The Tragic Reign of Tommen Baratheon: A Look at Game of Thrones’ Young King

Introduction

In the sprawling world of Westeros, filled with dragons, political machinations, and brutal warfare, the story of Game of Thrones captivated audiences with its complex characters and intricate narratives. Among the many figures that shaped the story, Tommen Baratheon, the youngest of the Baratheon siblings, stands out as a poignant reminder of innocence lost and the devastating consequences of unchecked power. This article delves into the life and reign of Tommen Baratheon, exploring his journey from a gentle boy to a king forced to navigate the treacherous currents of Westerosi politics, culminating in a tragic end that resonates long after the final credits rolled.

Early Life and Personality

From the early moments of the series, the stark contrast between Tommen and his older brother, Joffrey, was readily apparent. While Joffrey reveled in cruelty and power, Tommen possessed a fundamentally different nature. His eyes held a gentle spark, his temperament was calm, and he seemed genuinely interested in the well-being of others. This foundational difference in personality was pivotal in defining his future, shaping him as a king whose intentions were often pure, but whose ability to wield the reins of power was severely limited.

Tommen’s youth afforded him a level of innocence that was both endearing and a considerable vulnerability. He was not a warrior like his late “father”, Robert Baratheon. He wasn’t cunning like Cersei, nor ambitious like many of his contemporaries. Instead, he possessed a kindness that would later become a strength, but in the brutal arena of Westeros, it often proved to be a weakness. His natural inclination was to trust, to believe the best in people, and to foster harmony. This inherent goodness made him a stark contrast to the brutality often present in the show, and especially his family.

This gentle nature was further nurtured by his relationships. He shared a genuine bond with his siblings, and even displayed affection for his cruel brother, Joffrey, despite the latter’s erratic behavior. His most notable relationships were, of course, with Cersei, the Queen Regent and his mother, and then, with Margaery Tyrell, his future queen and wife.

Cersei’s Influence

Cersei’s influence on Tommen’s life was immense, shaping the direction of his rule. While she undoubtedly loved her children, her own ambitions, paranoia, and desperate desire to control everything, ultimately undermined her ability to be a supportive parent. Cersei often treated Tommen as a child, shielding him from the harsh realities of power, which in turn, stunted his growth as a ruler. She fostered dependence and often manipulated him for her own ends, a devastating dynamic that shaped his choices and ultimately led to his ruin.

Ascension to the Throne

When Joffrey’s reign of terror abruptly ended, the Iron Throne, and the Crown of Westeros, fell to Tommen. His ascension was, in many ways, a surprise. He was not groomed for power in the same way as his siblings. However, his apparent goodness and innocence made him, at least on the surface, a palatable choice for the populace and a welcome change from his late brother. This event instantly plunged Tommen into a world of intrigue, power struggles, and immense responsibility that he was profoundly unprepared for.

Challenges as King

Upon ascending the Iron Throne, Tommen was immediately confronted with the complex web of politics that define the world of Game of Thrones. He faced challenges on every front: controlling the Crown’s dwindling treasury, navigating the shifting alliances of the great houses, and keeping his small council in line. This was a world away from the simple pleasures of childhood, from the playful companionship of Myrcella to the comfort of the castle walls. He was forced to make difficult choices, often with little understanding of their consequences. The task of ruling was further compounded by his youth and lack of experience.

External Pressures

Cersei, as Queen Regent, cast a long shadow over his reign. She constantly attempted to influence his decisions, using her maternal bond to sway him to her will. Meanwhile, the Houses of Westeros, vying for power, sought to manipulate Tommen to their own advantage. The Tyrells, sensing an opportunity to secure their family’s influence, quickly maneuvered to position themselves close to the new king.

Margaery Tyrell and the Dynamics of Marriage

Margaery Tyrell entered Tommen’s life and her introduction was a defining moment. She quickly grasped Tommen’s gentle nature and knew how to play on his desire for peace and happiness. Their relationship was, at first, a true romance. Tommen truly cared for Margaery, appreciating her intelligence, her kindness, and her shrewd understanding of politics. Her influence brought a new balance to the court, and for a time, they worked well together, attempting to find common ground and build a stronger future for the Seven Kingdoms.

The Faith Militant’s Rise

The introduction of the High Sparrow and the rise of the Faith Militant significantly impacted Tommen’s reign. While initially believing that he could maintain peace by appeasing the Faith, Tommen soon found himself caught in a religious and political maelstrom. The High Sparrow’s influence grew, and his power threatened the authority of the crown and the nobility. The Faith Militant, the armed wing of the Faith, gained strength and authority, challenging royal decrees and bringing violence to the streets of King’s Landing.

Tommen, caught between the conflicting interests of Cersei, Margaery, and the High Sparrow, was unable to find a solution. He was forced to make compromises and decisions that ultimately weakened his position. His attempts to navigate these complicated issues only served to illustrate his lack of experience and understanding of the world. His inability to effectively deal with the growing power of the Faith Militant was a critical failure that contributed to the instability of his rule.

The Impact of Margaery

The dynamics of Tommen’s marriage to Margaery was a core aspect of his life. Their relationship was complicated by political machinations, yet there was also a genuine connection between them. Margaery was a capable strategist, who offered wisdom and guidance, while also appealing to his gentle nature.

However, their relationship was threatened by the ambitions of Cersei and the machinations of the High Sparrow. Cersei’s distrust of Margaery, fueled by both jealousy and ambition, led to constant tension. The arrest of Margaery on charges of treason was the catalyst that triggered the sequence of events that would ultimately lead to Tommen’s tragic end.

Tommen’s Downfall

Tommen, faced with the imprisonment of both his queen and his mother, tried to find a solution. His judgment was further clouded by his youth, inexperience, and the immense pressure of the situation. He struggled to understand the larger picture and was often led astray by those around him.

The events that unfolded in the Sept of Baelor sealed Tommen’s fate. Cersei’s decision to use wildfire to destroy the Sept, as well as her enemies within, resulted in immense destruction. Margaery and many others lost their lives, causing grief that was too great for Tommen to bear.

Tommen, shattered by the loss of Margaery and the realization of his mother’s monstrous actions, could not cope with the reality of his life. In a heartbreaking act of desperation, he took his own life, leaving behind a kingdom in chaos. His death was a symbolic one, a final act of innocence lost, and a poignant reflection of the devastating consequences of power, betrayal, and loss.

Analysis of Tommen’s Character

Tommen’s character arc within the story of Game of Thrones provides some of the most tragic moments. His story is one of innocence in a world steeped in corruption. His attempt to be a good king, combined with his inherent goodness, made him a target for manipulation and a victim of circumstance. The pressures he faced, from the political machinations of Cersei to the religious fanaticism of the High Sparrow, were ultimately too much for him to bear.

His relationships also played a vital part in defining his character. His love for his mother, his affection for Margaery, and his gentle nature towards all those around him, were ultimately undermined by the forces that sought to control him. His story is a powerful one about the fragility of youth, the perils of power, and the devastating consequences of loss.

Conclusion

Tommen Baratheon’s brief reign serves as a reminder of the series’ exploration of themes of corruption, betrayal, and the tragic cost of power. His character arc is a compelling exploration of innocence lost in a world where the weight of responsibility can be overwhelming. The story of Tommen is a deeply sad one, and it leaves one wondering, what might have happened if he had been able to hold onto his innocence and kindness, or if he had found a different path?