What Would Robert Have Done if Ned Took the Throne Instead?

In George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, Ned Stark is known for his unwavering commitment to honor and justice. If he had ascended to the Iron Throne instead of Robert Baratheon, his rule would have borne a strikingly different mark on the political landscape of Westeros. This article explores the potential outcomes and implications of Ned Stark becoming king, focusing on his leadership style, response to the Lannisters, handling of the Targaryen threat, the North's autonomy, and the moral dilemmas he might have faced.

Ned Stark's Leadership Style

Ned Stark is characterized by a strong sense of honor and morality. His rule would likely have been marked by a relentless commitment to justice and a desire to uphold the law. However, such principles could make him vulnerable in the ruthless political environment of Westeros, where cunning and deception often overshadow righteous conduct. Ned's idealistic approach might have left him unprepared for the cutthroat nature of Westerosi politics, potentially leading to his downfall.

Response to the Lannisters

One of the pivotal conflicts in the series involves the Lannisters, particularly after the death of Jon Arryn. If Ned had been king, he might have taken a more cautious and diplomatic approach in dealing with them. Unlike Robert's aggressive stance, Ned could have sought to engage in careful negotiations rather than direct confrontation. This approach might have helped foster a different power dynamic in King's Landing, potentially easing tensions and avoiding the bloodshed that marked Robert's reign.

Handling of the Targaryen Threat

The Targaryen remnants, particularly Daenerys and her brother Viserys, posed a significant threat to the stability of Westeros. If Ned had taken the throne, he might have opted for a different strategy compared to Robert's plans. Rather than resorting to assassination, Ned could have attempted to negotiate or form alliances, believing in the possibility of peace rather than conflict. This could have opened up new avenues of resolution and prevented the all-out wars that the series depicts.

The North's Autonomy

Ned Stark's rule would likely prioritize the interests of the North. He would have strived to maintain the autonomy of Northern lords, potentially leading to a more decentralized power structure in Westeros. Unlike Robert, who imposed his will on regions, Ned's influence might have been less centralized, fostering a balance of power that could have prevented the unification and dominance that Robert's rule facilitated.

Moral Dilemmas

Ned Stark's unwavering commitment to honor could have led to significant moral dilemmas, especially in the face of betrayal or rebellion. His straightforward and honest nature might have made it difficult for him to navigate the treacherous political landscape. In a world where deceit is a common tool, Ned's inability to adapt to such situations could have resulted in instability. This vulnerability might have made him a target for those who exploited his principles, leading to a situation where his noble intentions were misunderstood or misused.

In summary, if Ned Stark had taken the throne, it would have likely resulted in a more honorable but potentially less effective rule. The balance of power, the treatment of the Lannisters, and the fate of the Targaryens would have been markedly different under his leadership. While his efforts to uphold justice and morality would have been admirable, the ruthless and unforgiving nature of Westerosi politics might have ultimately led to his downfall.