Game Of Thrones: Who Ultimately Won The Iron Throne?

Hey guys! Let's dive into the epic conclusion of Game of Thrones and figure out who really came out on top. After eight seasons of dragons, battles, and political intrigue, the ending left many of us with strong opinions. So, who actually won the Iron Throne, or more accurately, what happened to it and who ended up ruling Westeros?

The Fate of the Iron Throne

First off, let's talk about the Iron Throne itself. This symbol of power, forged from the swords of Aegon the Conqueror's defeated enemies, met a fiery end. In a dramatic moment, Daenerys Targaryen, after succumbing to her own madness and laying waste to King's Landing, is confronted by Jon Snow. Driven by his love for her and his duty to protect the realm, Jon makes the heartbreaking decision to kill Daenerys. This act of regicide leaves the Iron Throne vacant, and in a fit of dragon grief and rage, Drogon melts the throne with dragonfire. This act can be seen as a symbolic rejection of the corrupting influence of power. The throne, which had been the object of desire and conflict for so long, is no more. Its destruction signifies a move away from the old ways of ruling and a chance for something new. The fiery demise of the Iron Throne marked the end of an era, paving the way for a different kind of leadership in Westeros. The destruction of the Iron Throne symbolizes the end of the Targaryen dynasty's absolute rule and the beginning of a new era of shared governance. The quest for the Iron Throne had driven much of the conflict in the series, and its destruction suggested a move toward a more inclusive and less power-hungry future. After all the wars and betrayals, the ultimate destruction of the Iron Throne underscored the futility of the relentless pursuit of power at any cost.

Bran the Broken: The Unexpected Ruler

So, if there's no Iron Throne, who rules? Well, after much deliberation among the surviving lords and ladies of Westeros, Bran Stark, also known as the Three-Eyed Raven, is chosen as the new king. This decision, spearheaded by Tyrion Lannister, is based on Bran's unique ability to remember the past and his perceived impartiality. Bran, having transcended his identity as Bran Stark, possesses the collective knowledge of Westeros's history, making him an ideal ruler in the eyes of Tyrion and others. His ascension to the throne is not based on lineage or military might, but on his wisdom and his capacity for unbiased judgment. This marks a significant departure from the traditional succession of power in Westeros. Instead of a king or queen inheriting the throne through birthright, Bran is chosen by a council of lords and ladies representing the various regions of Westeros. This new form of governance suggests a move towards a more representative and democratic system, albeit still with a monarch at its head. Bran's role as the Three-Eyed Raven positions him as a detached observer, offering him a unique perspective on the needs and challenges facing the realm. His ability to access the memories of the past enables him to make informed decisions based on historical context, preventing the mistakes of previous rulers from being repeated. While Bran's selection as king was unexpected, it aligned with the show's theme of subverting traditional tropes and challenging conventional notions of power. His reign represents a new chapter in Westeros's history, one defined by wisdom, knowledge, and a commitment to preserving the realm's collective memory.

The Small Council: A New Era of Governance

To help Bran rule, a new small council is formed. This council includes Tyrion Lannister as Hand of the King, Bronn as Master of Coin, Davos Seaworth as Master of Ships, and Brienne of Tarth as Commander of the Kingsguard. Each member brings their unique skills and experiences to the table, creating a diverse and capable governing body. Tyrion's appointment as Hand of the King reflects his strategic mind, his understanding of politics, and his ability to navigate complex situations. Despite his past mistakes, Tyrion has consistently demonstrated his commitment to serving the realm and his willingness to learn from his errors. Bronn's appointment as Master of Coin is a surprising but pragmatic choice. Known for his mercenary background and his love of gold, Bronn's appointment suggests a focus on economic stability and fiscal responsibility. Davos Seaworth's appointment as Master of Ships is a testament to his loyalty, his nautical expertise, and his unwavering sense of justice. As a former smuggler turned trusted advisor, Davos brings a unique perspective to the council, ensuring that the realm's naval affairs are handled with integrity and competence. Brienne of Tarth's role as Commander of the Kingsguard reflects her unwavering loyalty, her exceptional combat skills, and her dedication to upholding honor and justice. Her presence on the council signifies a commitment to protecting the king and upholding the values of chivalry. The composition of the small council reflects a desire for competence, diversity, and a commitment to serving the realm. Each member is chosen for their specific skills and experiences, creating a well-rounded governing body capable of addressing the challenges facing Westeros.

The Stark Siblings: Where Did They End Up?

Beyond the Iron Throne (or lack thereof) and the new king, let's check in on the Stark siblings. Sansa Stark becomes the Queen in the North, ruling a newly independent Winterfell. Her journey from a naive young girl to a capable and assertive leader culminates in her coronation as queen. Sansa's experiences, both as a hostage in King's Landing and as a survivor of numerous betrayals, have shaped her into a pragmatic and determined ruler. She understands the importance of protecting her people and securing the North's independence. Her reign promises to be one of strength, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the interests of the North. Arya Stark, ever the adventurer, sets sail west of Westeros to explore uncharted territories. Her thirst for adventure and her rejection of traditional gender roles lead her to embark on a journey of discovery, seeking new lands and new experiences beyond the known world. Arya's departure symbolizes a spirit of exploration and a desire to break free from societal constraints. Jon Snow, after killing Daenerys, is sent back to the Night's Watch as punishment. He rejoins the wildlings beyond the Wall, finding a sense of belonging and purpose among them. Jon's exile to the Night's Watch is a bittersweet ending. While he is punished for his actions, he also finds solace and acceptance in a community that values his skills and his commitment to protecting the realm from threats beyond the Wall. The fates of the Stark siblings reflect the diverse paths that individuals can take in the aftermath of war and upheaval. Each sibling finds their own way to contribute to the new Westeros, whether it's through leadership, exploration, or service.

So, Who Really Won?

So, circling back to our main question: who really won in Game of Thrones? It's tough to say definitively. There wasn't one clear victor claiming ultimate power. If we're talking about individuals, you could argue that Bran