The Impact of Lyanna Stark’s Alleged Betrayal on Westeros

Imagine a scenario in which Lyanna Stark sends a raven to Robert Baratheon expressing that she hates Robert and is in love with Rhaegar Targaryen. What would happen if such a missive were to change the course of history in Westeros? The answer is fundamentally, nothing—absolutely nothing.

Viewing the Individual in Context

The primary reason this changed scenario would have no impact lies in the stark reality of medieval Westeros. Lyanna Stark, as a member of the noble House Stark, is not perceived as an individual but as a representative of her family and the broader feudal system.

No Personal Agency in Noble Marriages

Regardless of whether Lyanna genuinely disliked or hated Robert, her personal feelings hold little weight in the grand scheme of Westerosi society. The concept of romance between spouses is almost non-existent in this patriarchal world. Noble marriages are arranged for political and strategic reasons, and emotional fulfillment is secondary at best.

The Irrelevance of Personal Relationships

Lyanna’s feelings for Rhaegar, much as they may mean something to her, hold no sway over the course of events. Noble dynasties have the responsibility to maintain the status quo, and any personal bonds are subordinated to these larger obligations. When Lyanna and Rhaegar eloped, they discharged their familial duties but failed to fulfill their broader responsibilities to their House and kingdom.

The Feudal Bond and Royal Authority

The narrative shifts dramatically when we consider the actions of Rhaegar Targaryen and his father, King Aerys II. Rhaegar’s interference in negotiations for selfish, romantic reasons tarnished the honor of the Negotiating Houses, highlighting a broader pattern of royal tyranny.

King Aerys’ Tyrannical Actions

Aerys’ wrath, in the wake of his son’s actions, is beyond proportional. Even the willingness of Lyanna to escape with Rhaegar does not mitigate the fact that he ordered the execution of her brother and betrothed, actions which represent a profound breach of trust. This act evokes the concept of tyranny, where the ruler disregards the principles of the feudal bond and the trust placed in him by his vassals.

The Feudal Bond’s Core Principles

The feudal bond, fundamental to the social fabric of Westeros, includes the mutual duties and obligations between a lord and his vassals. Aerys’ order to Lord Arryn to execute Lyanna’s family members, someone who swore to protect them, betrays not only his word but also the very foundation of the feudal system. This act elevates the ruler’s desires above the social contract, leading to potential further tyranny.

The Consequences for Lyanna and Ned

The ultimate decision for Robert and Ned Stark, even if a letter were to arrive expressing Lyanna’s feelings for Rhaegar, would still come down to a choice that fundamentally stems from the broader political and social implications. For Robert, it is not a choice between rebellion or humiliation but between rebellion or death.

Ned Stark’s Fate

Ned Stark’s fate, like Robert’s, would also be sealed by the weight of his duties and the dire consequences for his family. The societal and political ramifications of Lyanna’s elopement and the actions of Rhaegar and Aerys would have far greater impact on Ned than any personal message could ever have.

Assumptions Without Testimony

Furthermore, without her own testimony to verify her state of mind, it is highly likely that any message would be viewed with suspicion. The possibility that the letter was written under duress or that her mental state has been compromised in captivity would be the prevailing assumption.

Lyanna Stark, as a figure in a complex and rigid social hierarchy, would have her personal feelings marginalized in the face of larger political and feudal realities. The narrative weaves into a broader tapestry of power, duty, and tyranny, where the personal and the political are inextricably linked, and individual desires must bow to the demands of the collective.