Should Tyrion Lannister Have Won the Game of Thrones?

With the sweeping narrative of A Song of Ice and Fire, the character of Tyrion Lannister has captivated audiences worldwide. However, one question often arises: should Tyrion have won the Game of Thrones? Let's delve into the reasons why, both within the narrative and from a fan perspective, this may not be the best outcome.

The Show vs. the Books: Different Tyrions

Firstly, let's address the tension between the show and the books. In the television adaptation, Tyrion is portrayed as a more sympathetic and likable character, whereas in the books, he is often seen as a flawed and morally ambiguous figure. This difference significantly influences how viewers perceive his suitability to be king.

Character Flaws and Kinghood

There are several reasons why Tyrion should not have been king:

Trusted Hand, Not Trustworthy King: Tyrion served as the Hand of the King under Daenerys Targaryen, but his actions and decisions during his tenure were not in the best interest of the realm. He was a terrible Hand, and it's difficult to believe that the realm would want another Lannister in charge. Kinslaying: Tyrion killed his own father in order to save himself, making him a kinslayer, which is a trait considered unforgivable in Westeros. While Tywin Lannister was a problem, the realm would not reward such behavior. Control and Responsibility: When Daenerys went nuclear on King's Landing, Tyrion, as a Hand, could not control her actions. This inability to manage the queen's impetuous nature would make him an unsuitable king.

Fan Perspective and Storytelling

From a fan perspective, some argue that Tyrion's rise to the position of Hand to Daenerys feels like a fan service ending. It was Bran Stark who made the choice, and despite the strong bond Bran and Tyrion shared, it still felt like a rushed or convenient decision. Fans wonder if it would be more meaningful for Tyrion to earn the position through actions rather than simply being chosen.

Tyrion: A More Dark and Complex Character in the Books

However, it's worth noting that the character of Tyrion in the books is far more complex and darker than his television counterpart. His actions are often motivated by a profound sense of victimhood and a desire to prove his worth. He is:

Inferiority Complex: Tyrion has a strong inferiority complex, which has shaped his personality. He sees himself as small and insignificant and often shifts the blame for his failures onto others. Egoistic and Self-Centric: He is very self-centered, as evidenced by his behavior in various scenes where he prioritizes his own needs over others. For instance, when Sansa mentions that her food is not cooked well, Tyrion focuses more on himself and eats even more food, showing a lack of empathy and consideration. Manipulative and Vile: Tyrion’s actions in the books, such as his betrayal of Shae and his attempted rape of Sansa, showcase a more unhinged and manipulative side. He often manipulates situations to protect himself, even at the expense of others.

Consequences of Tyrion’s Behavior

Tyrion’s flawed decisions and actions have significant consequences for the story. He is not the clever and strategic thinker some fans might believe. His advice, while sometimes beneficial, can also lead to dire outcomes. For example, his supposed cleverness in dealing with Falcen is overshadowed by the fact that his actions may hurt Daenerys in the long run.

Conclusion: A More Earned Victory

While Tyrion's rise to power in the show was a dramatic story arc, it feels more like a convenient fan service ending rather than a merited one. The realm would surely not reward such behaviors, and Tyrion's character flaws make him a poor candidate for the throne. Fans may want a more earned victory in the books, where Tyrion’s journey and actions truly reflect his character and justify his position as a ruler.