Is It Really Melisandre Who Brought Jon Snow Back to Life?

Adamant fans of A Song of Ice and Fire have puzzled over a Game of Thrones plot point that still sparks debate: was the charismatic and powerful Melisandre the one responsible for bringing Jon Snow back to life, or did some other magic play a role?

The Mystery of Jon Snow's Resurrection

When Melisandre comes to Chief of the Night's Watch, Varys, performing a spell to resurrect Jon Snow, the result is notably delayed. At first, nothing seems to happen. However, once everyone leaves the room, Jon abruptly rises from his deathbed, a tantalizing moment of suspense in the series. This peculiar sequence has raised questions among fans, wondering if there's more to this supernatural occurrence than meets the eye.

Practice Indeed Makes Perfect

Some theories suggest that Melisandre's inexperience as a resurrecter might explain the delay. Varys points out that Thoros of Myr, who is skilled in using phoenix down to revive Beric Dale, always produces results instantly. Given Thoros has been performing this feat consistently—it's become almost part of his routine—one could argue that practice both improves and expedites the outcome. Conversely, Melisandre's case, being her first such attempt, exhibits a delay in the magical process.

The Role of Ancient Faiths

From a more theological perspective, many critics have pondered the significance of numerous ancient faiths and their potential influence on Jon's revival. A devout believer in the Old Gods, Jon Snow is situated at the strategic Wall, near the region beyond it where these gods still reign. The ancient and revered Bloodraven can communicate with weirwood trees, which serve as conduits for divine messages. This intersection of magic and ancient beliefs suggests that Jon's return might have been facilitated by a combination of faith and supernatural means.

Old Gods vs. Lord of Light

The phenomenon could also be attributed to the mysterious and influential Lord of Light. Author George R.R. Martin has made it clear that various religions in the series are merely human attempts to understand and harness magic. The most ancient beliefs, such as those of Ashai, are closer to the source of magic, while the Valyrians, with their more pragmatic approach, may have lacked a full understanding of their powerful magics. This further complicates the attribution of Jon's resurrection.

The Role of Other Magics

One intriguing theory is that another magic, perhaps that of the Old Gods, played a significant role. If the Old Gods were responsible, likely through a septon performing a ritual, it would make sense given the deep historical and cultural connection between the Faharts and the Starks of Winterfell. The Old Gods, symbolizing the ancient First Men, would have an inherent interest in resuscitating a leader like Jon who defends their homeland and battles a common enemy, the White Walkers. This perspective supports the idea that Jon's resurgence might be a product of multiple magics converging under the larger goal of unifying the forces against the Children of the Forest and the White Walkers.

Conclusion

The true nature of Jon Snow's return to life remains a mystery within A Song of Ice and Fire and Game of Thrones. Whether it was Melisandre's direct intervention or if other ancient and powerful forces were involved, the full explanation may only be revealed through the books, further heightened by the showrunners' intentional ambiguity. As the story evolves, the enigmatic connection between various faiths and the magics they wield will likely come to light, enriching our understanding of this complex universe.