Valonqar Revisited: The Real Little Brother Who Kills Cersei

In the expansive realm of A Song of Ice and Fire, the identity of the 'Valonqar' - a title often translated as 'the little brother that finally kills Cersei Lannister' - has sparked endless debate. However, exploring the books and show reveals that the answer is not as straightforward as it may seem at first glance.

Who Is Valonqar?

The term 'Valonqar' translates to 'small brother' or 'younger brother' in the High Valyrian language. This title has been used to refer to the last living Lannister sibling who kills Cersei, typically believed to be her younger brother. Yet, when we scrutinize the character's actions and circumstances, the title becomes less about the nature of the sibling and more about the hand that controls the fate of Cersei.

The Vague Nature of Valonqar

The book and show do not explicitly state who Valonqar is. While many fans speculate, the answer remains elusive. In the context of the story, Valonqar could potentially refer to anyone who manages to bring about Cersei's demise, be it a Lannister or an outsider. The term is purposefully kept ambiguous, enhancing the intrigue and allowing for various interpretations.

Cersei Lannister and Her Siblings

Cersei has indeed antagonized her brothers. Tyrion, her younger brother, has faced her animosity and suspicion throughout the series. She has tried to undermine him, from placing spies on him and trying to make one of her Lannister guards assassinate him, all the way to coercing Shae to lie under oath. However, Tyrion remains largely indifferent to her hatred, seeing it as a badge of honor. Despite the enmity, neither of her surviving brothers, Jaime and Tyrion, are likely to be the Valonqar.

The Irrelevance of "Valonqar" in Modern Times

Modern adaptations and theories often conflate the title with a literal younger or lesser sibling. However, the concept of Valonqar is rooted in ancient traditions and language, making it less about bloodline and more about the role in her downfall.

Who Could Be the Valonqar?

Tyrion Lannister

Tyrion, Cersei's younger brother, might be the most discussed candidate. He has faced immense hatred and suspicion from Cersei but has always remained true to his love for her. Although he could potentially be the Valonqar, the books and show do not definitively point towards him, given he has turned away from her at various moments.

Jaime Lannister

Jaime is Cersei's older brother and, by birth, should logically be the Valonqar. However, he has remained loyal to her and has saved her multiple times. Additionally, the Valonqar must either be alive or have died and produced a living child. With all her children dead, it becomes more unlikely.

Arya Stark

Arya, the Stark's young sister, could potentially fit the role. She has shown immense determination and a harsh betrayal of House Lannister, particularly through her actions during the War of the Five Kings. While not biologically related to Cersei, she could symbolically be the foretold 'brother' figure.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the title of Valonqar is more complex than a simple sibling lineage. The Valonqar could be anyone who ultimately brings about Cersei's end, with the ambiguity making it one of the most intriguing mysteries in A Song of Ice and Fire. Whether it is Tyrion, Jaime, Arya, or someone else entirely, the true identity of Valonqar remains a subject of speculation and debate.