What if Cersei Had Mated with Stannis Baratheon?

Imagine a world where Cersei Lannister married Stannis Baratheon instead of Robert Baratheon. In George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, the political landscape of Westeros would look vastly different. This hypothetical scenario would have far-reaching implications, shaping alliances, power dynamics, and the course of events in Westeros.

1. Political Alliances and Power Dynamics

Lannister-Baratheon Alliance: The union between House Lannister and House Baratheon would have created a formidable alliance. With their combined resources and armies, the Lannisters and Baratheons could have united to face common enemies such as the Targaryens or the Starks. This alliance would have been a significant counterbalance to any overarching threat.

Stannis's Claim to the Throne: If Stannis were married to Cersei, his claim to the Iron Throne would have gained substantial support. As the rightful heir to Robert's throne, his legitimacy would have been bolstered, making him a more formidable contender against both Daenerys Targaryen and the Starks. The power dynamics in Westeros would have shifted, with a more unified Lannister-Baratheon front.

2. Cersei's Influence

Different Character Dynamics: Stannis's rigid sense of honor and duty would have contrasted with Cersei's cunning and ruthless approach. This clash could have limited her ability to manipulate him, as she had with Robert. The dynamic between them would have been tense, with potential for significant conflict.

Potential for Conflict: Cersei's ambition and Stannis's uncompromising nature could have led to substantial internal strife within their marriage. This instability would have created political turbulence, with potential for significant betrayals and power struggles within the Lannister family.

3. The Iron Throne and Other Implications

Roberts Rebellion: If Cersei had been married to Stannis during Robert's Rebellion, it could have affected the motivations of key players. Stannis might have been more inclined to support his brother, but Cersei's family's involvement would have added layers of intrigue and betrayal. Additionally, Stannis's adherence to the law and his claim to the throne might have led to a different power dynamic, potentially easing tensions with the Targaryens.

The War of the Five Kings: The War of the Five Kings would have played out differently if Stannis had a legitimate claim supported by Cersei. This could have led to different alliances and enmities among the great houses of Westeros. For instance, the Starks might have sought an alliance with the Lannisters and Baratheons, while House Tyrell would have had to choose sides.

4. Impact on Key Characters

Jaime Lannister: Cersei's relationship with Jaime could have been complicated or even curtailed due to her marriage to Stannis, leading to different developments for Jaime's character arc. Jaime's loyalty might have been tested, and his role in the war could have been affected.

Tyrion Lannister: Stannis's disdain for the Lannisters might have put Tyrion in a precarious position. This could have led to his early demise or a different role in the political landscape. Tyrion's cunning might have been necessary to navigate the complex relationships and maintain his power within the family.

5. The Final Elegance

Overall, if Cersei had married Stannis, it would have created a different political landscape marked by increased tension between honor and ambition. The dynamics of power, loyalty, and betrayal would have shifted significantly, influencing the fates of many key characters and events in the series.

In conclusion, the hypothetical scenario of Cersei marrying Stannis Baratheon would have reshaped the political and social fabric of Westeros, leading to a more complex and intriguing narrative for fans of the A Song of Ice and Fire series.