The Potential Impact of Tommen Being Fostered at Highgarden: An Analytical Approach

Tommen Baratheon, the younger brother to Cersei Lannister and Joffrey Baratheon, is a pivotal figure in the story of Game of Thrones. Born just a few years before the events of the series begin in the renowned A Song of Ice and Fire series, Tommen is 7-years-old when his story as a main character unfolds. By the time the fourth book in the series A Dance with Dragons is published, he is 8-9 years old. This timeline raises an intriguing question: what if Tommen had been fostered at Highgarden? This article explores the potential effects and implications of such a scenario on the story's development and the broader political climate in Westeros.

Realistic Timing and Fosterage in Westeros

Fosterage in Westeros is a common practice that often begins for young nobles around the age of 7 or 8. Given Tommen's age at the start of the series, if he were to be fostered, it would likely occur sometime around the time his older brother Joffrey takes the throne. However, the narrative timeline of the books and the television series makes this particularly challenging. Tommen is 7 when A Game of Thrones begins, and by the events of A Dance with Dragons, he is around 8-9 years old. This means that by the time he would be a suitable candidate for fosterage, it is already well into his life as the king.

The practical considerations of fostering a king cannot be overlooked. In the world of Game of Thrones, the concept of a king has significant connotations. Joffrey, despite his tyranny and malice, is already a king; fostering him would be meaningless and impractical. A similar consideration would apply to Tommen: he is already the king and would be the paramount figure in any fosterage scenario.

The Strategic Alliances and Political Implications

Highgarden, the seat of the House Tyrell, is a vast and powerful bastion in the Reach. Its strategic importance cannot be overstated, especially given its bountiful wealth and vast military might. If Tommen had been fostered at Highgarden, it would significantly alter the dynamics of the political climate. The House Tyrell would gain even more influence and could potentially gain a more direct role in the succession and governance of Westeros.

Moreover, the Tyrells would have a say in Tommen's upbringing, which would be a form of indirect control over the king. This increased political leverage could overshadow the Lannisters and other conservative factions. Additionally, the Tyrells might be more inclined to support Tommen's reign if their own influence and privileges were secured through his fosterage. This could be a key factor in preventing a coup or significant conflict over the throne.

Alternative Political Realities and Conflicts

On the other hand, the concept of fostering a king at Highgarden introduces several complications. The House Tyrell's power would be further consolidated, leading to potential conflicts with other noble houses such as the Lannisters and the Starks. This could spark a new round of civil wars or power struggles.

Furthermore, the idea of a fostered Tommen could be perceived as a threat to the established order. Other noble families might see this as a way for the House Tyrell to exert undue influence over the king, leading to resentment and resistance. This could result in a backlash from other powerful families who feel disenfranchised or marginalized by the Tyrells' growing dominance.

The Cultural and Emotional Impact

The emotional and cultural impact of fostering Tommen at Highgarden would also be significant. The series has already explored the themes of loss and trauma, especially through Lannister characters. The idea of a young king being separated from his family and placed under the care of a powerful and influential house could be a deeply affecting narrative choice. It might explore complex themes of trust, loyalty, and the costs of political alliances.

Additionally, the fosterage would introduce a new layer of complexity to the relationships between the main characters. Tommen would have to navigate the expectations and pressures of a powerful host family while also maintaining his royal duties. This could lead to a mix of tension, misunderstanding, and ultimately, a deeper understanding of the political and social structures in Westeros.

Conclusion

The hypothetical scenario of Tommen being fostered at Highgarden presents a fascinating exploration of the dynamics between power, influence, and political relationships in Westeros. While it is impossible to definitively answer what would have transpired, the potential ramifications of such a scenario offer a rich storyline filled with intrigue, conflict, and emotional depth. The idea not only enriches the existing narrative but also invites readers and viewers to reimagine the world of Game of Thrones and its complex web of alliances, betrayals, and destinies.