The Complex Moral Dilemma: Why Jon and Tyrion Let Daenerys Burn Varys in S08E05 of Game of Thrones
"The punishment for treason and regicide is death, usually a nastier death than the one that Varys received. He got off lightly." - A thoughtful analysis of a pivotal scene in Game of Thrones.
The fifth episode of the final season of Game of Thrones, titled “The Bells,” offers a profound moral and political examination of the characters' complex relationships and the impact of their decisions. Among the most pivotal moments, the scene where Jon Snow and Tyrion Lannister allow Daenerys Targaryen to burn Varys alive is particularly devastating. This essay delves into the underlying reasons and the broader implications of these choices.
Loyalty and Fear
Both Jon Snow and Tyrion Lannister grapple with a profound sense of loyalty and internal moral conflict in this pivotal moment. Jon, who views himself as a symbol of honor and justice, is increasingly aware of Daenerys' tyrannical tendencies. However, his loyalty to her as his queen is a driving force. Similarly, Tyrion, the cunning and often morally compromised Hand of the King, tries to balance his allegiance to Daenerys with his clear understanding of the dire consequences of her actions. Both characters must choose between their ethical beliefs and their perceived duty to maintain their authority and protect their loved ones.
Varys' Betrayal
Varys, the seasoned spymaster and advisor to the Targaryens, openly betrays Daenerys by plotting to support Jon as a more suitable ruler. This act of betrayal is not just unethical but also bold and calculating. Daenerys, who has made loyalty a cornerstone of her rule, perceives Varys' actions as unforgivable. While Jon and Tyrion might not have agreed with her methods, they recognized the gravity of the offense. Allowing Varys to meet a swift and painful death serves as a reminder of the ruthlessness that comes with maintaining power.
Power Dynamics
The dynamics of power are ever-present in this scene, and the risk of open opposition to Daenerys is significant. Her volatile nature and her growing inclination to use extreme measures to maintain control underscore the dangers of standing in her way. Jon and Tyrion, caught between their loyalty to Daenerys and their moral compass, may have felt that opposing her directly could be dangerous. By allowing her to execute Varys, they might have been attempting to avoid further conflict or potential punishment, a decision that reflects the intense pressure and moral ambiguity of the final season.
Character Development
The scene also highlights the moral dilemmas faced by Jon and Tyrion, characters who embody contrasting values and approaches. Jon, a principled and honorable man, grapples with the reality of Daenerys' rule, while Tyrion, often the voice of reason, finds himself enmeshed in political maneuvering and personal loyalties. These complex interactions exemplify the broader themes of the show, where the lines between right and wrong, loyalty and betrayal, are blurred by the demands of survival and power.
In the end, Jon and Tyrion's decision reflects the tragic consequences of power struggles among central characters in Game of Thrones. Their actions, while dictated by fear and the need to maintain control, are a stark reminder of the high stakes and the complex moral landscape they inhabit. This scene remains a critical moment in the series, not just for its dramatic intensity but for its exploration of the challenges of leadership and the enduring tension between loyalty and morality.