The Role of Neutral Players in Game of Thrones: A Closer Look at Dorne and the Vale

Game of Thrones is a world of complex political intrigue and allegiances, with most major houses and kingdoms engaging in significant battles and conspiracies. However, there were some players who managed to stay neutral, often for intriguing reasons. Two of the most notable neutral players were the Vale and Dorne. This article delves into their roles and actions during the War of the Five Kings.

The Night's Watch: The Only True Neutral

In the Game of Thrones universe, the Night's Watch is often regarded as the most neutral faction due to their strict oath to remain outside the political affairs of the Seven Kingdoms. They chose to stay aloof from the chaos and conflicts that engulfed the realm, focusing solely on their duty to guard the Wall from the dangers beyond.

Their neutrality was by default, as they had no real stake in the internal affairs of the kingdoms. This made the Night's Watch a unique player in the wider Game of Thrones narrative, often mentioned but rarely directly involved in major events.

The Vale: A Reluctant Neutral

The Vale, under the Regency of Lady Lysa Arryn, maintained a neutral stance during the War of the Five Kings. Lady Lysa's decision to remain untouched by the bloodshed was driven by her own political survival but also by the desire to avoid entanglement in the broader conflicts.

When her nephew, Robb Stark, sought her aid and support, Lady Lysa ignored his pleas. Her indifference was not only a result of her own perceived neutrality but also a strategic move to protect the Vale's independence. Lady Lysa was paranoid about a potential Lannister invasion, fearing that they might blame her for the murder of her late husband, Jon Arryn.

Lady Arryn ordered the knights of the Vale to stay close to the castle, avoiding any confrontations in their own region. This action was not just a sign of neutrality but also a preventative measure to avoid drawing the ire of the Lannisters.

Dorne: The Incubator of Secret Plots

Unlike the Vale, Dorne also maintained a neutral stance at the start of the War of the Five Kings. However, the ruling factions of Dorne were crucial players behind the scenes. The House of Martin, through their leader, Prince Doran Martell, maintained a facade of support for the King's coronation while secretly advancing a plot to restore their ancestral Valyrian legacy by bringing back the Targaryens.

For years, the ruling lords of Dorne had been preparing for this potential scenario, which they believed would derail the Starks and Westerosi monarchy. However, their neutral stance at the beginning of the war was a calculated move to avoid direct confrontation with the other powerful houses in Westeros.

The Importance of Remaining Neutral in Game of Thrones

The actions of the Vale and Dorne during the War of the Five Kings illustrate the delicate balance that neutral players must often maintain. Remaining neutral can provide strategic advantages, such as avoiding conflict and preserving resources, but it also carries the risk of being scapegoated or attacked.

Both the Vale and Dorne understood the importance of maintaining this position both for their own safety and to advance their long-term goals. By staying neutral initially, they were able to accumulate political and strategic capital that they could later use to their advantage.

Conclusion

The neutrality of the Vale and Dorne during the War of the Five Kings was a complex strategy that enabled them to navigate the tumultuous political landscape of Westeros. While they maintained a facade of neutrality, their true roles as crucial players in the broader Game of Thrones universe cannot be understated. This article has explored the actions and motivations of these neutral players, shedding light on the intricate politics that defined the era of the show.

Keywords: Game of Thrones, Neutral Players, War of the Five Kings, Dorne, Vale