Why Grey Worm Did Not Announce Himself King After Daenerys' Death

Throughout the HBO series 'Game of Thrones', Grey Worm, a former Unsullied soldier, has grown from a mere follower into a respected leader. Despite his significant role in Daenerys Targaryen's army, there's a critical question about his character's actions following Daenerys' death: why didn't he proclaim himself king? This analysis delves into the reasons behind his inaction, examining both his military and political capabilities.

Grey Worm's Growth and Abilities

Grey Worm's character arc is marked by a progression from a disciplined Unsullied to a more independent and capable leader. While he demonstrates exceptional military prowess, especially in battle, his character is not defined by political ambition. Rick Desper points out that even if Grey Worm had the courage to declare himself king, the remaining Unsullied and allied forces would likely not be sufficient to back up his claim. This analysis supports Desper's argument by exploring the context of these limitations.

Limited Military Strength

The Unsullied, Grey Worm's primary force, were a formidable militia but not the dominant force in Daenerys' army. The alliance Daenerys formed was diverse, including the Unsullied, the Dothraki, and other smaller forces. The Unsullied, while immensely powerful, were a smaller component of this larger group. For Grey Worm to proclaim himself king and expect to maintain power, he would need to unite and control a much broader base of support. This requires not only military strength but also political acumen, which Grey Worm lacks.

Absence of Political Ambition

Grey Worm's character is reflective of his background; he is a soldier, not a politician. He excels in tactical and strategic leadership on the battlefield but is less comfortable with the complexities of political dynamics. His mentality has evolved, but he remains fundamentally a follower in many ways. Even in his position as commander of Daenerys' forces, he appears more content to follow orders than to give them. This is evident in how he often defers to Daenerys, even in the face of her questionable decisions.

Comfort in Compliance

There is a distinct comfort in Grey Worm's role as a follower. He is adept at executing his duties, particularly when given clear directives. In the context of Daenerys' forces, he thrives in environments where the objectives are clear and the authority hierarchy is well-defined. This skill set has served him well in his role as a military leader, but it is not well-suited for the complex and volatile world of politics. Grey Worm's experience and expertise lie in tactical leadership rather than strategic political maneuvering.

Conclusion

While Grey Worm has the physical and strategic capabilities to take Jon Snow captive, his lack of political ambition and the limited military strength of his forces make it highly improbable that he would proclaim himself king. His background as a former Unsullied and his character arc, which emphasize his loyalty and compliance, further support this conclusion. Grey Worm's actions and decisions reflect his true nature, which is more aligned with that of a soldier than a politician.