Introduction

"Did not Robert Baratheon ensure proper education for his children, Joffrey, Tommen, and Myrcella?" This question has long puzzled viewers of Game of Thrones, inviting debate and analysis around the character of Robert Baratheon and the educational standards of the wealthy and powerful in Westeros.

The Myths and Reality of Myrcella's Education

Many fans of the series believe that Myrcella Baratheon received an inferior education compared to what she would have needed as a princess destined to rule. Indeed, Myrcella is often touted as a perfect embodiment of a princess who would make an excellent queen. From a historical perspective, Joffrey and Myrcella's education was undoubtedly not the worst in Westeros, as they were afforded the best resources available to the royal family. Yet, their education did not prepare them for the complex and often treacherous world they inhabited.

Joffrey: A Sociopath's Lack of Interest in Education

Joffrey Baratheon, in contrast, is renowned for his sociopathic tendencies, including a disdain for education. Despite the best efforts of the Lannister family to cultivate a sense of perfect royal perfection in him, Joffrey openly resisted any form of mental exercises or educational pursuits. His mother, Cersei Lannister, played a significant role in this, reinforcing the belief that he was perfect and needed no further improvement. This groomed him to be arrogant, ignorant, and highly insecure. Despite his young age, Joffrey showed a passable grasp of historical knowledge, but he did not consistently apply that knowledge in practice.

Tommen: A Youthful and Vulnerable Case

Tommen Baratheon was a different character entirely. As the youngest sibling, his education and personality were significantly influenced by the actions of his older siblings, particularly Joffrey and Cersei. Young and impressionable, Tommen was abused both emotionally and physically. This abuse severely impacted his self-esteem and his ability to assert himself. His educational background is less clear, but evidence suggests that he was not adequately prepared to rule. Like Joffrey, Tommen lacked the confidence and resilience to stand up for himself, making him more vulnerable to manipulation by others.

Robert Baratheon's Approach to Fatherhood and Leadership

On a broader scale, Robert Baratheon’s approach to fatherhood mirrored his approach to kingship. He was a negligent and disinterested father, barely caring about the well-being of his children. In the absence of his care, the responsibility for proper education fell to others, such as the siblings themselves (particularly Joffrey and Cersei) or to advisors and tutors. Robert’s preoccupation with being a warrior, which aligns with his belief in what he values most, often overshadowed his role as a king and father.

Conclusion

Robert Baratheon’s shortcomings as a father extend to his failure to provide proper education for his children. His indifference to their upbringing and the subsequent nurturing of Joffrey and Tommen’s weaknesses highlights the broader issue of parental neglect in the series. The rebellious and insecure nature of Joffrey and Tommen’s characters serves as a poignant commentary on the legacy of a king who prioritized immediate gratification over long-term responsibility.