The Tragic Reality: Ser Davos and Shireen's Fate in Game of Thrones
Game of Thrones, with its intricate plots and parallel universes, is a narrative gem that has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. One of the most heart-wrenching scenes in the series was the cruel and bitter end of Shireen Baratheon. This article delves into the question, 'Where was Ser Davos when Shireen was burned alive?'
A Duty Unfulfilled
In the series, Show tells us that Ser Davos, Stannis Baratheon's Hand of the King, was tasked with procuring supplies from the Night's Watch. This duty kept him away from The Red Keep during a tumultuous period in the story. In contrast, the Book reveals that Davos, either in White Harbor or sailing to Skagos, awaited confirmation from the South on whether to go to Castle Black. The divergence in narrative creates an intriguing question: Where was Ser Davos when Shireen was burned alive?
Stannis' Plan and Davos' Dilemma
Stannis Baratheon, embarking on a mission to reclaim his birthright, assembled a small contingent to venture North to obtain the necessary supplies from the Night's Watch. The interview in The Dance of Dragons, an episode of Season 5, sheds light on the conversation between Stannis and Davos:
Davos: You sent for me, Your Grace.
Stannis: Find some healthy horses and a few knights to guard you. I am sending you back to Castle Black to relay a message to the Lord Commander. My king commands that he sends food supplies and fresh horses. In return, if I take the throne, I will ensure the Night's Watch has all the men it requires. He can guard all nineteen castles on the wall, if he so wishes.
Davos: Your Grace, you named me your Hand.
Stannis: Yes.
Davos: The King's Hand must never abandon the king, especially in times of war.
Stannis: You are not abandoning me. You are obeying a command.
Davos: A boy with a scroll could deliver this message.
Stannis: And if Jon Snow refuses, a boy with a scroll would say that I didn't name you Hand for your expertise in military matters but to bring food to Castle Black. Ride for Castle Black. Do not come back empty-handed.
Davos: Your Grace, perhaps Queen Selyse and Princess Shireen could accompany me.
Stannis: My family stays with me.
Davos: At least let me take Shireen. A siege is no place for a little girl.
Stannis: My family stays with me.
From this exchange, it's evident that Ser Davos, despite his foresight and concern for Princess Shireen, was ultimately instructed by Stannis to proceed with his mission without her. This decision, though strategic, left Shireen vulnerable during a dire situation.
The Burnings and Princess Shireen
The infamous burning of Shireen Baratheon by her bridegroom Qyburn is a deeply emotional and tragic moment in the show. It occurs during a siege at Harrenhal, where the small and innocent Shireen is burned alive under the influence of the Mad King Aerys II Targaryen. Had Ser Davos been present, perhaps he could have intervened or at least offered comfort to the traumatized princess.
Implications and Analysis
The absence of Ser Davos at a pivotal moment in Shireen's life raises questions about the responsibilities of a Hand of the King. In Game of Thrones, a Hand serves not only as an advisor but also as a loyal and empathetic figure. How could the Hand, considered the right-hand man of the king, be so unresponsive to the pleas of a princess?
Moreover, this incident highlights the complex nature of the political and military landscape in Westeros. While Stannis believed that Davos was more capable in military affairs, he overlooked the emotional and moral responsibilities that came with his position. This oversight, albeit unintentional, underscores the multifaceted challenges faced by leaders in a world as chaotic and violent as Westeros.
The divergent narratives between Show and Book further emphasize the reader's and viewer's engagement with the story. They provide a richer and more nuanced portrayal of the world and its characters, inviting deeper reflection on the choices and actions of the protagonists.