The Dilemma of Burning or Submitting: Cersei’s Choices in Game of Thrones

In the tumultuous narrative of Game of Thrones, the houses of Westeros often find themselves in dire straits, with characters forced to make impossible choices. The most compelling of these dilemmas revolves around Cersei Lannister's decision in Season 7. Will she burn down Kings Landing to retain her power, or would she rather submit to Daenerys Targaryen and face her fate gracefully?

Cersei’s Will to Power

The show’s plot line relentlessly underscores Cersei's resolve to maintain her control over King's Landing. In Season 7, she expresses her willingness to go to extreme lengths to preserve her throne. One of the most notorious options she ponders is the use of wildfire to level the city. Her sheer resolve is exemplified when she states, "So we fight and die or we submit and die. I know my choice. A soldier should know his." This quotation encapsulates her unwavering determination to protect her legacy.

Wildfire and Dragonfire: A Contrast in Violence

While Cersei does not explicitly burn Kings Landing in the way she threatens, her readiness to employ violent means is evident. This stance contrasts starkly with the eventual outcome when Daenerys Targaryen uses dragonfire to devastate the city. The climactic scene in Season 8 saw the Red Keep engulfed in flames, resulting in immense destruction and casualties. It's a chilling mirror of Cersei’s past actions, specifically Aerys II Targaryen's decision to burn the city to prevent invasion.

One can only wonder what might have transpired if Cersei followed through with her plan. Jaime Lannister, having once saved the city from wildfire, might have been faced with the challenging moral decision of killing his sister to prevent disaster. This thought experiment brings to the fore the complex moral landscape of Game of Thrones.

The Redemption of Arya or a New Leadership?

The possibility of Arya Stark or Tyrion Lannister taking a significant role in the future of King's Landing is not entirely out of the realm of speculation. If Cersei were to fall, who would take control? Such is the nature of power struggles in Westeros. Tyrion's potential to become a dragon rider like Daenerys adds a layer of intrigue to the narrative. It’s a twist that could shift the power dynamics entirely, leading to a different trajectory for the show’s storyline.

Conclusion

The fate of Kings Landing lies in the balance, with both Cersei and Daenerys standing at the crossroads of their destinies. Will Cersei's fear of submission lead her to act rashly, employing the very weapon that once almost destroyed her? Or will she find a way to submit, gracefully accepting the inevitable? The answer to this question holds the key to the future of Westeros. As the show progresses, these choices will define the path of characters and the trajectory of the narrative.