Why Stannis Would Not Support Daenerys for the Iron Throne

In the tumultuous world of Westeros, the prospect of Stannis Baratheon supporting Daenerys Targaryen as the rightful ruler may seem unlikely, despite Daenerys's more legitimate claim to the Iron Throne. Stannis, a rigidly principled leader, adheres strongly to the belief that he is the true heir to the Baratheon line, having contested the Targaryen claim during Robert's Rebellion. This article explores the key reasons why Stannis would likely not support Daenerys.

Claim to the Throne

Stannis's Belief in His Own Legitimacy: Unlike Daenerys, who can trace her lineage back through the Targaryen line, Stannis is a brother to Robert Baratheon, making him the legitimate heir according to his view. The success of Robert's Rebellion established the Baratheons as the legal rulers of Westeros, and Stannis is deeply invested in this fact. Renly, another contender, would also have a stronger claim based on the laws of succession.

Ideological Differences

Stannis and Daenerys's Philosophic Divides: Stannis is a staunch supporter of the law and what he perceives as rightful rule. His vision of governance often aligns closely with the feudal system and traditional values. In contrast, Daenerys often embraces a more revolutionary approach, with a focus on breaking the wheel of oppression and establishing a new order. These differing philosophies could easily lead to conflict rather than cooperation.

Personal Ambition

Stannis's Fierce Ambition: Stannis is fiercely ambitious and has made significant sacrifices to pursue his claim to the throne. Supporting Daenerys would mean abandoning his own quest and potentially undermining his own efforts. This personal ambition is a significant barrier to any alliance with Daenerys.

Religious Beliefs

Stannis’s Divine Purpose: Stannis is heavily influenced by the Lord of Light and believes he has a divine purpose in ruling Westeros. He might view Daenerys as a distraction from his divine mission, especially if he feels certain that he is predestined to rule. His religious beliefs reinforce his sense of duty and his own claim to the throne.

Summary

Despite Daenerys's more legitimate claim to the Iron Throne and her victories, Stannis's personal ambitions, beliefs, and sense of duty are likely to yield a different outcome. The Baratheon line, through Robert's Rebellion, is established as the rightful and legal rulers of Westeros, and Stannis is deeply invested in this legacy. Even if Jon Snow is the true heir, Stannis would still remain loyal to his own claim and his personal mission.

Moreover, Stannis's strong ideological views would make any cooperation with Daenerys difficult, and his personal ambitions would make it nearly impossible for him to support her openly. The current legal framework and his past actions have solidified his stance as a formidable contender for the Iron Throne, leaving little room for accommodation with other claimants.