The Not-So-Dramatic King: An Analysis of Tommen Baratheon

Tommen Baratheon, one of the key figures in George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series and the TV adaptation Game of Thrones, stands out as one of the most underappreciated and harshestly criticized characters among fans and critics alike. In this article, we will delve into why Tommen often appears as one of the most useless characters in the show and explore his character development throughout the series.

Introduction to Tommen Baratheon

Tommen Baratheon (played by Sam Worthington) was crowned king after the deaths of both Joffrey and Stannis. Despite being a figure of nobility and prominence, he is often portrayed as a reluctant and often overlooked king, overshadowed by his regal duties and the expectations from his subjects and advisors.

Tommen: The Most Useless King

Tommen is often considered one of the weakest and most ineffective rulers in the history of the Westeros. His tenure as king was marked by indecision and inaction, leading to many challenges for the realm. Here are a few key reasons why he often appears as one of the most useless characters:

Reluctant Reign: Tommen takes the throne with great reluctance, never fully embracing his role as king. He is frequently depicted as an insecure and fearful youth, struggling to come to terms with his responsibilities. Margery Tyrell's Influence: His marriage to Margaery Tyrell, a political alliance designed to strengthen his hold on the throne, is often criticized for leading Tommen to be more absorbed in courtly life and less engaged in the governance of the realm. Weakness as a King: Tommen is often portrayed as weak-willed and easily swayed by others, particularly Cersei Lannister, who manipulates him for her own political gain. His indecisiveness and lack of strong leadership contribute to the many crises that arise during his reign. Relationship with Cersei: His relationship with his mother, Cersei Lannister, is tainted by her manipulation and control, further detracting from his ability to govern effectively. Tommen is seen as a pawn in her schemes, with little real agency.

Character Development and His Impact on the Story

While Tommen is often portrayed as weak and ineffective, his character development throughout the series does offer moments of intrigue and growth. Here's a look at how his story arc evolves and impacts the narrative:

Political Power Struggles: Tommen's early indecisiveness puts the realm in peril, leading to internal conflicts and external threats. His relationship with Cersei and Petyr Baelish becomes a pivotal storyline, reflecting the struggle for power within the royal family and the broader political landscape of Westeros. Romantic Tensions: Tommen's romantic story arc with Margaery Tyrell, while often a source of criticism from fans, adds depth to his character. The passion and intensity of their relationship, which includes some of the show's most memorable scenes, highlight the complexity of his character and the challenges he faces in a courtly life. Growth and Transformation: Despite his initial portrayal, Tommen undergoes a transformation over the course of the series. His interactions with Jamie Lannister, his struggle to find his own path, and his eventual decisive moments, particularly towards the end of the series, suggest a character that is beginning to find his own voice and strength.

Conclusion

Tommen Baratheon remains a polarizing character in both the books and the TV show. While he is often criticized for his perceived weakness, his story arc offers a rich tapestry of political intrigue, personal growth, and moral dilemmas. Whether seen as a wasted potential or a stepping stone for larger narrative purposes, Tommen Baratheon's character certainly leaves a lasting impression on fans of Game of Thrones.