Why Did Ser Jorah Not Destroy His Royal Pardon?

In the complex and morally challenging world of Game of Thrones, characters often face difficult decisions that can have significant impacts on their survival and futures. One of the most significant decisions made by the character Ser Jorah Mormont relates to his royal pardon. The question arises: why didn't Ser Jorah destroy his royal pardon after he decided to remain loyal to Daenerys Targaryen?

The Context of the Royal Pardon

As a character deeply steeped in the complexities of honor, loyalty, and survival, Ser Jorah initially betrayed his true love, Lyanna Stark, by joining the Night's Watch. His pardon was a significant moment of redemption, offering him a chance to atone for his past actions.

It is worth noting that Ser Jorah’s decision to remain loyal to Daenerys was based on a deep sense of honor and duty. His pardon was a symbol of the trust the crown had placed in him, and it provided him with a means to prove his integrity and loyalty through his service to Daenerys.

The Strategic Value of the Royal Pardon

From a strategic perspective, keeping the pardon was a smart move. The pardon would act as a powerful bargaining chip, giving Ser Jorah leverage in his interactions with Daenerys and her advisors. It would also serve as a symbol of his attempted atonement and redemption, which could be pivotal in influencing the decisions of those around her.

The right move was to keep the pardon, warn her and confess. If she turned him away, as she did, which she did, that pardon would have come in handy. Destroying it did nothing; it was a wasted opportunity. Keeping the pardon reserved his options, potentially allowing him to navigate the complex political landscape with more flexibility.

The Psychology Behind the Decision

Ser Jorah’s decision to keep his pardon was not just about strategy; it also reflected his personal values and sense of honor. If he were truly remorseful, confessing his sins directly to Daenerys would have been the right course of action, rather than seeking to hide them. Hiding sins typically does not lead to genuine reconciliation; instead, it creates additional mistrust and suspicion.

It was clear that he was outed, and withholding the pardon did not serve any meaningful purpose. In fact, it limited his options. If Ser Jorah genuinely wanted to atone for his past, demonstrating his sincerity and transparency would have been more effective than concealing the reality of his past actions.

Conclusion

In summary, Ser Jorah's decision not to destroy his royal pardon, despite his loyalty to Daenerys, was a strategic and psychological choice that reflects his values and pursuit of honor. By keeping the pardon, he aimed to preserve his options and act in a manner consistent with his values of redemption and atonement. This decision, while complex and challenging, demonstrates the intricate choices faced by characters in the world of Game of Thrones, serving as a powerful example of how honoring one's past can shape future actions.