Why Tommen Baratheon Is Often Perceived as Ineffective in 'Game of Thrones'

In the complex and treacherous world of Westeros as depicted in George R.R. Martin's 'A Song of Ice and Fire' and 'Game of Thrones', Tommen Baratheon stands out as both a symbol of youth and a figure of perceived ineffectiveness. His reign as the King of the Seven Kingdoms is marked by challenges that arise from his inherent limitations and the manipulation from influential characters around him. This analysis aims to explore these factors and provide a more nuanced perspective on Tommen's character and his place in the narrative.

Tommen's Youth and Inexperience

Tommen Baratheon ascends to the throne at a shockingly young age, with Joffrey Baratheon's untimely death leaving him as the only living heir of House Baratheon. At just a child, he is ill-equipped to handle the complexities of ruling a kingdom that is beset by internal and external threats. This youth and lack of political experience make him vulnerable to manipulation and indecisiveness, traits that come to define his reign.

Manipulation by Others

Throughout his reign, Tommen is heavily influenced by several powerful figures, chief among them being Cersei Lannister, Margaery Tyrell, and the High Sparrow. These characters use their power and influence to shape Tommen's decisions, often to their own benefit. Tommen's inability to assert his own will makes him seem weak and indecisive. His reliance on these figures further highlights his vulnerability and the dangers of a ruler being overly influenced by others.

Conflict Avoidance and Moral Dilemmas

Tommen's tendency to avoid conflict is another significant factor contributing to his perceived ineffectiveness. He often prioritizes short-term peace over addressing long-term issues, which can be seen as a lack of decisive leadership. Additionally, his compassionate nature often conflicts with the harsh realities of political power, leading to inaction or poor choices. Tommen struggles with the moral implications of his decisions, which further exacerbates his perceived shortcomings as a leader.

Contrast with Other Characters

Tommen's gentleness and reluctance to engage in brutal politics set him apart from the ruthless leaders of Westeros, such as Tywin Lannister and the Lannister brothers. This contrast highlights his perceived ineffectiveness, as many characters, and even some viewers, view him as unfit for the demands of the throne. However, it is important to note that Tommen is a new king at a young age, with the weight of experience and ruthlessness added to his role.

A More Nuanced Perspective

While Tommen is often perceived as useless, it is crucial to consider his relatively short reign and the challenges he faced at such a young age. He was not without potential; if it were not for Cersei's manipulations, he may have been trained by Loras Tyrell, who could have helped him become a better fighter. His father, King Joffrey, was absent and did not bother to teach him, while his mother, Cersei, actively undermined his chances to rule effectively. Kevan Lannister could have helped him, but Varys further complicated the situation.

As Pratik Patel notes, Tommen was too normal for a treacherous dynasty, and he could have managed reasonably well in a normal and secure dynasty. However, the power games and political manipulations of the Seven Kingdoms were out of control, especially with the destructive processes set in motion by Cersei and Tywin Lannister. Tywin had tried to regularize things by marrying Tommen off, but his death and Cersei's refusal to step down created a chaotic and destructive environment for Tommen's rule.

In conclusion, while Tommen Baratheon is often perceived as ineffective, a more nuanced analysis reveals the complex and challenging realities of his reign. His youth, inexperience, and the manipulation from powerful figures around him made his rule vulnerable and frustrating, but his character also provides a compelling reflection of the difficulties of leadership in a world where political power is often more important than personal moral values.