Can Brienne of Tarth Kill Stannis Baratheon During His Battle with Ramsay to Avenge Renly?

The world of Game of Thrones is filled with unexpected twists and turns, where the line between righteousness and revenge can often become blurred. One such scenario is the potential for Brienne of Tarth to take the ultimate vengeance against Stannis Baratheon by assassinating him during his battle against Ramsay Bolton. Let's explore the feasibility and implications of such a scenario.

Brienne's Determination and Motivations

Brienne of Tarth's hatred for Stannis Baratheon runs deep, as her beloved Renly Baratheon was killed in an apparently dishonorable manner by Stannis, who lacked noble intentions during the conflict. This betrayal has fueled Brienne's desire for vengeance, and she is more than willing to take extreme measures to avenge her patron.

Renly was the only person who truly cared for Brienne, and his untimely death has left a profound mark on her. If given the opportunity to take such an action, Brienne would not hesitate. Her moral compass, though not typically swayed by personal vendettas, has been significantly altered by this betrayal. Her loyalty and sense of justice have led her to a point where she would be willing to risk everything, including her own life, to avenge Renly.

Realistic Scenario Analysis

The chances of this scenario unfolding are quite high. As Jon Snow travels further northwards to Winterfell, Brienne is already nearby at Harrenhal. Given the urgency and the convergence of their paths, it is plausible that Brienne might find herself placed in a position where she could confront Stannis during his battle with Ramsay Bolton.

During a high-stakes and vulnerable moment in the battle, Brienne's unique advantages could come into play. She possesses remarkable skills with a sword, and her unwavering strength and endurance would make her a formidable opponent. Moreover, many soldiers who underestimate her due to her gender might become aggressive, thus tiring and diverting their attention. Her strategic use of these weaknesses could result in an unexpected turn of events that allows her to strike Stannis.

Brienne's primary focus in the present story is to protect Sansa Stark, which suggests that she is unlikely to rush into a confrontation with Stannis immediately. However, as the situation evolves, she may find herself in a position where she feels compelled to take action. The psychological strain of betrayal and the physical composition of the battlefield could both influence her decision to seek revenge.

The Practical Challenges

Indeed, the scenario of Brienne assassinating Stannis is not without its complexities. She is currently in captivity with Catelyn Stark, also known as Lady Stoneheart, at Harrenhal. This captivity might initially hinder her ability to take part in the battle. However, the dynamic between Brienne and Catelyn can shift, and with the appropriate conditions, Brienne might find a way to escape or possibly find means to disrupt the battle from the shadows.

Such a sequence of events would require a significant reconfiguration of the characters' alliances and dynamics, which could result in substantial implications. The sudden reappearance of Lady Stoneheart, with her formidable power, might lead to a new set of conflicts and alliances, further complicating the narrative.

Conclusion

While the scenario of Brienne of Tarth killing Stannis Baratheon during his battle with Ramsay Bolton is highly dramatic and symbolically significant, its practicality hinges on several variables. Given her deep-seated hatred, remarkable skills, and the convergence of their paths, it is certainly possible, though not guaranteed. The narrative would benefit from such a twist, adding a layer of complexity and emotional depth to the existing conflict.