Why Cersei Lannister Refused Jon Snow as King Despite Proposing Margaery Tyrell’s Marriage

In the world of Game of Thrones, political allegiances and power struggles are everything. One of the most intriguing aspects of the show involves Cersei Lannister’s complex relationship with Jon Snow and her proposed marriage alliance with Margaery Tyrell. Understanding Cersei’s motivations and the broader plotlines requires delving into her strategic mindset and the larger Game of Thrones narrative.

Understanding Cersei’s Motivations

Throughout the series, Cersei Lannister is portrayed as a cunning and ruthless political strategist. She is not one to engage in actions without a clear and immediate benefit. When she proposes Margaery Tyrell’s marriage to Jon Snow, her intentions are clear: she wants to secure an alliance with the powerful House Tyrell. This marriage would not only cement a political alliance but also provide a buffer against any potential threats to her rule.

The proposal of marrying Margaery to Jon Snow was made at a critical juncture in the series. With the walls closing in on King's Landing and the Lannister forces weakened, Cersei recognized the need for external alliances. The Tyrells, with their vast resources, loyalty, and powerful holdings, were seen as a potential ally. By marrying Margaery to Jon, she hoped to bring the North into her fold, thereby increasing her chances of survival.

The Nature of Cersei’s View on the North

However, Cersei’s views on the North are deeply rooted in her oppressive and often brutal worldview. She sees the North as a wasteland and the Northmen as savages. Her attitude is one of disdain and contempt, and she has no qualms about exploiting their loyalty for her own gain. In her eyes, the King in the North, Jon Snow (believed to be a bastard), is no more than a pawn to be used for her political ends.

It is important to note that, in Cersei’s mind, the North is not a safe or valuable ally to have. She views the people there as uncivilized and untrustworthy, and she believes that controlling the North would bring more headaches than benefits. Therefore, even if she initially offered the marriage alliance, she had no interest in allowing Jon Snow to ascend to the Iron Throne.

The Strategic Implications of Cersei’s Actions

The refusal to have Jon Snow become king is a testament to Cersei’s calculated and pragmatic approach to politics. Her goal is to maintain and strengthen her hold on power, even if it means working with and sometimes against other powerful factions. By refusing to make Jon King, she is maintaining the delicate balance of power, ensuring that no single faction, including the North, becomes too dominant.

Conclusion

Cersei Lannister’s decision to initially propose the marriage of Margaery Tyrell to Jon Snow, but ultimately refuse to allow Jon to become king, is a perfect example of the intricate and often ruthless nature of political strategy in the world of Game of Thrones. Her motivations are clear and well-aligned with her overarching political goals.

Understanding these complex relationships and motivations is crucial for comprehending the broader narrative and the strategic decisions made by key characters in the series. Whether it’s Cersei’s desire for power, Jon’s struggles for legitimacy, or Margaery’s ambitions for influence, each character’s actions drive the plot forward and shape the world of Game of Thrones as we know it.