Lyanna Stark and Robert Baratheon: A Misunderstood Love Story

Myths and Facts about Lyanna and Robert's Relationship

When examining the relationship between Lyanna Stark and Robert Baratheon, one cannot help but be struck by the complexity and the numerous myths that surround their connection. Many believe that Lyanna had feelings for Robert, or that he was a good husband to her. However, the truth is far more nuanced, and the facts do not support these notions.

It is widely known within the series that Lyanna Stark never harbored any real feelings for Robert Baratheon. They only met once, and that too in a formal setting at Harrenhal. Since then, she despised Robert, a sentiment that stemmed from her discovery of his illegitimate daughter, Mya Stone. This revelation painting Robert in a rather less appealing light, likely contributed to the animosity Lyanna felt towards him.

The Betrothal and Pyrrhic Support

Lyanna and Robert's relationship began with their betrothal, not a marriage. The idea of a formal union between them was primarily initiated by Ned Stark, who feared that a union with Lyanna would strengthen Robert's position in the political landscape. Ned even brought the proposal to Winterfell, where Lyanna's father, Rickard Stark, was open to the idea of betrothing Lyanna to Robert, who was then the young lord of Storm's End.

However, Lyanna was not blinded by romance or the idea of family union. The night before the formal betrothal, Lyanna confided in Ned that she knew the reputation of Robert and that he would not be able to keep to 'one bed'. She even mentioned rumors of Robert's illegitimate child in the Vale, a piece of gossip that reinforced her concerns about his fidelity. Despite Ned's attempts to persuade her that Roberts past actions were insignificant, Lyanna remained cautious, asserting that 'Love can not change a man's nature.'

Final Thoughts and the Truth Unveiled

While many mistakenly believe that the kidnapping of Lyanna by Rhaegar Targaryen led to their relationship, the truth is far different. If we follow the events of the series, particularly the timeline and the revelations from the books, it is evident that Lyanna was kidnapped by Rhaegar, but she did not enter into the relationship with Robert under the guise of love. Instead, she was married to him and had a son named Aegon. These events further confirm that Lyanna did not hold any romantic feelings for Robert Baratheon.

In conclusion, the relationship between Lyanna Stark and Robert Baratheon is a deeply misunderstood and misrepresented one. It began with political alliances and ended without love. The untimely death of Lyanna, the controversial status of Jon Snow, and the legend of Aegon hint at a much more complex story than the myths allow us to believe.