An Analysis of Robb Stark’s Heir Choice in Game of Thrones: Jon Snow or Catelyn Stark?

In the intricate web of politics and power struggles in Game of Thrones, the choice of an heir is a critical decision that can shape the course of kingdoms. A common misconception is whether Robb Stark named Jon Snow as his heir. This article delves into the intricacies of this choice, exploring the historical context, the rules of succession, and the best candidate for the role.

Understanding the Inheritance Rules

The rules of inheritance in Westeros are not simply based on blood relations or the age of the potential heirs. Clauses in the will, the legitimization status of bastards, and the social status of potential heirs all play significant roles. Here’s a breakdown of the factors:

Legitimacy: In Westeros, even a trueborn son can be disinherited if he breaks ancestral laws, such as taking the Black and becoming a member of the Night’s Watch. This nullifies his claim. Will and Testament: Wills can be legally challenged based on the validity of the signatures and the knowledge of the testator about the true parentage of his children. For instance, Robert Baratheon bequeathed the Iron Throne to Joffrey because he believed Joffrey to be his eldest trueborn son. Social Status: Loyal lords and the public at large are more likely to follow a trueborn son or a legitimate heir, making bastards like Jon Snow less viable choices without the proper legitimization.

Was Robb Stark Set to Name Jon Snow His Heir?

Considering the above factors, it is highly unlikely that Robb Stark would name Jon Snow as his heir for several reasons:

Family Dynamics: Robert Baratheon’s marriage to Margaery Tyrell was a political alliance to solidify his position as king. As Bran and Rickon were out of the picture, and Sansa and Arya were presumably taken captive, the immediate successors were not clear. However, Jon Snow’s bastard status, Black Brothers oath, and the upcoming Red Wedding made him an impractical choice for the succession. Potential for Misinformation: For all Robb Stark knew, Joffrey could be his son, and therefore, naming Jon Snow as an heir might have been perceived as a risk. Given that he was already fighting a war and dealing with a political landscape that was continuously shifting, Robb would not have wanted to gamble on a potentially illegitimate heir.

The Best Choice: Catelyn Stark

A more realistic and strategic choice would have been to name Catelyn Stark as his heir. Here’s why:

Political Clout: Catelyn Stark was renowned for her political acumen and presence in the North. As the Lady of House Stark, she was directly connected to the North and could rally support from the Stark faithful. Strategic Alliances: Catelyn’s influence extended beyond the North. Her connections to the Riverlands and the Vale made her a powerful figure capable of forming strategic alliances that could strengthen her position as queen. Morale and Unity: Naming a Stark as heir would have instilled a sense of unity among the House Stark members. It would have provided hope and a clear path forward for the Stark family, especially considering the ongoing war and the dire state of Winterfell.

The Absence of a Heir in Winterfell

Given the circumstances, Robb Stark likely did not have a clear candidate for an heir. The death of his unborn heir and the capture of his daughters left him with no immediate successors. The end of the Red Wedding added to the unpredictability, and Robb Stark might have been too preoccupied with the immediate threats to plan for succession.

Robb Stark never knew he needed an heir until it was too late. The will he might have written was also likely nullified due to the circumstances of his bastard birth and the discovery of his lineage. Hence, it is prudent to conclude that the complexities of the situation rendered the naming of an heir a non-option in his final days.