Why Didn't Daenerys Destroy King's Landing?

Daenerys Targaryen's decision not to destroy King's Landing upon her arrival in Westeros, despite having three dragons and no immediate threat from crossbows, is a critical aspect of her strategic and moral approach to governance. This decision reflects a complex interplay of strategy, morality, and the desire for legitimacy in her quest to reclaim the Iron Throne.

Strategic Planning

Daenerys Targaryen's primary goal was to build alliances and gather support from the people of Westeros, particularly the noble houses. Destroying the capital outright would have alienated potential allies and undermined her claim to the Iron Throne. By preserving King's Landing, she could negotiate with the leaders of the city, potentially convincing them to support her cause.

Desire for Legitimacy

Daenerys sought to be seen as a legitimate ruler, not just a conqueror. By not resorting to immediate destruction, she aimed to present herself as a compassionate leader who could bring peace and stability to Westeros. This approach was in line with her vision of governing wisely and justly, which was a key part of her moral compass.

Influence of Advisors

Daenerys was heavily influenced by her advisors, particularly Tywin Lannister, and later Tyrion Lannister. They advocated for a more diplomatic approach, believing that winning the hearts and minds of the people was crucial for her long-term success. This advice helped shape her policies and strategies, aligning them with the principles of unity and cooperation.

Fear of Civilian Casualties

Daenerys was aware of the potential for massive civilian casualties in a direct attack on the city. She had previously expressed a desire to avoid unnecessary bloodshed, reflecting her moral stance against harming innocents. Her reluctance to use force was rooted in her ethical considerations and her commitment to reduce suffering wherever possible.

Underestimating the Threat

At that point, Daenerys may have underestimated the strength of her opponents, including Cersei Lannister's defenses. This underestimation led to a miscalculation of the risks involved in a direct assault on King's Landing. Later, as the threat of crossbows and other sophisticated weapons emerged, this oversight became more apparent, but it was a risk she was willing to take.

Narrative and Character Development

From a storytelling perspective, delaying her use of force allowed for significant character development and the exploration of themes such as power, morality, and the consequences of war. It set the stage for the eventual moral dilemmas and conflicts she faced. These decisions were pivotal in shaping her journey from a fearsome conqueror to a compassionate leader.

Conclusion

The decision not to destroy King's Landing reflects a multifaceted approach by Daenerys Targaryen, balancing strategy, morality, and the quest for legitimacy. Her actions were driven by a desire to forge alliances, establish a new and just rule, and resist the urge for immediate fame through destruction. This complex interplay of factors ultimately shaped her legacy in the Seven Kingdoms.