What Happened to Roose Bolton in the Books?

Over the years, Roose Bolton has become a beloved and fearful figure alike in the Game of Thrones universe. Created by George R.R. Martin, his character has been portrayed with both admiration and haters in equal measure. Many fans are eager to follow his story throughout the determined yet twisted ambitions that have marked his path. However, the Six Kingdoms continue their struggle, and Roose Bolton remains alive and firing up the morale in the hope of victory in the Battle of Ice.

Who is Roose Bolton?

Roose Bolton is a formidable man, central to the position of House Bolton in the Vale during the chaos of the War of the Five Kings. A member of the Boltons, he wears the guise of a man focused on his duties, but his complex character can’t be pigeonholed into a single aspect. Known for his enriching wife Walda Frey and his ability to make difficult decisions, Bolton has a reputation as a ruthless and cunning man. In the books, he is depicted as a tough and determining character who is not afraid to embrace his aggressive side and sometimes even the love he displays to his only son, Ramsay, can be seen as more aspirational love infused with fear and manipulation.

Key Plot Points in the Books

The Battle of Ice

At the heart of Roose Bolton's current narrative is his participation in the Battle of Ice. This pivotal event in Game of Thrones is crucial for the fate of Winterfell and beyond. As the Stannis Baratheon army advances towards Winterfell, Lord Eddard Stark's manor, Roose Bolton is seen as the vanguard of House Bolton in the valleys of the North. He is rallying his men, preparing for the siege, and ensuring that his followers are ready for the challenge.

Through his constant schemes and manipulative prowess, Roose Bolton has managed to construct a formidable force against Stannis. His strategic mind and fierce loyalty to the only Stark who survived, Robb, are now put to the ultimate test. With Starken soldiers under his command, Bolton must ensure that the position of Winterfell holds. This is no easy feat, as the war's complex plot intertwines the forces of nature, the intelligence of men, and the will of the gods. The Battle of Ice is a testament to Bolton's character and his relentless pursuit of what he believes to be his right and duty.

His Motivations and Intrigues

Behind the scenes, Roose Bolton's actions and decisions are fuelled by a mix of power, control, and survival. His plans are shrouded in a web of intrigue that involves both his allies and his enemies. Bolton's relationship with the remaining Stark forces is a delicate balance of caution, strategic partnership, and unspoken alliances. He is well aware of the complex relationships among the Houses in the North and Southern regions, and his strategic moves are aimed at securing his position and expanding his influence.

Bolton's loyalty and devotion to Robb Stark are also crucial. While they were once enemies, their alliance against the Lannisters brought about a temporary truce. However, as the situation shifts and the war intensifies, Roose must stay loyal to Robb's cause. This is a significant decision that Bolton must make, as his actions can have far-reaching consequences for his and Robb's future.

Another significant aspect is Roose's relationship with his only son, Ramsay Snow. The comparison to his daughter, Ramsay, and the complexity of his feelings towards him add a layer of tension and unpredictability to Bolton's character. Bolton's methods of leading, his willingness to use his son as a pawn, and his apparent lack of paternal love all contribute to the multifaceted nature of the character. The goal is to maintain control and power, even if it means sacrificing his son for a greater good.

Long-term Implications on the Narrative

The Battle of Ice and Roose Bolton's role in it are not only crucial for the immediate outcome of the war but also for the broader narrative of Game of Thrones. His actions have the potential to reshape the political landscape of Westeros and the outcome of the entire war. If successful, Bolton's efforts could secure a lasting hold over the North, and even influence the rest of Westeros. However, if he fails, his reputation and future in the world of the Seven Kingdoms could be severely compromised.

Bolton's character in the books is far from static, and his story continues to evolve. His decisions and the battles he fights will have significant impacts on the other characters and the overall plot. As the series progresses, his fate remains uncertain, adding to the intrigue and suspense of the story.

Discovering the truth behind the actions and motivations of Roose Bolton is an intriguing journey for both fans and readers alike. Despite the uncertainties ahead, he remains a complex and compelling character whose story is far from over.

Conclusion

The ultimate fate of Roose Bolton is yet to be determined, and his role in the Battle of Ice marks a significant turn in the narrative. His unrelenting pursuit of power and control, as well as his dedication to his cause, make him a key player in the ultimate struggle for dominion over Westeros. Regardless of the outcome, it is clear that Roose Bolton's story is one of complexity, intrigue, and enduring interest.