Why Didn't Cersei Order Arrows on Daenerys in 'Game of Thrones'?
The Game of Thrones series is filled with tense moments and strategic combat decisions. One such moment that haunts many fans is the question: Why didn't Cersei Lannister order her army to kill Daenerys Targaryen with arrows in the fifth episode? This question has sparked extensive debate among the show's dedicated audience. In this article, we will explore the reasoning behind this decision and offer insights into the strategic and narrative choices made by the creators.
Analysis of the Situation
Cersei had a significantly incomplete army of only about 100 unspoiled soldiers, which made a direct assault a risky proposition. The Golden Company, Cersei's hired mercenary force, was also available but limited in their operational capacity. Moving these forces into the Battle of the Godswood or close to Dragonstone would require a considerable investment of time and resources, which could have been better utilized in other ways.
Strategic Considerations
1. Range and Timing: One of the most obvious reasons is the range and timing of the attack. If Daenerys and her dragons were within the firing range of the army, Cersei would have certainly ordered an attack. However, in the episode in question, this was not the case. The scene did not provide evidence that they were within this range, making an arrow attack impractical and ineffective.
2. Golden Company Limitations: The Golden Company, although formidable, was known for their efficiency in mercenary operations but also for their cost. Hiring and deploying these mercenaries would have required substantial resources. Moreover, the Golden Company is accustomed to attacking from positions of advantage; a prolonged and direct engagement would not have been their preference.
3. Negotiation Tactics: Another aspect of the narrative is the idea of provocation and political maneuvering. Cersei might have had plans to use Daenerys to her advantage, prolonging the conflict and possibly even using her as a hostage. Choosing to not immediately attack could be a strategic choice to leverage Daenerys as a pawn in the larger game. However, the common courtesy of negotiations is not typically a motivator for Cersei, who is known for her ruthless and pragmatic nature.
The Narrative and Character Development
The decision not to order an immediate attack on Daenerys aligns with the narrative arcs of both Cersei and Daenerys. Cersei is intricate in her plans and is always looking for the best opportunity to gain advantage. The absence of a direct attack could be part of a long-term strategy rather than a momentary lapse in judgment. On the other hand, Daenerys represents the moral high ground and the resistance to tyranny, making the show's creators likely to choose a narrative that emphasizes her intentions and actions.
The episode also sets up future challenges and alliances, such as the potential for Daenerys to take down King's Landing. This scene was a pivotal moment that contributed to the tension and anticipation for the finale of Game of Thrones. It also showcased Daenerys's strategic thinking and her decisions to prioritize negotiation and conversation over immediate violence, which is an essential character arc in the series.
Conclusion
While the decision not to order an immediate attack on Daenerys in the fifth episode may seem puzzling to audiences, it is a critical part of the intricate storytelling and the strategic thinking of the show's characters. These choices shape the ongoing narrative and provide viewers with a deeper understanding of the motivations and tactics of each character.
For fans of Game of Thrones, this question adds another layer to the overarching plot and reinvigorates discussions about the series. The strategic and narrative choices made by the creators ultimately contributed to the rich and complex world of Westeros, making the show a beloved and celebrated masterpiece of modern television.