The Ethical Dilemma of the Kingsguard: If Aerys Sought to Kill Rhaegar, Would They Protect Him?
The Kingsguard sworn to protect the king and his family, particularly Aerys Targaryen and Rhaegar Targaryen, may find themselves in a profound ethical conundrum. This essay explores the potential actions of key members of the Kingsguard if Aerys were to attempt to kill Rhaegar. Drawing from the complexities of loyalty, ethics, and personal loyalties within the context of A Song of Ice and Fire, we will examine the possible outcomes and the significant moral dilemmas they might face.
Historical Precendents: Disobeying Aerys
Historically, we've seen that members of the Kingsguard, such as Ser Jaime Lannister, have shown willingness to act against the king's orders when it comes to protecting others. Jaime famously killed Aerys to save King's Landing from being burned. If Aerys were indeed trying to kill Rhaegar, some members of the Kingsguard might choose to disobey the king's orders, especially if they believed that protecting Rhaegar served the best interests of the realm or if they had personal loyalty to him.
The Motivations and Conflicts
However, disobeying the king would come with severe consequences. Members of the Kingsguard, sworn to protect the king, stand to lose their honor, position, or even their lives. The Kingsguard oath is binding, and any actions countering Aerys's direct orders would be a betrayal of this solemn vow.
Ultimately, the actions of the Kingsguard would be highly dependent on individual loyalties, perceptions of Aerys's madness, and their own sense of duty. It is likely to lead to a rift within the Kingsguard itself; while some may choose to remain loyal to Aerys, others might side with Rhaegar. This scenario could significantly alter the political landscape within Westeros.
Royal Loyalists and Independents
Let's delve into the potential choices of key members of the Kingsguard:
Ser Jaime Lannister
Ser Jaime Lannister has a strong bond with both Aerys and Rhaegar. His decision would depend on which loyalties he values more. If Aerys were truly trying to kill Rhaegar, Jaime might choose to protect Rhaegar out of a sense of personal obligation or to maintain the stability of the realm. Jaime's history of acting against Aerys's orders for the greater good provides a precedent for this action.
Ser Barristan "the Bold" Selmy
Ser Barristan "the Bold" Selmy, as the Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, would face a critical choice. His adherence to the rules versus aligning with the winning side. If Selmy believes in the sanctity of the Kingsguard oath, he might remain loyal to Aerys. However, if he assesses that Aerys is mad and a threat to the realm, he might choose to side with Rhaegar to ensure the stability and safety of the realm.
Ser Gerold "the White Bull" Hightower
Ser Gerold "the White Bull" Hightower is likely to prioritize his personal loyalties over abstract principles. If his personal bond with Arthur Dayne is strong enough, and he despises Aerys, he might choose to protect Rhaegar. His sense of duty to Arthur and the realm could drive him to act against Aerys's orders.
The Supporting Cast: Allies and Potentials
Key figures who might support Rhaegar in this scenario include:
Ser Arthur "Sword of the Morning" Dayne
Arthur, as Rhaegar's closest friend and the supposed Sword of the Morning, would unquestionably defend Rhaegar. His oath and personal devotion to Rhaegar would ensure that he would put his life on the line to protect him.
Prince Lewyn Martell
Prince Lewyn Martell, Rhaegar's uncle-in-law, would protect his niece's husband. His loyalty to his wife's family and any concerns about the consequences of Aerys's actions would prompt him to support Rhaegar.
Oswell Whent
Oswell Whent would likely support Rhaegar, especially considering his involvement in organizing the Tourney of Harrenhall, which was a setup to replace Aerys. WHent would have a political incentive to back Rhaegar to maintain stability and power in the realm.
Jonothor Darry
Jonothor Darry, due to his oath and his brother's support for Aerys, would protect the king. However, his actions during the queen's rape reveal a disinterest in recognizing the king's authority in this critical moment. This might lead to a rift within the Kingsguard.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if Aerys were to seek to kill Rhaegar, it is likely the Kingsguard would face a profound ethical dilemma. Individual choices would be influenced by personal loyalties, perceptions of Aerys's madness, and a sense of duty. This scenario highlights the complex interplay of moral and political considerations within Westeros. Depending on their loyalties and perceptions, key members of the Kingsguard could end up protecting Rhaegar, leading to a potent shift in the political balance of power within the realm.