Why Did Sansa Stark Not Let Arya Take the Vale?

In the intricate web of power and politics that is the world of A Song of Ice and Fire and the highly anticipated Game of Thrones series, the decision of Sansa Stark to not let her younger sister Arya take the Vale of Arryn plays a significant role in the narrative. This decision not only shaped the course of events but also highlighted the complex relationships and aspirations within the Stark family. Let us delve into the background and motivations behind this pivotal moment.

When Sansa Took Over the Vale

The story of the Vale of Arryn begins with the discovery of the death of Lord Roberts Arryn, the head of House Arryn, followed by his sudden and unexplained disappearance. As the Warden of the East, House Arryn holds significant influence over the North, making the region a strategic asset. Lord Arryn, however, had no male heir, which left behind a complex web of familial relationships and political implications.

Following Lord Arryn's disappearance, Sansa Stark, who had recently become lady of Winterfell under the custody of Sansa Stark (main character) and her mother Catelyn Stark (nee Tully), found herself in a position to claim the Vale. The Stark family's influence and Sansa's own skills as a diplomat and strategist made her an ideal candidate to take on the responsibilities of the Vale.

When Sansa Denied Her Younger Sister's Request to Give Her the Vale

Upon receiving news of Lord Arryn's disappearance, Sansa, faced with a decision of immense importance, momentarily hesitated. However, her concern for her younger sister Arya and the overall stability of the Northern regions overpowered her emotions. Sansa decided to take over the Vale for the following reasons:

Political Stability: By assuming control of the Vale, Sansa aimed to prevent the region from falling into chaos. Arya, as a child and with her limited experience in political matters, would not be able to manage the complex network of alliances and enemies that the Vale entailed. Military Considerations: The Vale is a strategically important region. It serves as a buffer between the North and the Reach, a key defensive position. To ensure the safety and security of her family and the Stark lands, Sansa chose to maintain the strategic importance of the Vale in her hands. Familial Loyalties: Sansa was acutely aware that houses like the Tyrells and Lannisters would not accept Arya as their rightful ruler. By keeping the Vale under her control, Sansa was able to protect Arya from potential dangers and ensure her safety. Training and Development of Arya: Arya, known for her fierce and independent nature, was given a different path to follow. By stepping away from immediate governance, Arya was able to focus on her training and become the fierce warrior she eventually became, contributing to the larger narrative of the Game of Thrones saga.

What Sansa Did With Lord Robert Arryn's Banermen

Once Sansa Stark assumed control of the Vale, she made several crucial decisions that would shape the region's future:

Rebuilding Trust: Sansa initially faced resistance from the former followers of Lord Robert Arryn. She worked tirelessly to rebuild trust with the banermen, reassuring them of her intentions and demonstrating her commitment to justice and fair governance. Maintaining Order: As the new Warden of the East, Sansa focused on maintaining order and stability. She established a new system of governance, integrating members of House Stark and trusted allies into the administration, ensuring a balanced and just rule for the Vale. Economic Reforms: Recognizing the economic struggles faced by the Vale, Sansa implemented several economic reforms to boost trade and improve the livelihood of the people. This step was crucial in securing the support of the local population. Safety Measures: To further ensure the safety of the region, Sansa worked on fortifying the castles and improving the military defenses, preparing for any potential threats from neighboring regions. Training of Youngsters: Under Sansa's guidance, the young nobles of the Vale were trained in various skills, including strategic thought and military tactics, which would prove beneficial in the long run.

In conclusion, the decision of Sansa Stark not to allow Arya to take control of the Vale of Arryn was a strategic and thoughtful move. It not only ensured the stability of the region but also paved the way for Arya's development as a formidable warrior and leader. This pivotal moment in the story of Game of Thrones highlights the complex interplay of political intrigue, familial bonds, and personal growth in the world of Westeros.