Literature
The Impact of Shireen’s Death on Jon Snow After His Resurrection
The Impact of Shireen's Death on Jon Snow After His Resurrection
The death of Shireen Baratheon, a tragic and controversial event in the Game of Thrones series, leaves many questions about how Jon Snow would react upon discovering this truth if he were to be resurrected. This article explores the potential emotional and ethical consequences Jon might face, analyzing his character and the lore of A Song of Ice and Fire.
Unbeknownst To Jon: The Hidden Tragedy
Season 6 of Game of Thrones closes a significant chapter in Jon Snow's journey without addressing the tragic fate of Shireen Baratheon. Season 5 is the first to introduce Shireen, a young girl with a deformed face who becomes a close friend of Jon Snow. Yet, the stark truth—that Melisandre burned Shireen as a part of a sickening ritual—is left unspoken until the next season, had it continued. This unanswered question raises the intriguing scenario of how Jon would behave if he becomes aware of this event.
Emotional and Ethical Turmoil Upon Resurrection
Should Jon Snow be resurrected, the discovery of Shireen’s death would likely cause him profound distress. As a character deeply committed to justice and loyalty, Jon would be deeply disturbed by the senseless murder of a young, innocent girl. His potential reactions would be multifaceted, balancing his moral compass with the reality of the world he faces.
Confrontation with Melisandre: Jon would likely seek to confront Melisandre about her actions. Given her powerful influence and the significant role she plays in the world of A Song of Ice and Fire, he would need to tread carefully. His moral code compels him to hold her accountable, despite the possible consequences. This confrontation could mark a turning point in Jon's journey, either strengthening his resolve or leading to his unwinding due to the moral compromises required.
Moral Compromises in War: The act of burning Shireen also raises the broader theme of moral compromises in war. In the world of A Song of Ice and Fire, survival often requires making hard choices. Jon, whose ethical framework informs his actions, would grapple with the implications of this act on the larger fight against the White Walkers. The burning of Shireen could be seen as a twisted reminder of the harsh realities of leadership, weighing heavily on his conscience.
Political Implications and Jon's Role
Given Jon Snow's background and the nature of his resurrection in the book series, his political involvement is minimal. The men of the Night's Watch do not delve into the political issues of Westeros, and Shireen's death is a personal tragedy rather than a political one. Therefore, even if Jon were to be resurrected, his role in the realms' political affairs would be inconsequential. His sense of justice would compel him to recognize Melisandre's actions, but his involvement in the political landscape would remain limited.
No Action Against Melisandre: There is a strong likelihood that Jon would not take any direct action against Melisandre. His commitment to his duty and loyalty to the Night's Watch would prevent him from engaging in political confrontations or taking any form of retribution. Instead, he would quietly digest the information, reflecting on his own moral principles and the broader implications for the fight against the forces of darkness.
Conclusion and Speculation
The discovery of Shireen's death upon Jon Snow's resurrection would undoubtedly be a turning point in his journey, prompting deep emotional and ethical reflection. While Jon's commitment to his moral code would compel him to confront Melisandre, his political and social circumstances would restrict his ability to take significant action. This hypothetical scenario underscores the complexity of Jon's character and the moral challenges he faces in a world where the line between right and wrong can be blurred.