Is Varys a Traitor to Daenerys in Game of Thrones?
In the world of Game of Thrones, the relationship between Varys and Daenerys Targaryen is nothing short of complex. Varys, a master manipulator and a key player in the political arena, has often been portrayed as an enigma - someone who is both a loyal supporter and a potential threat. This article delves into the question: is Varys a traitor to Daenerys, and what drives his actions?
Context and Plot Analysis
Varys' Motives and Actions: Varys' relationship with Daenerys is marked by his attempts to inform Jon of his true parentage and his plotting to undermine Daenerys' rule. These actions, while deemed as betrayal by Daenerys, reveal a deeper narrative - the conflict between loyalty and moral judgment. Varys' ultimate betrayal or more accurately his decision to support Jon over Daenerys, highlights a crucial turning point in the series.
Replacing Daenerys with Jon
Varys and the Succession Plan: Varys was actively planning to replace Daenerys with Jon as the new ruler of the Seven Kingdoms. This plot involved secret letters and conspiracies that were not entirely known to Tyrion or Daenerys initially. However, when Tyrion confronted Daenerys about Varys' betrayal, he hinted at the letters, suggesting that he was privy to the plan.
Tyrion's Intervention: Despite his desire to save Daenerys from being killed, Tyrion chose to turn Varys in. This action was driven by the fear of Daenerys' death and the potential consequences of her actions. Varys, being a master of his craft, likely saw the benefit in supporting Jon, who he believed would be a better king for the realm.
Varys: The Selfless Servant of the Realm
Champion of the People: It is crucial to understand that Varys never truly served any monarch; he served the realm himself. His actions were always driven by the betterment of the people and minimizing the carnage. Varys' selflessness is evident in his relentless pursuit of what he believed to be the most beneficial outcome for the realm, even if it meant challenging the leader of the day.
The Real Betrayal
Daenerys’ True Traitorship: Varys saw through Daenerys' false sense of security, and he acted to protect the realm. Daenerys, on the other hand, betrayed the people she was supposed to lead. Her actions, driven by grief and rage, led to disastrous consequences. Varys, in his efforts to steer the course towards what he deemed necessary, might not have been directly betraying Daenerys but preserving the realm from her reckless actions.
The Misguided MISSION
Varys’ Failed Attempts: Instead of offering support during a moment of emotional and mental turmoil, Varys chose to try and poison Daenerys and spread misinformation about Jon. These actions only pushed Daenerys further into a state of despair, ultimately leading to the destruction of her hopes and the realm. Varys' misguided efforts to 'do what is best' resulted in significant harm to Daenerys and the realm.
The Impact on the Series: One could argue that a significant portion of the events in Game of Thrones can be attributed to Varys and Daenerys' evolving relationship. His actions, whether seen as betrayal or selfless service, had profound consequences on the storyline. By manipulating events and relationships, Varys played a crucial role in shaping the narrative and Daenerys' character development.
Conclusion
Final Thoughts: The question of whether Varys is a traitor to Daenerys is complex and multifaceted. Whether seen as a betrayer or a selfless servant of the realm, Varys' actions are rooted in his vision for a better future. His role in the series highlights the intricate balance between loyalty and moral judgment, and the devastating consequences of misguided attempts.
References
Game of Thrones Season 7 and 8: The final seasons of Game of Thrones provide a deep dive into Varys' motivations and actions, making them key references for this analysis.