Cerseis Obsession with Rhaegar: Beyond Her Crush and Political Ambitions
Cersei's Obsession with Rhaegar: Beyond Her Crush and Political Ambitions
The characters of A Song of Ice and Fire, particularly Cersei Lannister and Rhaegar Targaryen, are complex and multi-dimensional. The idea of Cersei wanting to marry Rhaegar after his marriage to Elia Martell often causes confusion and curiosity among fans. This article delves into Cersei's motivations and the broader context surrounding her desires.
The Origins of Cersei's Crush on Rhaegar
Cersei's infatuation with Rhaegar Targaryen began early in her life. As a young girl, Cersei had a crush on Rhaegar, viewing him as a romantic ideal. However, Rhaegar was already married to Elia Martell at the time. It was this initial infatuation that led Cersei to desire Rhaegar's attention, even though it was not reciprocated in a manner she envisioned.
Cersei's Ambitions and Political Motivations
While Cersei's feelings for Rhaegar were genuine and intense during her adolescence, her ambitions were primarily focused on power and the status of her family. Her marriage to Robert Baratheon was politically motivated, designed to solidify her family's hold on power following Robert's Rebellion. This rebellion, fueled by Rhaegar's actions, including the alleged abduction of Lyanna Stark, played a crucial role in shaping Cersei's later decisions and alliances.
Cersei's Reactions and Plan B
Even twenty years later, Cersei harbored intense feelings for Rhaegar. Despite his marriage to Elia Martell, Cersei did not give up on her desire to be with him. However, it is important to note that her attachment may not have been as mature as she later portrayed in A Feast for Crows. Cersei's overemphasis on her infatuation might be a coping mechanism for the disappointment and failure of her marriage to Robert Baratheon.
Tywin Lannister, Cersei's father, also had plans to marry Cersei to Rhaegar. This plan only became a possibility after Elia's death during childbirth, which occurred twice. Both Tywin and Cersei recognized the political benefits of such a union, as it would consolidate their family's power and align them with the Targaryens.
The Influence of Jaime's Beauty
Cersei once believed that her own brother-lover, Jaime Lannister, paled in comparison to Rhaegar Targaryen. She thought that marrying Rhaegar would not only make her queen but would also elevate her status in the realm. Despite this belief, her father, Tywin, was initially told that a servant's daughter was not good enough for a king's son, a clear indication of the social and political barriers Cersei faced in her pursuit of Rhaegar.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cersei's desire to marry Rhaegar was complex, driven by both her youthful infatuation and her political ambitions. While she never gave up on this dream, real-life politics and social dynamics often hindered her plans. Understanding these motivations and the broader context of the story provides a more nuanced view of Cersei's character in the A Song of Ice and Fire series.