Understanding Stannis Baratheon’s Ethical Dilemmas

Often portrayed as a heartless and misguided character, Stannis Baratheon in the television series ldquo;Game of Thronesrdquo; is often criticized for his lack of empathy and questionable decisions. However, a closer look at the character's actions and motivations reveals a man faced with difficult ethical choices driven by his sense of duty and honor.

The Show as Compared to the Books

The television series presents Stannis as a rather detached and uncompromising figure, often portrayed as a washed-up fool. However, in the books, Stannis is depicted as a formidable ruler with a deep understanding of politics and strategy. He is a man who is determined to reclaim the throne he believes is rightfully his, despite the challenges and opposition he faces.

Stannis views the world as a cruel and unforgiving place, where justice must be upheld even at the cost of personal gain. He is a staunch proponent of his family’s legacy, and he views the Lannisters as a threat to that legacy. There are moments in both the books and the series where Stannis is faced with tough decisions, but his choices are always driven by his sense of honor and duty.

The Role of the Unearthly Powers

Miriska, a woman with unearthly powers, plays a crucial role in the series by convincing Stannis that he is destined for a glorious destiny. Her ability to convince him after displaying incredible powers is a pivotal moment in the storyline. Stannis is defined by his black and white view of the world, and he accepts the reality she presents to him, believing it is his path to justice and power.

Even in the television series, Stannis is constantly faced with overwhelming odds. His battles against Renly and the Red Woman's manipulations highlight his struggle against impossible odds. The Red Woman’s shadow demon and her subsequent manipulations of Stannis further complicate his already difficult decisions. Stannis’s trust in the Red Woman’s advice, however misguided, is a reflection of his commitment to his cause and his belief in the apparently prophetic guidance.

The Return of Ser Davos

One of the most complex decisions Stannis faces is his order to send Ser Davos to the Wall for supplies. This is a difficult decision, as Stannis knows that if he were to burn the princess in a ritual, Davos would intervene. The threat of violence and the potential guilt of killing a friend add another layer of complexity to the decision. However, Stannis’s reasons for sending Davos are rooted in a desire to secure resources for his cause.

Stannis's love for Davos makes this decision even more difficult, but he is driven by a sense of honor and the need to prepare for the future. The order to send Davos is not out of fear for his wellbeing but rather a strategic move to ensure survival. It is a testament to Stannis’s character that he values his friend’s life so highly.

Was Stannis Evil?

Despite the difficult decisions and outcomes, Stannis’s actions should not be solely categorized as evil. He is thrust into an impossible series of events, each of which forces him to make tough moral choices. While his methods may seem harsh or unjust, his intentions are often rooted in a desire to protect and secure his family’s legacy.

Stannis may not have always chosen the path of least resistance or the most compassionate solution, but his actions are driven by a sense of purpose and duty. His character arc is one of a man determined to uphold justice and protect his family, even when the world seems cruel and unforgiving.

Conclusion

Stannis Baratheon’s character in ldquo;Game of Thronesrdquo; is a complex and multi-layered figure. His decisions, while often harsh and seemingly misguided, are rooted in a deep sense of duty and honor. He is not an evil man, but rather a character faced with overwhelming challenges. His actions, though difficult to follow, are driven by a noble and unwavering belief in what he sees as his rightful path.