Did Varys Know About Littlefinger and Lysa’s Involvement in Jon Arryn’s Death?

In A Song of Ice and Fire and its adaptation Game of Thrones, Varys is portrayed as a master manipulator and information broker with extensive knowledge of Westeros's political landscape. While it is not explicitly stated that Varys knew Littlefinger and Lysa Arryn were behind Jon Arryn's murder, several indicators suggest that he may have had suspicions or even knowledge of their involvement.

Varys’s Network and Extensive Knowledge

Varys has a vast network of spies and informants across Westeros. As a master of information, he would have been aware of the circumstances surrounding Jon Arryn's death. Organized and systematic in gathering intelligence, Varys would have known about any significant events, especially those that could influence the political landscape.

Political Motivation and Stability

Varys's political motivations often align with maintaining the stability of Westeros. The death of Jon Arryn, a renowned and wise Hand of the King, set off a chain reaction leading to the War of the Five Kings. As such, Varys would be keen to understand the true reasons behind such a significant event. If he suspected the involvement of Littlefinger and Lysa, knowing this information could be critical in maintaining the stability he desires.

Interactions with Littlefinger

Varys and Littlefinger have a complex relationship, characterized by mutual suspicion and intrigue. Their conversations often hint at deeper knowledge and understanding of each other's schemes. This suggests that Varys might have had some awareness of Littlefinger's role in Jon Arryn's death. In their interactions, small details and subtle references might have provided enough clues for Varys to piece together the truth.

Pushing for Littlefinger's Involvement

Although it is not definitively confirmed that Varys knew Lysa's specific involvement, evidence suggests that he may have known or suspected Littlefinger's role. Varys, wanting to postpone the conflict, chose to have Littlefinger involved in the murder. By doing so, Varys could avoid direct involvement in the assassination and maintain his position of power.

Varys was aware that Jon Arryn was getting closer to uncovering the truth about the Twins' incest. To postpone this conflict, Varys had to ensure that someone else would take the fall. He provided Littlefinger with the motive to act by introducing proof of Janos Slynt's corruption to Jon Arryn, who attempted to prosecute him. Although Robert refused, Lysa, as the Hand of the Queen, would have continued the pursuit, knowing that Jon Arryn would seek justice for his perceived wrongful treatment.

Littlefinger's Motivation

Littlefinger knew about Jon Arryn's investigation regarding the Lannister Twins. By involving himself in the assassination, Littlefinger risked the lives of his cronies, the integrity of his bribing system, and perhaps even his own life. His decision to act now, not later, was driven by the risk to his own survival. As Janos Slynt could potentially sell him out to protect himself, Littlefinger saw this as a necessary risk to avoid the same fate. Through manipulation and lies, Varys encouraged Littlefinger to act, knowing that this would protect Varys's own interests.

In conclusion, while it is not definitively known that Varys knew the specific involvement of Littlefinger and Lysa, the evidence suggests that he likely had some awareness or strong suspicions about their involvement. Varys's political acumen and intricate network of intelligence make it a plausible scenario that he was well-informed about the true circumstances of Jon Arryn's death.