Robert Baratheon: Beyond Cersei Lannister - Alternative Marital Scenarios and Their Impact on Westeros

The marriage of Robert Baratheon to Cersei Lannister is a pivotal point in the intricate narrative of A Song of Ice and Fire. This marriage not only secured political alliances but also reshaped the socio-political landscape of Westeros. But what if Robert had chosen a different bride? Who would the historical timeline of Westeros have looked like? Let's delve into the hypothetical scenario of Robert's marital choices and explore the potential implications on the story.

Alternative Marriage Options for Robert Baratheon

During the time of Robert's marriage, several eligible highborn women were considered. Some of the names that immediately come to mind include:

Elia Martell Cersei Lannister Lyanna Stark Ashara Dayne The Tully Sisters (Catelyn and Lysa) Maege Mormont Jeor Mormont

However, Cersei was the only one chosen as a suitable bride for Robert. Why? Let's explore this further.

Why Cersei Lannister?

Cersei Lannister was the daughter of Tywin Lannister, the richest and most powerful noble in the Seven Kingdoms. Tywin Lannister secured the marriage, which meant that Cersei entered the marriage with substantial political and economic benefits:

Economic Stability: The Lannisters were the wealthiest family in Westeros, bringing immense wealth and resources to the marriage. Political Alliances: Marrying into the Lannister family strengthened Robert's political standing and provided him with influential allies. Strategic Position: The Lannisters, especially Tywin, had the power to influence Robert's decisions, ensuring that he wouldn't veer too far from their interests.

However, if Robert had chosen a different bride, the political and social landscapes of Westeros would have heavily shifted.

Marriage to Elia Martell

Elia Martell was another candidate for Robert. Both Elia and Cersei were of similar age, making them suitable choices:

Implications of Robert Marrying Elia Martell

Diplomatic Relations: Marriage to Elia would have strengthened relations between the Martell and Baratheon families, aligning their interests. Targaryen Loyalty: Elia had a son who was the rightful heir to the Iron Throne, and her marriage to Robert would have been a significant challenge to the Targaryens. Potential Civil War: Given Elia's proximity to the throne, her marriage to Robert could have intensified the civil war and drawn more lords to the rebellion.

Marriage to a Northern Lady

The North, known for its practical and no-nonsense approach, would have been another possible choice for Robert:

Implications of Robert Marrying a Northwoman

Stability and Prudence: A Northwoman would have demanded practical solutions and been less inclined to extravagant spending, providing stability to Robert's reign. Children's Lineage: Robert would have had a higher chance of having trueborn children, securing his line and the Baratheon dynasty. Reputation and Influence: A Northwoman would challenge Robert's traditional Southern ways, making him more accountable and less arrogant.

Marriage to a Reach Lady

The Reach, being supposedly loyal to the Targaryens, could also have been a potential bride:

Implications of Robert Marrying a Reach Lady

Securing Loyalties: The Reach could have been brought into the rebellion if a Reach lady became queen, aligning their interests with the Baratheon cause. Power Dynamics: A Reach lady would have the standing to negotiate significant alliances and influence the political landscape of Westeros. Dependable Economic Support: The Reach's wealth and resources would have bolstered Robert's coffers, allowing for better economic stability.

Given these potential outcomes, the marriage of Robert Baratheon to Cersei Lannister was a strategic move that brought numerous benefits. Other choices might have led to different alliances, shifting power dynamics, and altering the story's trajectory.

Would Robert marrying Elia Martell have stabilized the kingdoms or ignited a civil war? Could a marriage to a Northerner have provided the stability needed for the Baratheon reign? The possibilities are vast, and each choice offers a unique narrative path for the series.

Thus, the marriage of Robert Baratheon to Cersei Lannister was a critical decision that shaped the future of Westeros. Other choices would have certainly had their own impacts, redefining the socio-political landscape and altering the course of events.