Understanding Renly and Stannis' Decisions During the Roberts Rebellion

Renly's Absence and His Inheritance of Storms End

Renly Baratheon, the younger brother of Stannis and Robert, was born in 277 AC, which placed him quite young when the conflict known as the Roberts Rebellion began in 283 AC. Despite his noble birth and ancestral House, Renly’s role in the rebellion was minimal. This article explores the reasons behind Renly's inaction during the Roberts Rebellion, his inheritance of Storms End, and the dynamics within the Baratheon family.

Why Did Stannis and Renly Stay at Storms End?

The decision to stay at Storms End during the Roberts Rebellion is often misunderstood. Renly was a child, and Stannis barely a teenager at the time. The rebellion was a serious act of treason, and calling banners to join the fight required a significant commitment. The timing of the rebellion, combined with the preparations for the eventual war, is crucial to understanding their inactions.

Context and Timing

The Roberts Rebellion began after Lord Jon Arryn had to mobilize against rebels in Gulltown, and Eddard Stark was sent to the North on a secret mission. By the time Stannis and other lords were aware of the rebellion, the Vale was actively preparing to march south, and Robert Baratheon had already been sent ahead to the Stormlands. Calling banners was a highly serious act, and Stannis and Renly understood the risks involved.

The Stormlands were strategically positioned near King's Landing. If they had marched north without confirmation of Jon Arryn’s fate, King Aerys II Targaryen would have had cause to mobilize forces from the Reach, Dorne, the Crownlands, and various smaller Houses loyal to the Targaryens. Marching north would have been inviting disaster. Thus, waiting was the most prudent option, as the North would have taken an extended period to musteer an army.

Why Storms End for Renly? An Answer with Questions

One of the most intriguing questions is why Robert gave his 7-year-old brother, Renly, his ancestral castle, Storms End. Renly was capable, as evidenced by his quiet but supportive presence during Stannis's leadership of Storms End during the rebellion, largely due to Davos Seaworth's military prowess. Stannis, with his military credentials, triumphed during the Baelor Greyjoy rebellion by trapping and destroying Victarion Greyjoy's fleet near Fair Isle and capturing the largest island, Great Wyk, among the Iron Islands.

Yet, why was Stannis more favored? It could be argued that Robert favored Renly because of his affection for younger brothers. This theory aligns with the complex dynamics of the Baratheon family, where loyalty, love, and political strategies played significant roles.

Renly’s Loyal Army and the Tyrells’ Support

The passive stance of Renly and Stannis during the rebellion raises another question: if Renly had no army, why did the entire army of the Stormlands follow him? This paradox highlights the unconventional nature of Renly, who married Margaery Tyrell, a powerful figure. The Tyrells, with their vast wealth and influence, would only ally with someone they believed could secure their interests. This strategic alliance resulted in Renly amassing a formidable force of around 30,000 men. In contrast, Stannis initially had only a smaller, loyal following, suggesting that Renly's marriage was a critical factor in his support.

Stannis, while highly capable, was not as charismatic or as politically savvy. His leadership during the Roberts Rebellion was driven by military necessity, but without a substantial following, he faced significant challenges. His decision to stay at Storms End made sense from a strategic and logistical standpoint, given his position and the potential risks of marching north prematurely.

In conclusion, the pivotal decisions made by Renly and Stannis during the Roberts Rebellion were shaped by a combination of age, strategy, political alliances, and personal relationships. Understanding these dynamics provides insight into their roles in the conflict and reinforces the complexities of power and loyalty in the A Song of Ice and Fire universe.