Criticisms of Sansa Starks Character Development in A Song of Ice and Fire and Game of Thrones
Criticisms of Sansa Stark's Character Development in A Song of Ice and Fire and Game of Thrones
Throughout the A Song of Ice and Fire book series and the Game of Thrones television show, Sansa Stark has been a controversial figure. Fans have divided opinions on her development, with many criticizing her portrayal as misguided and lacking in proper growth. This article explores the criticisms, the character's journey, and the reasons behind why some fans remain disappointed despite her prominence in the narrative.
Character Development Criticisms
Many critics argue that Sansa's character development is lackluster and often criticized as being poorly executed. Her transition from a naive, privileged girl to a cunning, powerful political figure is seen as forced and unrealistic. The well-established plot point of the Game of Thrones ending, where idealistic characters become jaded and self-serving, is dissected, as it doesn't seem appropriate when evil triumphs in this narrative.
Enhanced Self-Rule and Leadership
From a literary standpoint, Sansa initially emerges as a strong and competent leader. However, her journey within the show is often criticized as artificial. In the books, her character retains a more grounded and realistic depiction, reflecting the harsh realities of medieval life. On the other hand, the television adaptation often portrays Sansa as a sort of Lady Macbeth/Livia Augusta figure, trying to manipulate and control the narrative from behind the scenes. Such portrayals are seen as overly simplistic and unnuanced.
Realism and Historical Context
Sansa Stark is often compared to other female characters in the series, such as Daenerys Targaryen, Arya Stark, and even Brienne of Tarth. Critics argue that Sansa's lack of supernatural powers or martial prowess makes her seem more relatable but also less impressive. Her development is seen as a case of setting her up as a realistic, historical heroine, but the narrative often falls short of meeting these expectations.
Sheltered Childhood and Naivety
At the start of the show, Sansa is portrayed as a sheltered child, groomed to be a leader but often seen as naive and unprepared for the harsh realities of the Seven Kingdoms. Her upbringing by parents who are both kind and wise, though well-intentioned, can be seen as a source of her lack of real-world experience. These early criticisms echo throughout her journey, with fans often citing her lack of political savvy and her tendency to trust others too easily.
Poignant Character Arcs in Later Seasons
Despite the initial criticisms, the final seasons of the show offer a more dynamic portrayal of Sansa. In Season 8, her growth is significant, but it is often met with disappointment due to the rushed nature of the narrative. Sansa’s sudden emergence as a political strategist and her ability to see through Dany's illusions is seen as a case of incomplete development. Fans find it hard to fathom Sansa's sudden transformation without a clear, gradual progression of her character.
Critical Analysis of the Show's Ending
The final episode of the show, where Sansa is presented as the leader of the North and the potential savior of Westeros, is often criticized for being too forced. The lack of clear development and the abrupt nature of her leadership qualities make her role in the show's final act seem unsatisfying to many viewers. Critics argue that the showrunners rushed the narrative, focusing more on external events rather than developing the characters' internal journeys.
Conclusion
The criticisms of Sansa Stark's character development highlight the complex nature of portraying a literary character in a visual medium. While some fans appreciate her depth and resilience, others find her journey unsatisfying and overly simplistic. This article aims to dissect these criticisms, offering a nuanced view of Sansa's character development, both in her books and on the show, and exploring the reasons behind persistent fan dissatisfaction.