Why Did Negotiations in Game of Thrones S7 E1 Focus on Last Hearth and Karhold, Not Bolton's Dreadfort?
In Game of Thrones Season 7 Episode 1, the negotiations between Jon Snow and the Northern houses primarily revolved around Last Hearth and Karhold. This strategic focus was a reflection of the series' immediate narrative and the urgent threat posed by the White Walkers. However, Boltons Castle, the Dreadfort, was not a point of contention or negotiation during this episode for a number of compelling reasons.
House Bolton's Fall and Power Erosion
By the end of Season 6, House Bolton had been effectively destroyed. Ramsay Bolton was defeated in the Battle of the Bastards, and Sansa Stark executed him, eradicating the Boltons' influence and power in the North. The fall of House Bolton diminishes the relevance of the Dreadfort in current political discussions. The castle, once a beacon of power and influence, now stands as a symbol of a bygone era and a family that has been eradicated.
Focus on Unity and Resource Rallying
Jon Snow is orchestrating the unification of the North to counter the impending threat from the White Walkers. The discussions about Last Hearth and Karhold are more pertinent because these are houses that still hold power and influence. Ranger Houses like House Karstark and House Umber, which control Last Hearth, can be rallied to support Jon's cause.
Given the dire situation, discussing locations like the Dreadfort, which is a fallen stronghold, does not serve to rally support and resources as effectively as discussing houses that can actively contribute to the fight against the White Walkers. Therefore, Jon Snow's strategy involves garnering support from houses that can still be engaged in the struggle, rather than focusing on a fallen family's property.
Historical Context and Disdain for Boltons
The series' focus on immediate threats and alliances necessitates a look at the current political landscape of the North, where the Boltons are largely viewed with disdain. Boltons' history as traitors and brutal rulers makes any negotiation regarding their former holdings irrelevant at this point. The immediate emphasis on unity and renewed political landscapes aligns better with the series' narrative at this critical juncture.
A Theory on Castle Importance
Another theory as to why Last Hearth and Karhold were prioritized over the Dreadfort involves their strategic locations. Jon Snow understands that the real threat comes from the southern_multiplier: 1n the direction of the Wall. The night king and his army's last known position is Hardhome, prompting Jon to deploy wildlings to guard the Wall under the leadership of Tormund.
When considering the geography, Last Hearth and Karhold are farther north than the Dreadfort. Moreover, Last Hearth lies directly in the path of the attacking undead as they travel from Hardhome. For this reason, Jon needs someone to defend these regions to keep the army of the dead as far north as possible. This strategy is aimed at protecting the rest of the North.
Though this is a personal theory based on a deep understanding of the series' geography and narrative, it highlights the strategic importance of these locations.
Overall, the absence of discussions about the Dreadfort in this episode reflects the current political landscape of the North post-House Bolton's fall and the urgent need to address the living houses that can contribute to the fight against the White Walkers.