Not Just Mother, Wife, and Queen: The Ethical and Political Strategies of Female Characters in George R. R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire

Abstract

The article is a study of the ethical and political motives of the behavioral strategies of the main female characters in the cycle of novels of A Song of Ice and Fire by George Martin. The author of the article identifies three such characters; Caitilin Stark, Daenerys Targaryen, and Cersei Lannister. The article considers their gender and social identity, compliance or non-compliance with the stereotypes of behavior expected from them, as well as the life-building practices they choose, ways to justify the chosen behavioral strategies, and the reasons for their success or failure. It is then assumed that the fulfillment of one’s duty and service, to one’s business, family, or people are no less important for the realization of oneself and the achievement of goals (including imperious ones) than the possession of other resources such as strength, the power of the army, chivalrous valor, cunning, or wealth. This is especially true for those who seek to possess and retain political power. This does not mean that those who are kind and noble do not perish or emerge victorious from conflicts. A correct understanding of the goals and meaning of the ruler’s power is a necessary, but not sufficient, condition. Since it is necessary, one who does not possess these qualities does not have a chance for a long-term retention of power. However, owning only it and nothing more gives the applicant for power an undeniable advantage. It is also significant that the gender of the character does not give any long-term advantage in the political game, which is shown in the series of Martin’s novels. The author of the article convincingly proves that either a man and or a woman can be an ideal ruler with equal success in Martin’s world.