Was Daenerys’s Mass Crucifixion of the Masters Morally Worse Than Arya’s Mass Murder of the Freys?
When it comes to discussing the moral implications of Daenerys Targaryen’s mass crucifixion of the Masters in Essos and Arya Stark’s mass murder of the Freys at the Twins, the conversation often revolves around who acted more justly and ethically. However, an analysis of their respective actions reveals significant differences in their motivations, methods, and the outcomes of their actions.
The Motivations and Context
Daenerys Targaryen’s crucifixion of the Masters in Meereen was a result of a deeply emotional and impulsive reaction to the cruelty inflicted on the children there. As a result of the Master’s cruel practices, children were being crucified, and Daenerys felt a righteous indignation. However, her method ignored the possibility that some of the Masters could have been innocent or even opposed to such barbarism. She acted out of a misplaced sense of justice and without fully considering the complexities of the situation.
Arya Stark’s actions, on the other hand, were more meticulously planned and environmentally specific. Her motives were clearly those of a vengeful and independent assassin. In her case, she targeted only the individuals responsible for the Red Wedding, carefully planning her revenge and ensuring that she brought those responsible to justice, as it were. Arya did not indiscriminately kill everyone involved, focusing on the ones responsible.
The Acting Styles
Daenerys has a history of acting rashly and without fully considering the broader implications of her actions. Her actions in Meereen, though perhaps driven by a sense of justice, were ultimately those of an immature and emotional response rather than a calculated and thoughtful decision. The phrase "one crime with another" often attributed to Tyrion Lannister questions the morality of such blind retribution.
Arya, in contrast, shows a clear distinction in her approach to justice. She does not brand herself as a messiah or a savior. Her actions are a result of personal vendetta and revenge, not a moral imperative. She meticulously plans her actions and does not indiscriminately kill. The scene where Arya, disguised as someone else, pours a supposedly poisoned wine highlights the level of planning and care she put into her attack.
Comparing the Actions
The comparison between the two actions reveals a stark difference in the nature of the violence and the circumstances under which it was carried out. Daenerys’ mass crucifixion, while perhaps justifiable from her perspective, shows a pattern of acting rashly and emotionally. She does not attempt to separate the guilty from the innocent, focusing instead on retribution.
Arya’s actions are more specific and calculated. She kills only the individuals responsible for the Red Wedding, showing a clear differentiation between those who are responsible and those who are not. This method is more aligned with the principles of justice, even if it is driven by personal vendetta.
Would They Semi-Like Each Other?
Given their fundamentally different approaches and motivations, it is unlikely that Daenerys and Arya would have a warm relationship. Daenerys, with her tendency to act on impulse and her grandiose sense of justice, would not find a kindred spirit in Arya, who is driven by a more personal and coldly calculated motive. Both characters value justice, but Daenerys’ sense of justice is often too emotional and broad, while Arya’s is precise and personal.
In conclusion, while both actions have the same end result, the circumstances and motivations behind them reveal significant differences in ethical and moral judgment. Daenerys’s mass crucifixion, while perhaps justified in her eyes, is ultimately a more emotionally driven and less calculated act compared to Arya’s more precise and rational approach to revenge.