King Aerys I Targaryen was the second son of King Daeron II Targaryen. His older brother, Baelor Targaryen, was killed in the Tournament of Ashes, so Aerys ascended the throne upon the death of his father, Daeron II Targaryen, who was killed by the Spring Scourge of 209.
Aerys shared his father's love of books and, unlike his two brothers, Baelor and Maekar, was not a warrior. He had a scruffy appearance, immersed in his reading. Like his father, he wore the elaborate crown of King Aegon IV Targaryen.