Why is Melisandre Not in Service to Daenerys? Unraveling Her Complex Motivations and Role in Westeros
The question of why Melisandre is not in the service of Daenerys Targaryen has long intrigued fans of the A Song of Ice and Fire series. Melisandre, the Red Woman, is a complex character whose loyalties and actions are deeply rooted in her belief in the prophecies of the Lord of Light and the fight against the White Walkers. This article explores the nuances of Melisandre's motivations and her role in Westeros, analyzing why she ultimately chooses to serve Jon Snow instead of Daenerys.
Melisandre's Loyalties and Prophecies
Mensisandre's allegiance is primarily dictated by her interpretation of the prophecies surrounding the Lord of Light and the battle against the White Walkers. She recognizes the potential of Daenerys as a powerful figure, but her belief in her own prophecies and the chosen one concept leads her to prioritize her own agenda over Daenerys's.
A Shift in Focus
When Stannis Baratheon is defeated, Melisandre shifts her focus. Despite acknowledging Daenerys as a significant player in the power struggle, Melisandre does not align herself with her. She believes in her own prophecies and the idea of a chosen one, which drives her to follow a path of her own. Her past loyalties to Stannis and the Lord of Light's prophecies shape her decisions.
The Plot in the Books: Melisandre's Arrival and Mystery
In the books, Melisandre's arrival in the West is marked by her appearance at Dragonstone. Stannis Baratheon's wife had been known for her belief in R'hllor for a couple of years, and it is likely that Melisandre had been with Selys on Dragonstone for some time before Stannis returned following the death of Jon Arryn.
The mystery surrounding Melisandre's arrival and her role in Stannis's plans is intriguing. Varys, the Master of Whisperers, indicates that he had no idea what Stannis was up to on Dragonstone, as Dragonstone was not 'visible' through his usual methods of spying. Similarly, Littlefinger, a master of manipulation, also seemed mysterious to Varys.
The Potential Purpose
It is likely that Melisandre was sent to Dragonstone to initiate a chain of events that would eventually lead to Robert Baratheon's death through Jon Arryn's assassination. This series of events was triggered by the investigation into Cersei's bastards. It is possible that someone suggested this to Stannis through Melisandre, although the exact individual and their motives remain unclear.
Melisandre's Unique Prophecies
Melisandre's unique position as a Red Priestess is reflected in her particular prophecies. Unlike the other Red Priests in Essos, she focuses on prophecies concerning events in Westeros rather than Dany herself. While the other Red Priests in Essos see Dany as the fulfillment of various prophecies, Melisandre seems to have distinct visions of events in Westeros that may or may not directly involve Dany.
The Hidden Figure
Jon Snow, the true son of Lord Eddard Stark, interestingly appears in none of the Varys' networks, the weirwood webcasts, or the House of the Undying visions. He is only visible in Melisandre's flames, and she had planned to have him assassinated. This suggests that Jon's parentage and birth have been deliberately hidden from those who can see the past.
Conclusion
Melisandre's absence from Daenerys's service is a complex interplay of personal beliefs, past loyalties, and the specific prophecies she follows. While she recognizes Daenerys as a potential leader, her own goals and the Lord of Light's prophecies drive her to prioritize Jon Snow. This intricate character development adds depth to the world of Westeros and the complex interplay of power, belief, and destiny.