If the Pevensies Were Great Houses in Westeros: A Brave New Kingdom?

Introduction

When it comes to cross-setting comparisons, one can often struggle to find the right context or parallels that align with each other. This particular exercise tests this idea when we consider whether the Pevensies, a quartet of British children who unknowingly brought to the land of Narnia by a river, could have been one of the Great Houses of Westeros in George R.R. Martin's Game of Thrones.

The Pevensies: Naive Yet Noble

The Pevensies, Edmund, Lucy, Peter, and Susan, were unlike the brutal and cunning characters typical of Westeros. They were in their essence highly moral and innocent, traits that made them natural leaders. However, the brutality and cunning that are so crucial in the Westerosi narrative are elements that the Pevensies sorely lack.

Strengths and Weaknesses

When we consider their potential strength, the Pevensies have a unique advantage. They were the rightful claimants to the throne of Narnia and had the complete loyalty of all races that resided within the kingdom. Their reputation was excellent, and they were respected by all for their bravery, wisdom, and just rule. However, in the world of Westeros, where every House is in pursuit of power and dominance, loyalty can be a fickle and fleeting commodity.

Additionally, the Pevensies came with their own set of special abilities. Peter, with his sword skills; Lucy, with her magical powers; Susan, as the queen with a wise and just spirit, and Edmund, the one that had to overcome his baser nature, displayed a wide range of talents. The divine Lion, Aslan, as their constant ally, gave them a unique and powerful advantage. This divine favor could be seen as a hidden and eternal source of assurance and support in times of need.

The Rivalries of Westeros

However, the Pevensies would have to contend with the unrelenting rivalries, chaotic politics, and constant wars of Westeros. Unlike other Great Houses, who may face internal strife and external threats, the Pevensies brought with them a sense of unity. After Edmund's betrayal and redemption, the Pevensies forged a strong bond, and this sibling loyalty was something unique and different from the typical Westerosi Halls.

Their ability to maintain and foster such camaraderie might have given them an edge in Westerosi politics. The Pevensies bring with them an unflinching and unshakeable belief in each other and the divine Lion - concepts that are almost foreign to the power-obsessed and constantly scheming Westerosi.

Nevertheless, the question would be: could the Pevensies maintain this loyalty? Could the idea of the divine Lion be enough to keep their vassals and allies in line? Their claim to the Narnian throne was already strong due to Aslan's intervention, but a political move in Westeros might require more than a divine mandate; it often requires a merger of the divine and the material, a balance that the Pevensies might struggle to achieve.

A Brave New Kingdom?

If the Pevensies truly were Great Houses in Westeros, their composite strength, unity, and divine backing might have given them a unique and formidable position. However, the Westerosi world is a place of constant betrayal, where cunning, brutality, and immense loyalty are the rules of the game. The Pevensies' moral and noble nature, while an asset, would also make them an easier target for political manipulation and assassination.

In conclusion, while the Pevensies would struggle with the harsh realities and brutal politics of Westeros, their unique combination of divine support and loyal companionship might give them a chance to find success, even if it would be different and unconventional from the other Great Houses. They would definitely have to contend with much more, but their journey, much like in Narnia, would be one of growth and challenge.