“And who has a better story than Bran the Broken?” . These comments, voiced by Tyrion Lannister (Peter Dinklage), sparked a chorus of fury among Game of Thrones fans, who had seen the program that had dominated the 2010s crash and burn in its eighth and final season. After witnessing the anticlimactic demise of the White Walkers and the character assassination of Daenerys Targaryen (Emelia Clarke), spectators were outraged when Brandon Stark (Isaac Hempstead Wright) was named the next King of Westeros.
Bran was not only absent from the show’s fifth season, but his personality has degraded into that of a cryptic robot that knows everything but says little of value. The concept that he has the finest tale is ludicrous, especially when compared to many other people who made it to the finish.
Bran’s ascension to the Iron Throne at the end of Game of Thrones was a controversial choice. While his all-seeing abilities made him a powerful figure, many fans felt other characters were better suited to rule. Here are 09 contenders who could have arguably made better monarchs:
1. Davos Seaworth:
Davos Seaworth (Liam Cunningham), a former smuggler from King’s Landing, became a knight when he smuggled supplies to Stannis Baratheon (Stephen Dillane), who was holding Storm’s End during Robert’s Rebellion. Though Stannis severed the tips of Davos’ left fingers as punishment for his smuggling, Davos became his most devoted follower. When Stannis asserted his claim to the Iron Throne, Davos stood by his side, offering sensible advise that reminded the King of what he was fighting for, even if Stannis didn’t want to hear it.
Davos combines the best qualities of all the other competitors to create the ideal combination. His humble origin means he feels deeply for the common people, and his time among the lords has taught him how to play the diplomat, persuading numerous wary followers to join Stannis and Jon. Though his humility makes him feel unworthy of the advancements he obtains, this reflects his character: He cares little about his personal reward and would rather see the realm safe and stable.
2. Jon Snow:
Originally presented as Eddard Stark’s bastard son, Jon Snow joins the Night’s Watch, a force that guards the enormous ice wall that separates the Seven Kingdoms from the Wildlings beyond. As Jon and his sworn brothers battle against their incursions, he learns of the mysterious White Walkers, who can revive the dead, prompting him to side with the Wildlings. It is later revealed that he is the hidden son of Rhaegar Targaryen (Wilf Scolding) and Lyanna Stark (Aisling Franciosi), and hence the true ruler of Westeros.
Regardless of his parentage, Jon has shown to be a captivating leader who inspires loyalty in his people, even if he is not as extensively explored in the novels. He is prepared to put aside minor squabbles and personal pride in order to focus on the larger picture, and he routinely places himself in perilous circumstances where he faces the same sufferings as his soldiers. His good nature sometimes causes him to make poor judgments, but he is ultimately a leader who prioritizes the broader picture.
3. Tyrion Lannister:
Tyrion Lannister held several advantages over Bran that made him a more suitable candidate for the Iron Throne. Firstly, Tyrion possessed exceptional political acumen. Having served as Hand of the King under both Joffrey and Daenerys, he understood the complex web of alliances, rivalries, and power struggles that defined Westerosi politics. Bran, on the other hand, remained detached from these earthly concerns due to his transformation into the Three-Eyed Raven.
Secondly, Tyrion displayed genuine concern for the well-being of the common people. Throughout the series, he expressed a desire to break the cycle of violence and oppression that plagued Westeros. His time spent among the smallfolk gave him a unique perspective on their needs and hardships, an understanding Bran lacked due to his all-seeing yet emotionally distant viewpoint.
Finally, Tyrion’s strategic mind and problem-solving skills were honed through years of navigating treacherous political landscapes. He was a master strategist, capable of formulating cunning plans and anticipating his opponents’ moves. Bran, while possessing vast knowledge, didn’t always translate that knowledge into effective action. Tyrion’s experience and adaptability would have been crucial in guiding Westeros through the rebuilding process after the War of the Five Kings.
4. Sansa Stark:
Sansa Stark’s journey throughout Game of Thrones makes a compelling case for her to have been the rightful heir to the Iron Throne. Initially a naive and idealistic young girl, Sansa is thrust into a brutal game of power. She endures horrific experiences at the hands of Joffrey, Cersei, and Ramsay Bolton, forced to navigate the treacherous world of King’s Landing. These experiences don’t break her, however. Instead, they harden her resolve and turn her into a shrewd political player. She learns to read people, anticipate their moves, and play the game to survive.
Sansa’s transformation equips her with the skills Bran, despite his mystical abilities, lacks. Bran possesses knowledge of the past and present, but this doesn’t translate to an understanding of human emotions, desires, and motivations. He seems detached from the struggles of the realm, a distant observer rather than an engaged leader. Sansa, on the other hand, understands the human cost of war and the importance of loyalty. She’s learned to balance a strong will with diplomacy, a crucial quality for uniting a fractured Westeros. Her experiences not only make her a survivor but also give her a deep empathy for the people she would rule. Sansa’s hard-earned wisdom and political acumen make her a far more deserving candidate for the Iron Throne than Bran, whose mystical abilities don’t translate into the emotional intelligence and real-world experience necessary for effective leadership.
5. Edmure Tully:
Edmure Tully (Tobias Menzies), Catelyn and Lysa’s younger brother, finds his country overrun by Tywin Lannister’s (Charles Dance) armies at the start of the War of the Five Kings. He joined forces with his nephew, Robb (Richard Madden), and gained a decisive victory over the Lannisters, despite the fact that it went against Robb’s plans. He was kidnapped at the Red Wedding and kept captive by Walder Frey (David Bradley), until being used by Jamie Lannister (Nikolaj Coster-Waldau) to end the siege at Riverrun.
Edmure is sometimes presented as a buffoonish figure who continuously makes blunders, although he possesses many great characteristics that demonstrate his ability to lead. He lives true to his house motto, “Family, Duty, Honor,” by protecting his country and prioritizing the interests of his family and the people he rules before his own pride. Furthermore, he was brave enough to propose himself, which no other lord did before Tyrion recommended Bran.
6. Brienne of Tarth:
Brienne of Tarth stands out as a compelling choice for the Iron Throne compared to Bran the Broken. While Bran possesses immense knowledge of past and present, his detachment from human emotions and motivations raises concerns about his ability to effectively rule. Brienne, on the other hand, embodies the very qualities Westeros desperately needs after years of bloody civil war.
Brienne’s unwavering sense of honor and justice is a cornerstone of her character. Throughout the series, she remains true to her oaths, even when faced with personal gain or threats. This unwavering adherence to duty would translate into fair and just rule for the common people, a stark contrast to the self-serving tendencies that plagued previous monarchs. Furthermore, Brienne’s experiences throughout Westeros – from the brutal realities of war to the plight of the smallfolk – have instilled in her a deep understanding of the realm’s needs. Her grounded perspective would ensure that the king’s decisions consider the well-being of all, not just the elite. Bran’s all-seeing powers, while impressive, lack the empathy and emotional intelligence Brienne possesses in abundance. These very qualities are crucial for a ruler to navigate the complex web of Westerosi politics and inspire loyalty from a war-torn populace.
7. Samwell Tarly:
Samwell’s journey throughout the series highlights his compassion and dedication to justice. From his time defending Gilly to his pursuit of becoming a Maester, Sam consistently prioritizes the well-being of the realm’s less fortunate. This focus on the smallfolk stands in contrast to Bran’s detached demeanor, which raises questions about his ability to connect with the needs of his subjects.
Samwell’s education and intellect also make him a capable leader. His time spent at the Citadel instilled in him a deep understanding of history and governance. While Bran possesses vast knowledge, his lack of human experience could hinder his ability to translate that knowledge into effective ruling. Samwell, on the other hand, bridges the gap between knowledge and action.
Finally, Samwell’s progressive views offer a glimpse into a potentially brighter future for Westeros. His advocacy for democratic ideals, while dismissed by the council, demonstrates his willingness to break away from the established, often unjust, power structures. Bran, as the Three-Eyed Raven, seems more concerned with maintaining the status quo than fostering positive change. With his empathetic heart and innovative ideas, Samwell could usher in a new era of peace and prosperity for the realm.
8. Yohn Royce:
Yohn Royce (Rupert Vansittart), one of the Veil’s most powerful lords, was first featured as part of a coalition to depose Petyr Baelish (Aidan Gillen) following Lysa Arryn’s (Kate Dickie) murder. They were finally persuaded to his side, and Royce was given responsibility for Robin Arryn’s (Lino Facioli) instruction. Following Baelish’s collapse, Royce becomes one of Sansa Stark’s (Sophie Turner) most devoted supporters.
Yohn Royce isn’t allowed much to do other than follow Sansa about, but what little is revealed about his character suggests he’s better than Bran. He’s one of the oldest living rulers, therefore he has a lot of expertise governing his territory. He’s also demonstrated a willingness to take action when necessary, such as against Baelish.
9. Yara Greyjoy:
While Bran the Broken possesses undeniable power with his Three-Eyed Raven abilities, Yara Greyjoy brings a different kind of strength to the table that could have made her a more effective ruler. Here’s why:
Firstly, Yara is a proven leader. She’s a skilled sailor and warrior, respected by her Ironborn crew. She understands the importance of loyalty and inspires fierce devotion in her followers. Westeros needs a ruler who can command respect and maintain order, and Yara has the experience and charisma to do that. Bran, on the other hand, seems detached and emotionally distant. While his knowledge is vast, his ability to connect with and lead people remains questionable.
Secondly, Yara is a pragmatist who understands the need for change. She defied Ironborn tradition by rejecting their raiding ways and sought alliances for the good of her people. This adaptability is crucial for a realm still recovering from war and facing new challenges. Bran, however, seems fixated on the past with his all-seeing powers. Ruling requires looking forward, addressing current problems and building a better future, something Yara’s experience positions her well for.
Lastly, Yara represents a new kind of leader. As a woman who defied expectations and carved her own path, she could usher in a more equitable Westeros. This inclusivity could foster greater loyalty and stability within the realm. Bran, on the other hand, embodies the old system of hereditary power. His ascension feels like a return to the very system that led to so much conflict. Yara’s outsider perspective could offer a fresh approach to governing, potentially leading to a more peaceful and just Westeros.
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