The latest episode of House of the Dragon Season 2 has sparked a firestorm of discussion and fan theories about the show’s unfolding narrative. Among the characters generating significant buzz is the enigmatic newcomer, Ulf the White. His arrival has left viewers with a burning question: who exactly is Ulf the White, and how, if at all, is he connected to the Targaryen lineage, particularly figures like Baelon and Daemon?
Here is everything you need to know about House of the Dragon’s Ulf the White and his importance in the show.
Who is Ulf the White in House of the Dragon Season 2?
Ulf the White, played by Tom Bennet, is one of the Dragonseeds in George R.R. Martin’s Fire & Blood, and House of the Dragon, similar to Hugh Hammer.
Ulf is introduced in a tavern scene that’s abruptly interrupted by the arrival of King Aegon. Before the royal entrance, Ulf makes a startling claim, stating that he is the illegitimate son of Baelon the Brave.
For past reference, Baelon, the heir to the former king, Jaehaerys the Conciliator, died unexpectedly from a ruptured internal ailment. But if Ulf’s claims were to be found true, he’d be the half-brother of Viserys and Daemon Targaryen, a grandson to King Jaehaerys, and an uncle to Viseyrs’ children, Rhaenyra, Aegon II, and others.
What happens to Ulf the White during Dance of the Dragons?
Ulf initially sided with the Blacks, going on to become a dragon rider.
Starting as a simple soldier, Ulf spotted an opportunity when Prince Jacaerys Velaryon advertised for fresh Dragonriders. His link to the Targaryens, genuine or imagined, enabled him to claim the powerful dragon Silverwing. He fought heroically with Jacaerys in the Battle of the Gullet.
Ulf capitalized on his accomplishment and began calling himself “Ulf White,” a name that hinted at potential Targaryen lineage. Queen Rhaenyra, eager for supporters, honored him with a knighthood. She also promised him territory in Driftmark. However, Ulf’s loyalty was ephemeral. Sent with Hugh Hammer to secure the town of Tumbleton, the pair instead switched to the opposing Greens.
According to the Radio Times, their duplicity backfired during the Second Battle of Tumbleton. Ulf, who was conveniently absent from the conflict, survived, whilst Hugh died. Ulf, encouraged by his narrow escape, dreamed of taking the Iron Throne for himself. But, his actions ultimately led to his demise.
How does Ulf the White die in the book Fire & Blood?
In the book, Fire & Blood, Ulf the White got poisoned by Sen Hobert Hightower.
After Hammer’s death, Ulf desired the throne for himself. The Caltrop Ser Hobert Hightower pretended to agree with Ulf’s claims and brought two casks of wine. The latter was uncertain of Hobert and requested him to try the wine he offered him.
Hobert took a glass of wine, drank it all, admired the flavor, and asked for another. Ulf was satisfied, drank three glasses, and fell asleep. Subsequently, he died quietly an hour later as a mild poison was mixed with the wine.
