Popularity of Cersei at King's Landing

The character of Cersei Lannister from the Game of Thrones series is often scrutinized for her various actions and the impact they had on her standing among the court and the people of King's Landing. While it may be argued that she wasn't always an unpopular figure, she certainly wasn't beloved either. This exploration delves into her popularity and the reasons behind her perceived unpopularity over time.

Challenges with Cersei's Popularity

While Cersei was undoubtedly beautiful and her family's wealth and status made her a figure to be kept in good grace, she wasn't always seen as a beloved person. Her culture of fear and manipulation meant that she garnered support not through genuine kindness but through creating an atmosphere of terror. Her strategic choices and the lack of a genuine court of companions certainly contributed to her isolated position.

Public Perception and Court Relations

Cersei's methods of governance and interpersonal relations were predicated on fear rather than goodwill. She surrounded herself with lickspittles such as Lysa Arryn and Petyr Baelish, individuals provoked with kindness only to be struck down for reinforcement of her dominance. This style of leadership was appreciated by some but alienated others, creating a divided court.

Fickle Popularity of King's Landing

King's Landing, the capital city of the Seven Kingdoms, is known for its fickle nature. Despite the Targaryens' construction of the city with its massive walls and strategic position as the capital, King's Landing has been known to rebel against authority. This stubborn loyalty to a ruling house is illustrated by their quick shift in allegiance in response to threats. Furthermore, King's Landing's religious fervor and fanaticism further complicate the dynamics, as seen during the rebellion against the Targaryens where a religious prophet led a disastrous uprising.

Rebellion Against the Targaryens and the Shepherd

The rebellion against the Targaryens, led by a man called the Shepherd, who was a prophet and a begging brother, is a prime example of the city's fickle nature and religious devotion. The sheer audacity of fighting against four dragons in a closed compartment, leading to heavy casualties, highlights the city's reckless behavior and religious fanaticism. This rebellion is notable for the construction of the largest and most beautiful sept in all of Westeros, which stands as a testament to the religious fervor of the populace.

Evolving Perceptions During the War and Siege

During the Great War, Cersei Lannister faced significant challenges in maintaining popular support. Her principal weapon in these trying times was her fear-based leadership and craven manipulation. Despite initial support from the common folk, her family's military support and astute strategies ultimately led to a darker fate. The war saw the path of least resistance, with the kingdom's defenses crumbling under Joffrey's incompetence and the strategic move to close the Roseroad, leading to mass starvation in King's Landing.

The Impact of the Siege and The Faith Militant

One of Cersei's most daring moves was to rearm the Faith Militant, essentially weaponizing the believe system. This proved to be a critical blunder, as the support she once commanded from the Faith began to turn against her. Once the Faith Militant became a force against her, the game was effectively over, as she had lost the only support that could have ensured her survival.

Thus, while Cersei Lannister had initial support due to her beauty, her husband's role in ensuring the welfare of the people, and her family's power, her strategic and personal nature made it difficult for her to maintain a lasting and favorable reputation in King's Landing.