The Meaning Behind Tyrion Lannister's Gift of the Lannister Pendant to Ros in Game of Thrones

Introduction:

In the complex world of Game of Thrones, Tyrion Lannister stands out as a character with a deep sense of humanity and moral integrity. One of the most poignant and symbolic moments in the show comes when he gifts the Lannister pendant to Ros. This act, which occurs in Season 2, is more than a simple gesture; it carries significant emotional weight and thematic depth. This article delves into the context, significance, and the ulterior motivations behind this pivotal moment.

The Context and Significance of the Lannister Pendant

During Season 2 of Game of Thrones, Tyrion Lannister steps into the role of Hand of the King, navigating the treacherous political landscape of King's Landing. The Lannister pendant, a symbol of the family's power and heritage, becomes a powerful tool in his interactions with those around him. This gesture holds multiple layers of meaning:

Connection through Respect: The pendant serves as a gesture of goodwill and respect towards Ros, a courtesan who has gained his trust. Recognition of Agency: Unlike many others in court, Tyrion recognizes Ros's intelligence and value beyond the narrow confines of her social status. Complexity of Character: It highlights Tyrion's character as someone who, despite being a member of a powerful and often cruel family, seeks to treat others with kindness and respect.

The Ulterior Motivation: A Sassy Middle Finger to Tywin

While the act appears to be a genuine gesture of goodwill, the very act of giving the Lannister sigil to a whore, especially Ros, carries significant ulterior motives. This act serves as a rebellion against his own father, Tywin Lannister, who is known for his disdain towards Tyrion's behavior and his love for the Lannister sigil. The following quote from Tywin further underscores this:

And to teach me humility the gods have condemned me to watch you waddle about wearing that proud lion that was my father's sigil and his father's before him. But neither gods nor men will ever compel me to let you turn Casterly Rock into your whorehouse. Go now. Speak no more of your rights to Casterly Rock. Go. Oh one more thing. The next whore I catch in your bed, I'll hang.

Tyrion's act is a clear and strong rebellion against Tywin's domineering nature. By giving the Lannister pendant to Ros, he is essentially sending a middle finger to his father, highlighting the tension and conflict between them.

The Timeline and Circumstances

The gift of the Lannister pendant to Ros actually takes place during a significantly earlier period in the series. This event is first mentioned in Season 1, Episode 6, titled A Golden Crown. At this moment, Ros is still in Winterfell, and Theon Greyjoy is taking her to King's Landing. It is during this journey that Ros starts wearing the pendant, and she tells Theon that it was a gift from Tyrion.

However, the pivotal moment in question is more prominently featured in Season 2. During this time, Cersei Lannister captures Ros, and through a misunderstanding, she believes that her brother Tyrion is secretly in love with Ros because Ros wears the Lannister pendant. This mistake likely saved Tyrion's real love, Shae, from Cersei's wrath.

Conclusion

The gift of the Lannister pendant to Ros is a multifaceted moment in Game of Thrones. It represents a display of respect, recognition of agency, and a rebellion against his father. It underscores Tyrion's complex character and his ability to navigate the treacherous political landscape of King's Landing with grace and dignity.