The Controversial Gratitude of the North to Daenerys Targaryen: A Deeper Dive
The relationship between Daenerys Targaryen and the North was complex, colored by cultural differences, historical grievances, and political ambitions. Despite her crucial role in defeating the White Walkers, many Northerners found it challenging to feel grateful towards her. This article will explore the reasons behind this ingratitude and how it shaped their interactions.
Cultural Differences and Misalignment
The North is known for its deep-seated values of loyalty and tradition, which come with a strong sense of identity. Daenerys, however, was a foreign queen with a background and customs markedly different from those of the North. This cultural disconnect made it difficult for the North to fully embrace her. The Northerners found it challenging to understand and accept her methods and goals, even as she fought against the common enemy.
Historical Grievances and Mistrust
Historical events have a profound impact on current perceptions. The North has a long history of mistrust towards the Targaryens, dating back to the reign of the Mad King. This legacy created an inherent skepticism towards Daenerys, despite her heroic efforts in helping to defeat the White Walkers. The fear of repeating past injustices fueled a defensive attitude, making it harder for the Northerners to trust her.
Loyalty to House Stark and Allegiance to Jon Snow
Many Northerners were primarily loyal to House Stark and viewed Daenerys' actions through the lens of their allegiance to Jon Snow and the Stark family. They saw her as a potential rival rather than a true ally. This loyalty fostered a sense of mistrust and competition, making it difficult to develop genuine gratitude towards her.
Political Ambitions and Skepticism
Daenerys' desire to claim the Iron Throne brought forth cautious suspicion from the Northerners. While she fought against the White Walkers with great effort, her political aspirations raised concerns about her true intentions. Many Northerners feared that her rule would bring changes and policies that may not serve their best interests, leading to a wary and less-than-grateful attitude.
The Aftermath and Consequences of the War
Following the defeat of the White Walkers, the North faced the significant aftermath of the war, including loss and destruction. Some felt that Daenerys' arrival was too late to truly save them, and they would only be aiding the Targaryens after the danger had passed. This perception contributed to feelings of resentment and ingratitude among some Northerners. Moreover, the fact that their facilities were used to create weapons under Gendry's supervision, rather than being compensated, further strained their relationship.
Post-Victory Banquet and Personal Insights
It is essential to recognize that the Northerners' stance was not uniform. While there were those who felt ungrateful, the victory banquet showed that not everyone shared this sentiment. Tormund's toast and the cheers at the banquet indicated a level of acceptance and gratitude. However, the North's regime under Jon Snow and Daenerys significantly impacted their relationship. The decision for Jon to abdicate and submit the North under Targaryen rule further fueled the Northerners' resentment, as they felt a Southern Queen exerting her power without earning their trust.
In conclusion, Daenerys Targaryen played a crucial role in defeating the White Walkers, but the ingratitude of the North can be attributed to cultural differences, historical grievances, political ambitions, and the aftermath of the war. Understanding these factors provides a clearer picture of the complex dynamics that shaped their interactions in the aftermath of the Battle of the Bastards.