Did Daenerys Ever Trust Jon Snow? Delving into the Complex Relationship

Introduction

Daenerys Targaryen’s relationship with Jon Snow is one of the central themes in A Song of Ice and Fire series, particularly in the final seasons of Game of Thrones. The complexity of their bond, characterized by deep trust and profound betrayal, makes this relationship a crucial aspect of the narrative. This article explores the dynamics of their relationship, the moments of trust, and the reasons behind the eventual breakdown of their trust.

Complex Dynamics of Trust

Throughout Game of Thrones, the trust between Daenerys and Jon Snow is not straightforward. In Season 7, Daenerys allows Jon to mine dragonglass at Dragonstone to fight the White Walkers. This act of allowing Jon to participate in a significant mission indicates a level of trust. The relationship between the two deepens in Season 8 when Daenerys expresses her love for Jon, suggesting a significant level of trust and emotional investment.

However, the trust is complicated by the political dynamics and personal feelings. Jon learns his true parentage and his claim to the Iron Throne, which significantly impacts their relationship. The discovery of his true heritage leads to a series of confrontations, tensions, and ultimately betrayal in Daenerys' eyes. This betrayal is not just political but also emotional, representing a breach in the trust that had built between the two.

The Conundrum of Trust

The dynamic relationship between Daenerys and Jon is also marked by the complexity of trust from Daenerys' perspective. She wants to trust Jon because she sees something in him that she admires, namely his honor and integrity. However, this same quality of honor and integrity also worries her. Jon’s hesitance to grovel and act blindly can trigger her need for worship and obedience, leading to tensions within their relationship.

Daenerys' request for Jon to break the wheel with her and her offer to visit him unescorted during their final meeting suggests a level of trust until the end. She prefers Jon's company in the face of potential danger, indicating that she believes in his honor and integrity. This also suggests that Daenerys mistrusted Sansa and to some extent Arya, as she wanted Jon to keep the secret about his parentage, explicitly stating as much.

Conclusion

The relationship between Daenerys and Jon Snow is a testament to the complex nature of trust. While Daenerys does come to trust Jon to a significant extent, this trust is often complicated by personal and political factors. The final breakdown of their trust represents a tragic conclusion, highlighting the flaws in her ability to balance her desires for honor and loyalty with the practical implications of political power.