What if Arianne Had Married Robb: A Comprehensive Analysis

Westeros is a land of political intrigue and power struggles. The marriage of Arianne Martell to Robb Stark could have drastically altered the course of events in the series. This article delves into the hypothetical scenario, examining the consequences and implications if Robb Stark had married Arianne Martell instead of his actual wife, and what would have happened if he met Daenerys Targaryen.

Scenarios: Daenerys and Robb Meeting

The meeting of Daenerys and Robb Stark would require one of two conditions: Robb had to survive the Red Wedding, or the Red Wedding itself never happened and Robb’s campaign during the War of the Five Kings was successful. In either case, Robb would likely be on the throne, potentially with a thriving kingdom. Daenerys arrives in Westeros in Season 6, while Robb dies in Season 3, creating a significant three-year gap during which Robb could have achieved his throne.

Robb’s Widow and Family

By the time Daenerys lands, Robb would probably be married and have a child on the way. However, for the sake of argument, let’s assume his wife, presumably a Frey, and child died within those three years, possibly due to external threats or other unforeseen circumstances.

Daenerys’ Arrival in Westeros

Upon her arrival, Daenerys arrives with three dragons, a vast fleet, and an army composed largely of Dothraki and Unsullied. The stark reality is that fighting against Daenerys is suicidal. Her dragons, a formidable and uncontrollable force, would make defeating her nearly impossible. A strategic choice for Robb would be to bend the knee and potentially marry Daenerys to save his people and kingdom, even at the cost of his pride.

Marriage to Daenerys Targaryen

Marrying Daenerys would not only secure peace but also ensure a stronger alliance. The children from this union would be potential dragon riders, a future advantage for the North. However, this marriage would come with significant risks, such as the potential opposition from the northern lords who feel that their king had to bend the knee to a "Southerner," specifically the daughter of the mad king who killed Rickard and Brandon Stark.

Jon Snow’s Claim to the Iron Throne

There is one other threat to consider, aside from the White Walkers: Jon Snow. According to Westerosi law, Jon has a stronger claim to the Iron Throne than Daenerys, being the only living son and heir of the Crown Prince Rhaegar Targaryen. Male heirs come before female heirs, a principle that could be exploited by the northerners.

Jon and Robb’s Dynamics

Without a dragon and lacking much support, Jon's claim could face challenges. However, given Robb’s close relationship with Jon, it is unlikely that he would readily block Jon from a legitimate claim to the throne. Additionally, Robb’s love for Jon, akin to a brother, makes it improbable that he would outright deny Jon a chance to rule.

Conclusion

In summary, a marriage between Arianne Martell and Robb Stark would have set the stage for a complex political landscape. While Robb meeting Daenerys and bending the knee would secure his position, it would also come with significant risks and internal opposition. The scenario with Jon Snow’s potential claim to the throne adds an extra layer of complexity, though it is unlikely to come to fruition due to the brothers' deep relationship.

This analysis provides insights into the intricate political and power dynamics within the A Song of Ice and Fire universe.