What If Margaery Tyrell Fell in Love with Robb Stark?

Introduction

In the Game of Thrones universe, Margaery Tyrell is a character whose actions and motivations often overshadow her claimed feelings. Unlike other characters, Margaery’s interactions with Robb Stark, a figure often perceived as her rival, raise intriguing questions about potential love and alliance. In the show, Margaery’s love and affection are often associated more with power and political alliances than personal affection. This essay delves into the possibilities and complexities of such a scenario.

Alice Brynden’s Perspective

According to informs from the books, Catelyn Stark actually wished for Robb to marry Margaery Tyrell. This union would have significantly strengthened Catelyn’s position, as Margaery’s alliance would have added the Reach to House Stark’s forces, ensuring their dominance and victory. However, Margaery’s motivations and desires were entirely focused on power, not love.

Margaery's Motivations

Margaery’s relationship with Robb Stark would be dramatically different from her relationships with other characters. She never loved Renly Baratheon or Joffrey Baratheon, as these unions were based on power and political gain. Similarly, any potential feelings for Robb would be overshadowed by her ambition and duty to her family.

The Timing and Possibilities

The scenario of Margaery falling in love with Robb Stark requires a significant reshaping of the narrative. Daenerys Targaryen arriving in Westeros years after Robb’s death means that Robb and Margaery would not be present at the same time. For Margaery to meet Robb, she would need to be reshaped into the story, likely by having Daenerys arrive in Westeros during the Season 5 timeline, while Margaery is in Ned Stark's custody following the Rebellion. This reshaping would need to ensure that Margaery, like other characters, could navigate powerful emotions within the political tapestry of Westeros.

Potential Outcomes

If Margaery fell in love with Robb, her actions would still be driven by ambition and family duty. If she had the opportunity to marry Robb, she would not change her behavior but would continue to prioritize her family’s interests. The Reach would benefit from an alliance with the Crownlands and the Westerlands, which borders the Reach. Any affection or love experienced would be secondary to her ultimate goal of maintaining and increasing her family’s power and influence in Westeros.

Conclusion

The story of Margaery Tyrell and Robb Stark, if this scenario were to occur, brings to light the complex interplay between love and power in the Game of Thrones universe. It underscores the enduring nature of Margaery’s ambition and her ability to transcend personal emotions for the sake of her family's destiny. This hypothetical situation further illustrates the depth of character development and the intricate political landscape that defines the world of Westeros.