The Strategic Concern of Varys: Why He Cared If Daenerys Had Eaten in Game of Thrones S8E5

In the highly anticipated finale of Game of Thrones Season 8, Episode 5, Varys's concern over Daenerys Targaryen's well-being is not merely a personal gesture; it is a strategic move rooted in his extensive knowledge of political dynamics and the potential consequences of a ruler's unstable state.

Context and Consequences

Stress and Pressure: Following the tragic death of Missandei and the loss of support from key allies, Daenerys is under immense pressure. Varys understands the critical influence her state of mind can have on her decision-making and the morale of her followers. Leadership Continuity: By staying or suggesting that Daenerys eats, Varys ensures she remains in a sound state of mind, crucial for maintaining the stability of her rule and the safety of the realm. Manipulating Political Circumstances: As a master of political manipulation, Varys is keen to gauge Daenerys's vulnerability. A ruler in an unstable mental state could make choices that lead to chaos, endangering the realm. Historical Precedent: Varys is acutely aware of the Targaryens' history, including their tendency towards instability and dangerous behavior. He recalls instances of Daenerys showing signs of isolation, jealousy, and bitterness, which are telltale signs of an unstable mental state.

His actions are emblematic of his broader concerns about Daenerys's ability to lead effectively during turbulent times. This moment underscores his deep understanding of power dynamics and the delicate balance required to maintain a stable and effective leadership.

Subtext and Motivations

Varys's concern about Daenerys eating is not without deeper motivations:

Monitoring Mental Health: Failing to eat can indicate a spiraling mental state, a common sign of deteriorating well-being. Varys is attentive to any such signs that may signal Daenerys's fragility and the potential for her to make rash decisions. Strategic Poisoning: There is a darker possibility that Varys is plotting to poison Daenerys. This would ensure that another civil war is avoided, allowing Jon to assume the throne. This strategy aligns with Varys's long-stated belief that poison is the weapon of women and eunuchs, as mentioned by Mance Rayder. Past Behavior: Varys recalls the actions of previous Targaryens, including Aerys Targaryen, demonstrating instability and dangerous behavior. His strategy is informed by a deep understanding of their historical behavior and the potential for Daenerys to follow a similar path.

By ensuring Daenerys maintains a stable state of mind, Varys aims to prevent a power vacuum that could lead to chaos or the rise of his preferred candidate, Jon Snow.

The Significance of the Moment

The concern over Daenerys eating represents a pivotal moment in the series, highlighting the intricate layers of the political landscape and the complex motivations of the characters. Varys's actions demonstrate the delicate balance between personal morality and the overarching goal of maintaining order and stability.

This episode emphasizes the strategic brilliance of Varys and the depth of his understanding of the complex power dynamics at play in Westeros. It also underscores the critical role of mental health in leadership and the far-reaching consequences of a leader's instability.

The concerns of Varys over Daenerys's eating are more than just a personal gesture; they are a part of a larger tapestry of political maneuvering and the complex web of loyalty and betrayal that defines Game of Thrones.