Introduction

The events that transpired at the Red Wedding have had a lasting impact on not only Winterfell but the entire North. Among those directly affected were the Manderlys, and their storyline offers a fascinating glimpse into the complex motivations of powerful lords like Wyman Manderly. This article delves into whether Manderly's desire to bring back the Starks is driven by loyalty or personal gain, exploring the themes of revenge, greed, and honor.

Revenge Motives

Wyman Manderly’s thirst for revenge is palpable. Following the tragic murder of his son, Wendel, at the hands of the Freys, Manderly’s anger knows no bounds. The Freys not only framed the Starks for his son’s murder but also dared to suggest a marriage alliance that would have seen Manderly’s granddaughters inherit White Harbor. Such audacity goes far beyond reasonable tolerance.

Manderly’s resolution is clear: the Freys must be eliminated. In this context, the fate of Rickon Stark serves as a personal justification for Manderly’s vendetta. While Manderly’s family shares Stark blood, he cannot claim the North for himself due to legal, honor-based, and religious constraints. His plan, therefore, is to eradicate those involved in the Red Wedding and place Rickon on the throne of Winterfell in their stead.

Greed for Power

While Manderly’s quest for justice is undeniably intense, it is also important to explore his motivations from a more pragmatic standpoint. Financial strain is a pressing issue, and the Iron Bank of Braavos has recently dispatched Tycho Nestoris to demand repayment on the loan Manderly incurred for the construction of the Northern fleet. The loan serves as a critical burden, sapping Manderly’s resources and leaving him financially vulnerable.

To ease this burden, Manderly appears to be considering a strategic alliance with Stannis Baratheon. By siding with Stannis, he could potentially sidestep his financial obligations to the Iron Bank. Furthermore, such a move would entrench Rickon as the rightful ruler of Winterfell, albeit at a young age. Manderly hopes that his son or heir will eventually take the reins as regent, thus ensuring his legacy and the Manderlys’ ascendancy in the North.

In a broader context, aiding the Starks not only alleviates Manderly’s financial pressures but also provides him with several strategic advantages. These include gaining control over the Hornwood, a property currently occupied by Ramsay Bolton under Roose Bolton’s permission. With Rickon as ruler, Manderly’s power and influence in the North would significantly increase, ensuring his progeny stands at the pinnacle of the region’s governance.

Honor and Debt

For the Manderlys, the chain of events leading up to the Red Wedding serves as a significant opportunity to rectify historical wrongs. Several centuries ago, House Manderly was driven out of the Reach, forced to seek refuge and a new home within the Stark domain. This act of hospitality and acceptance is not easily forgotten; the Manderly family views it as a debt that must now be repaid.

By aligning with and supporting the Starks, Manderly seeks to reverse the losses incurred by his forebears. With a rebuilding effort, supported by their army, wealth, and lands, the Manderlys can restore the Starks to their former glory. This act of redemption is not merely about personal gain; it is about honor and a deep-felt sense of justice. The Manderlys, by repaying their historical debts, will secure a place in Stark history and in the annals of history as noble and just stewards.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Wyman Manderly’s motivations are a complex interplay of revenge, ambition, and honor. His desire to restore the Starks to their former power is rooted in a sense of personal grievance, but it is also a strategic play to secure his own interests and those of his family. Whether his actions are driven primarily by loyalty or personal gain, they reflect a deep-seated belief in justice and the restoration of a stability that the Northern regions sorely need.