The Love Triangle of Lyanna Stark: Did She Really Love Rhaegar More Than Robert or Ned?

Lyanna Stark, the beloved sister-in-law in Game of Thrones, has long been a subject of impassioned debate. Did she love Rhaegar Targaryen more than Robert Baratheon or Ned Stark? Let's delve into the evidence provided by the books to uncover the truth behind her emotional entanglements.

Lyanna Didn't Love Robert

Let's start with the easier conclusion: Lyanna didn't love Robert. Picture yourself in her shoes. You're bound to marry your brother's best friend, a man known for his charms, excessive drinking, and a penchant for war. Just imagine your reaction to this news—you might not be thrilled to tie the knot. The books suggest that Lyanna was perfectly content when she first learned of her betrothal to Robert Baratheon. She probably felt as much disdain for him as he felt for her. Robert, after all, is described as a "handsome drunken brute."

The Mysterious Case of Lyanna and Rhaegar

Now, the case of Lyanna and Rhaegar is a whole different ballgame. The books are ambiguous about her feelings for him. It's widely believed that Lyanna was abducted by Rhaegar, leading to her suspicious death in the Tower of Joy. Was she in love, or was Rhaegar using her? Or was she kidnapped and raped? We can only speculate until GRRM (George R.R. Martin) reveals the true story.

Rhaegar and Lyanna: Star-Crossed Lovers

However, the evidence leaning towards Rhaegar is strong. We know that Prince Rhaegar named Lyanna his Queen of Love and Beauty, and even named the place where they were hiding, 'the Tower of Joy.' More tellingly, he died calling out her name. Lyanna, on the other hand, died clutching dead rose petals, likely given to her by Rhaegar before he went to war. She asked her brother, Ned, to protect their child, even as she gave up her life. These actions suggest a deep, emotional connection between Rhaegar and Lyanna.

Platonic Love for Ned

Moreover, Ned's and Lyanna's bond was a different kind of love: a brotherly love that was deep and protective. Relying on numerous instances from the books, it's clear that Ned cherished his sister deeply. Regardless of the political marriages that brought them together, their bond centered on mutual care and support. Ned went to great lengths to protect Lyanna's child, even at the cost of his own honor—a testament to their brotherly love.

Conclusion: Lyanna's Complicated Love Triangles

In conclusion, the evidence strongly suggests that Lyanna didn't love Robert and was in love with Rhaegar. Their relationship was undoubtedly a turbulent and tragic one. For Ned, she was his sister first and foremost, and their bond was unspoken and unwavering. While we may never know the true story, these details from the books give us a clearer picture of Lyanna Stark's love triangles.