Cerseis Blunder: The Aftermath of Destroying the Sept of Baelor

The Shattering of Power: Cersei’s Blunder

Introduction

The destruction of the Sept of Baelor orchestrated by Cersei Lannister marked a turning point in the intricate narrative of A Song of Ice and Fire. While the shock value is no doubt there, the devastating aftermath reveals a much graver consequence that extends beyond mere spectacle. This article delves into the implications of Cersei's action and the subsequent chaos it unleashed.

Intellectual Cruelty vs. Strategic Oversight

Destroying the Sept of Baelor was undeniably a shock move by Cersei. It was a calculated peril that aimed to silence her enemies and assert control over Westeros. However, the plot was far more complex than a simple act of vengeance. It exposed several critical flaws in Cersei’s strategic acumen. Her notorious impulsiveness often led her to overlook the multifaceted nature of political intrigue and power dynamics in Westeros.

Why Cersei's Move Falters

Contrary to her belief in her own Machiavellian genius, Cersei’s plan underestimates the true nature of power and loyalty in Westeros. The Sept of Baelor serves as a pillar of faith and governance, a place where nobles can offer their vassals and subjects an audience with their king. By destroying this site, Cersei underestimates the gravity of her actions:

The act was premeditated to incite immediate fear, but it lacked the necessary political pragmatism to secure loyalty. The acrimony and accusations that followed created a coalition against Cersei that ultimately led to her downfall. The blowback was severe, with numerous threats of rebellion from key noble houses.

These reactions stemmed from a variety of angles:

The Fallout and Reckoning

Reneging Nobles and Widespread Hatred

The destruction of the Sept and the apparent murder of the rightful Baratheon king opened the floodgates to widespread unrest:

Westerlands: Lord Paramount Kevan Lannister and his queen were among the victims. Regional nobles would likely turn against Cersei, seeing her as a ruler who would murder her own family members for power. This would spark a rebellion, aided by the loyalty of other families like the Sarsfields, Crakehalls, Marbrands, Leffords, Kennings, and Baneforts. Reach: The destruction of the crown prince and his mother would incite rebellion as House Tyrell seeks to avenge this perceived betrayal. North: Technically still in rebellion under Stannis Baratheon, they would have immediate reason to act against Cersei. Vale: With the Sept of Baelor destroyed, the Vale would be less likely to support the Baratheon claim to the throne. Riverlands: Lacking support and with no King’s landing to rally behind, the Riverlands would turn against Cersei, reclaiming their former allegiance with Frey defection leading to a liberation of Edmure Tully. Dorne: Loyal to its own customs and free spirit, Dorne would seize the opportunity to strike against Cersei. Stormlands: With no king to rally behind and a lack of ties to the Lannister cause, the Stormlands would also rebel.

This coalition of disaffected nobles represents a significant threat to Cersei’s rule. Her golden boys, such as Jaime and Tyrion, have already demonstrated their loyalty, making her vulnerable to a full-scale civil war.

The Realistic Outcome

The scenario of Cersei becoming queen is highly improbable given the strategic backlash. She would be long dead before facing Daenerys Targaryen in battle:

Civil War Ensues

The most realistic outcome following the destruction of the Sept of Baelor is a prolonged and devastating civil war. Without the support of key regions, Cersei’s reign would be short-lived. Her death would likely come from internal conflict rather than overt confrontation with Daenerys:

House Lannister would be left vulnerable, with one of its cadet branches seizing control and abandoning Casterly Rock. The trampling of Westeros would ensue, igniting a series of revolts and power struggles. The various factions and houses that oppose Cersei would band together, hastening her demise.

Conclusion

While the explosion of the Sept of Baelor made a compelling narrative twist, it ultimately lays bare the fragile nature of Cersei’s power. Her arrogance and strategic oversight left her vulnerable to a coalition of regional and noble houses. The realistic end result of this act of desperation is a civil war, a scenario that spells the end of her reign and the chaotic reshaping of Westeros.