Sansa's Strategic Shift in ‘Game of Thrones’: A Prelude to Protecting the North from Daenerys

The Game of Thrones finale series, consisting of eight episodes, has sparked numerous discussions about the future of its characters. One notable subplot is Sansa Stark's growing inclination towards political scheming, particularly regarding her potential efforts to protect the North from Daenerys Targaryen. This shift is not a sudden one but rather a culmination of her experiences throughout the series.

Education and Manipulation

Sansa's transformation into a schemer and manipulator is notably influenced by her years of education and abuse under the tutelage of Cersei Lannister and Petyr Baelish (Littlefinger). These experiences have honed her skills in negotiation and manipulation. For instance, during the Battle of the Bastards, Sansa chose not to inform Jon about the potential support she could gather from the Vale, displaying strategic independence and a willingness to act in her own interests.

Following Jon’s election as King, Sansa’s interactions with Littlefinger and her subsequent realizations indicate a transition in her character. This transition is either a sense of unspoken acknowledgment of Littlefinger’s role in securing Jon’s throne or an awakening of her own power and influence. Regardless, her disregard for Jon's repeated disregard for her advice highlights a growing ambition to assert her own will.

The Desire to Expel Daenerys

Sansa’s scheming is not motivated by a concern for Daenerys's governance or the well-being of the Seven Kingdoms. Her primary goal is to remove Daenerys from power to protect the North. This desire is evident in her actions and decision-making, reflecting a deep-seated desire for the North's safety and independence. The episode "Battle of the Bastards" foreshadowed this, as Sansa showed a readiness to form alliances and make difficult decisions, even when it meant betraying her familial loyalties.

Challenges and Ambitions

The question remains: What price is Sansa willing to pay to achieve her goals? Her history as a character who is not inclined towards negotiation and compromise suggests that she may be willing to betray Jon, her beloved brother, to secure the North’s future. This betrayal, however, complicates her character further, making her a more complex and morally ambiguous figure.

Daenerys's Ambitions and Sansa's Goals

Daenerys Targaryen’s ambition to claim the Iron Throne sets her on a collision course with Sansa. If Daenerys were to agree to leave the North independent and without challenge, Sansa would likely accept this deal. However, Daenerys’s insatiable thirst for power and control makes such an agreement unlikely. This fundamental difference in their goals is what will drive the conflict between them.

Support from Allies

Several characters are likely to side with the North. Jon, despite his personal and political conflicts with Daenerys, may face a turning point where his loyalty to the North overrides his feelings for his beloved queen. Jorah Mormont, who has consistently tried to advise Daenerys with his criticism devoid of dragonfire, could play a crucial role in the impending decision. His fate in the series remains uncertain, but his resilience and integrity make him a character whose loyalties are significant.

The episode also highlighted the strategic preparations that Sansa had made long before this critical juncture. She was the prepared one, ready to take action to secure the North's future. Sam Tarly, another ally, is likely to support Sansa, further strengthening the North's resolve.

Conclusion

Sansa's strategic shift towards protecting the North from Daenerys is a pivotal moment in the series. This move reflects her transformation from a naive and vulnerable character into a powerful and cunning leader. The conflict between Sansa and Daenerys is poised to be one of the most significant narratives in the series, offering a rich tapestry of political intrigue, family loyalty, and the struggle for power.

As the final episodes of Game of Thrones unfold, viewers can expect a thrilling and complex storyline that will test the loyalty and resolve of its characters. The battle between Sansa and Daenerys will be more than a fight for a crown; it will be a battle for the survival and independence of the North.