house.

Who plays Ser Simon Strong?

• Simon Strong is portrayed by Simon Russell Beale, an actor, known for The Outfit, Operation Finale and Mary & George.