King Tommen- A Comprehensive Analysis of His Rule and Legacy as a Just Monarch

Was Tommen a Good King?

Tommen Baratheon, the third son of King Stannis Baratheon and Queen Selyse Baratheon, ascended to the Iron Throne after the death of his older brother, King Joffrey Baratheon. As the ruler of the Seven Kingdoms, Tommen’s reign was marked by a series of challenges and conflicts. The question of whether he was a good king, however, remains a topic of debate among fans and historians alike. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of Tommen’s rule to determine his effectiveness as a monarch.

1. Political Inexperience

One of the primary reasons why some historians argue that Tommen was not a good king is his inexperience in politics. Throughout his life, he had been shielded from the complexities of the Seven Kingdoms by his mother, who was overly protective. As a result, Tommen lacked the political acumen necessary to navigate the treacherous waters of Westeros. His inability to make sound decisions often led to negative outcomes, such as the Red Wedding and the loss of the North.

2. Dependence on Cersei

Another factor that contributed to Tommen’s reign being viewed as less than stellar was his dependence on his aunt, Cersei Lannister. After the death of his mother, Cersei became his regent and advisor. Under her guidance, Tommen’s reign was marked by a series of political maneuvers that often prioritized her interests over those of the kingdom. This led to a power struggle between the Lannisters and the Baratheons, further destabilizing the realm.

3. The Faith of the Seven

Tommen’s relationship with the Faith of the Seven also played a significant role in his reign. He was initially a devoted follower of the faith, but his belief in the red priestess Melisandre led to a series of tragic events, including the death of his wife, Margaery Tyrell, and the destruction of the Greatjon Umber’s house. His blind faith in Melisandre’s prophecies resulted in a loss of trust among the people and further weakened his position as a king.

4. The Defeat of the Night King

On the other hand, some argue that Tommen’s reign should be viewed in a more positive light, particularly in light of his role in the defeat of the Night King and the White Walkers. After the Long Night, Tommen’s willingness to unite the Seven Kingdoms against the common enemy demonstrated his ability to rise to the occasion and make difficult decisions for the greater good. His leadership during this time was crucial in saving Westeros from the brink of extinction.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether Tommen was a good king is a matter of perspective. While his political inexperience, dependence on Cersei, and blind faith in Melisandre contributed to a tumultuous reign, his ability to unite the Seven Kingdoms against the Night King cannot be overlooked. Ultimately, the assessment of Tommen’s reign as a good or bad king depends on the criteria used to evaluate his leadership and the weight given to the various factors that shaped his rule.