The Dynamic Between Sansa Stark and Lord Baelish in 'King of the North'

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Game of Thrones series is the complex web of alliances, betrayals, and power struggles. Among the many characters who navigate this treacherous landscape, the dynamic between Sansa Stark and Lord Baelish (also known as Littlefinger) stands out as one of the most significant. Specifically, the scene where Jon Snow is named King in the North, Sansa Stark’s expression towards Lord Baelish reveals a wealth of unspoken tensions and ambitions. Let's explore why Sansa had an upset look towards Lord Baelish and what it signifies.

Implications of Jon Snow’s Kingship

The announcement of Jon Snow as the King in the North marks a significant shift in power dynamics. Up until this point, Lord Baelish had been able to manipulate and control various factions, including the North. However, with Jon's rise to power, the landscape changed dramatically:

The Rise of the Starks: The return of the Starks to power means that Littlefinger can no longer operate as freely. The Starks have the authority to enforce their will, and any actions Littlefinger takes now risk opposition. Northern Allegiances: Most of the Northern houses have pledged allegiance to Jon Snow. This means that if House Braavos were to abandon Jon, Littlefinger would have no reliable power base in the North. In essence, Jon now has the means to counter Littlefinger's manipulations. Personal Rivalry with Yohn Royce: Lord Baelish detests Yohn Royce, a powerful figure in the North, because Royce has seen through Littlefinger's schemes. This adds a layer of personal conflict that further complicates Littlefinger's position.

Sansa Stark and Lord Baelish’s Shared Ambition

Beyond the political implications, there is a deeper, more personal tension at play. Sansa Stark, despite her initial dependence on Lord Baelish for survival, has her own ambitions. Her reaction to Jon's declaration of kingship is multifaceted:

Acknowledging Power: Sansa sees the Starks as the rightful rulers of Winterfell. She feels that she deserves the power and credit for saving Winterfell, even though she never revealed to Jon the Knights of the Vale's support. Seeking Credit: Sansa often craves recognition and control. Her statement to Arya that Jon lost the battle if not for her highlights her desire for validation and credit for her actions, even though she did not inform Jon of the Knights of the Vale. Unveiling Intensions: Littlefinger’s lack of enthusiasm during the gathering suggests that he has other plans. This moment captures the tension between their differing motives, revealing that their alliance may be based on mutual interests rather than genuine trust.

Furthermore, while Sansa fights for what she believes to be the good, her methods and ambitions are often tainted by the same manipulative and calculating traits as Lord Baelish. Volunteers come more from her desire for power and leverage than from genuine altruism.

Final Thoughts

The relationship between Sansa Stark and Lord Baelish is a fascinating study in ambition, manipulation, and the pursuit of power. While Sansa's look towards Lord Baelish during Jon Snow's crowning signifies the changing power dynamics, it also highlights the shared ambitions and the conflicting motives that drive their interactions. This scene offers a deeper understanding of their characters and the complex politics that define the narrative of Game of Thrones.