Sherlock Holmes Meets Westeros: Who Would You Choose to Command Your Army?

In the world of Westeros, there are numerous commanders vying for command. If you were forced to choose one and could only pick from a few, who would you select? Let's explore this question through the lens of Sherlock Holmes' methods of deduction. Keep in mind that this is a purely subjective evaluation, and your preferences and opinions may vary.

Eliminating the Incompetent

Firstly, we can eliminate several commanders based on their clear failings. Mace Tyrell, Kevan Lannister, Tywin Lannister, and Roose Bolton each have significant drawbacks that make them poor choices. Mace Tyrell suffers from a combination of incompetence and self-importance. While he can provide arms, armor, and supplies, his competence as a commander leaves much to be desired. Similarly, Kevan and Tywin Lannister are not competent commanders. Kevan excels as a statesman and can handle the civilian aspects of a campaign, but Tywin is simply not good at anything, whether as a statesman or a commander. Tywin's cruelty and shortsightedness make him an unwise leader. As for Roose Bolton, while he is not as untrustworthy as some claim, he might bleed you dry of men and plot your assassination if he feels you are not going to win the war.

Remaining Options and Their Qualities

By process of elimination, we are left with Stannis Baratheon, Randyll Tarly, Eddard Stark, and Robb Stark. Randyll Tarly is often underestimated, yet he is the one who did the work Mace claimed as his own. However, Stannis Baratheon, Eddard Stark, and Robb Stark each have unique qualities that make them stand out.

Stannis Baratheon: The Strategic Mind

If you were conducting a naval campaign, Stannis Baratheon would be your top choice. His strategic mind and administrative skills make him well-suited to such operations. If you were focusing on a defensive campaign, Stannis would again be the ideal commander due to his cautious and calculated approach. Stannis is known for his patience and long-term planning, which are critical in defending lands and resources from an enemy.

Eddard Stark: The Ethical Commander

When facing an offensive coalition where you are just one of the main players, Eddard Stark would be the best choice. Ned Stark leads with honor and integrity, making him a trusted ally. His strong ethical principles and balanced leadership style ensure that his troops and allies remain loyal and motivated. He is also known for his fairness and respect for the rule of law.

Robb Stark: The Offensive Strategist

If your situation calls for an offensive coalition and you need flashy tactics and one-in-a-million gambits that somehow pay off, Robb Stark would be your best option. Robb is known for his bold and sometimes risky tactics, making him an excellent choice for a situation where you are outnumbered. His ability to strike quickly and unpredictably can be a game-changer on the battlefield.

Conclusion

The choice of who to command your army ultimately comes down to the situation you find yourself in. Each commander has unique strengths and weaknesses that make them better suited for different types of campaigns. Whether you need a strategic mind, ethical leadership, or bold tactics, there is a commander who can help you achieve your goals. Remember, this is a subjective evaluation, and your mileage may vary.

By following the methods of Sherlock Holmes and using the process of elimination, you can make an informed decision about who to command your army. Whether it's Stannis, Eddard, or Robb, each has the potential to lead you to victory.