How Would Varys Rate Queen Sansa as a Monarch?

Given Varys' criteria on what makes a good monarch, it is fascinating to speculate on how he would perceive Queen Sansa Stark. The character of Varys, whose true intentions are often ambiguous, presents an intriguing perspective for evaluating Sansa's leadership qualities. Historically, Varys emphasized stability, pragmatism, and the well-being of the common people as essential qualities in a ruler. Let's explore whether Sansa aligns with Varys' ideal monarchy.

Defining Varys' Criteria for a Good Monarch

Varys, known for his intricate and often secretive methods, has a set of criteria that he uses to assess potential rulers. According to him, a good monarch does not need to be morally perfect but must not spread misery or cruelty across the land. Additionally, such a ruler should have some degree of concern for the commoners. Moreover, the monarch must be capable of intimidating the nobles without resorting to extreme tactics.

Queen Sansa: A Champion of the Common People

King Renly Baratheon once described Sansa as thin and cold, hinting at her gentle and sympathetic nature. Throughout her journey, Sansa has consistently shown a deep concern for the welfare of her people. Her pragmatism is evident in her approach to governance. For example, she resorted to installing a ruler in the North who she knew would not betray her, reflecting her shrewd decision-making skills. This demonstrates her ability to deliver food warmth and security to her people, a quality highly valued by Varys.

Sansa's Intimidating Presence

One of the key qualities Varys emphasizes is the ability to intimidate the nobility. Sansa's performance in this area is particularly noteworthy. When faced with rebellious generals who dare to name her queen, she effectively silenced them with a single sentence. This action not only demonstrated her leadership but also her ability to command respect. Unlike the harsh and rigid stance of Stannis Baratheon, Sansa's manner is often gentle yet resolute, balancing gentleness with strength.

Strength and Gentleness Balanced

Varys' ideal monarch is described as someone who is "stronger than Tommen and gentler than Stannis." Considering these qualities, it seems that Sansa fits this description quite well. She is neither as weak and indecisive as Tommen nor as uncompromising and ruthless as Stannis. Sansa's leadership is characterized by a balance of strength and gentleness, which is precisely where her true strength lies.

Furthermore, Sansa's commitment to stability and her ability to bring a sense of normalcy to the North after her mother's death align with Varys' criteria. She is not a figure who seeks to spread fire and blood but rather one who wants to maintain order and security. This underscores her value in the eyes of the common people and the nobles, who are more likely to respect a ruler who is concerned with their well-being.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if we consider Varys' criteria for a good monarch, Queen Sansa Stark would likely be viewed favorably. She meets the essential requirements of a ruler who is compassionate towards the common people, capable of intimidating the nobles, and balances strength with gentleness. While she may not fit Varys' criteria perfectly, her pragmatic and compassionate approach to governance places her in a favorable light when compared to other leaders in the series.

Keywords: Varys, Sansa Stark, Monarch Criteria, Rules of Governance, Character Analysis