Why Littlefinger Didn't Have the Option to Serve on the Wall in Game of Thrones?

Games of Thrones is a complex series that delves into numerous political and moral dilemmas, and one such intrigue surrounds Littlefinger, Petyr Baelish, and the argument of whether he deserved to serve on the Wall. Let's explore if Littlefinger had the option to serve on the Wall, and why it didn't happen.

Understanding the Punishment of Serving on the Wall

During the series, serving on the Wall was a form of punishment meted out to prisoners. It was reserved for those deemed deserving of severe condemnation. The punishment was harsh, and the primary motivation was to keep the realm secure from the terrifying and otherworldly threats beyond the Wall.

Littlefinger's Dilemma

Littlefinger was a cunning and ambitious man, often outmaneuvering his enemies. However, in the face of justice, his betrayers likely saw him as a threat. Given his role in various schemes and manipulations, Littlefinger likely believed he could weasel his way out of the situation, but it seems unlikely that the Starks and Lannisters viewed him as anything but a direct liability.

Why Littlefinger Believed He Could Talk His Way Out

Throughout the series, Littlefinger maintained a facade of reason and negotiation. He was highly capable of manipulating the situation to his advantage. However, the harsh reality of the world he lived in demonstrated that loyalty and familial connections often served as the determining factors. Sansa Stark, known for her strategic mind, would likely have been more lenient if she believed in Littlefinger's loyalty, but given her deep-seated betrayal by her family, she probably wouldn't agree to any leniency.

Alternative Options for Littlefinger

Several alternative options for Littlefinger existed, which could have been more palatable to his betters:

Trial by Combat

One possible option was demanding a trial by combat. This was a common practice in Westeros, where a person could challenge their accuser to a trial by combat and could prove their innocence through their prowess in combat. Whether Tommen's edict reached the North is uncertain, but the idea of a trial by combat was a viable legal alternative that would have given Littlefinger a chance to defend himself.

Stark Family Agreement

Another option might have been to request that the Stark family, which had a history of trials and justice, give him a fair trial. However, the Stark family was deeply divided, and Sansa, in particular, was motivated by her desire for vengeance. Despite her intelligence, she may not have seen Littlefinger as a viable candidate for a fair trial.

The Lack of Character Development for Littlefinger's Fate

The final fate of Littlefinger in the series felt rushed and arbitrary. Critics argue that the writers and producers made a lazy decision by ending the series without giving Littlefinger a fitting conclusion. This decision led to some of the series’ most criticized plot twists.

Discussion on the Quality of Writing

Many fans and critics believe that the writers and producers ignored the complex character of Littlefinger, leaving his fate unresolved and unsatisfying. By focusing on the moral high ground of characters like Sansa Stark and Arya Stark, the series often overlooked the strategic and manipulative nature of Littlefinger's character, leading to a less integrated plot.

Lessons for Storytelling

The unresolved fate of Littlefinger serves as a reminder for writers to create character arcs that are consistent with the established traits and behaviors of the characters. Ensuring that every plot element serves the overarching story and character development is crucial. Otherwise, unresolved plot threads can leave fans feeling unsatisfied and frustrated.

Conclusion

While it's clear that Littlefinger didn't have the option to serve on the Wall, his character's end in Game of Thrones was a missed opportunity for storytelling. His manipulation and cunning should have resulted in a more fitting conclusion, perhaps through a trial by combat or a legal process. The series' final decisions regarding Littlefinger fall short, leaving fans to grapple with the idea that even the smartest and most cunning characters can be dealt a final, brutal blow without much satisfaction.

The fate of Littlefinger is just one of many unresolved plot threads in Game of Thrones, reminding us that a well-plotted story often needs to be measured and consistent in its resolve. By understanding the complex dynamics at play and the missed opportunities, we can better appreciate the nuances of the series.