Jaime Lannister's Decisionist Reflection in the Mirror of Erised

The Mirror of Erised has always had a unique place in the vast world of A Song of Ice and Fire. For Jaime Lannister, it represents not just his deepest desires but also his evolving journey from a tragic hero to a tragic figure.

The Evolution of Jaime's Vision

At the beginning of his journey, Jaime's vision in the Mirror of Erised is as follows:

He sees himself and his wife Cersei together, free from all burdens, with no mention of his father, Tyrion, or the Kingsguard. In this perfect world, Jaime and Cersei are merely themselves, without the shadow of his notorious title, the Kingslayer, hanging over their heads.

This vision serves as a coping mechanism and a reflection of his deepest desires, an ideal where he and Cersei are united without the weight of society's expectations. However, as the series progresses, Jaime's vision evolves, driven by a mix of guilt, ambition, and love.

Jaime's Atonement and Desire for Redemption

The defining moment for Jaime was the assassination of Aerys II Targaryen. This act not only solidified his reputation as the Kingslayer but also permeated every aspect of his existence, leaving him torn between his duties and moral compass.

Jaime desires a world where he is not seen as a villain, one where people can understand and perhaps even forgive him for his actions. Yet, the harsh reality of the world suggests that such fantasies are fleeting, as his image can be easily shattered again.

As his relationship with Cersei deteriorates, so does the hope for his initial vision. Instead, he begins to seek redemption through means that align with his remaining sense of honor, such as fulfilling his oaths to Catelyn Stark and protecting Myrcella Baratheon.

Jaime's Arc Towards Redemption

A pivotal moment for Jaime's arc comes when he seeks to protect Myrcella Baratheon, leading him to take a son's place in a dangerous quest. While the reunion with Myrcella initially offers him validation and hope, the grim reality of the situation shatters these dreams.

When Myrcella finally appears and rejects him, Jaime's dream of being a good father and earning redemption is abruptly interrupted by Myrcella's tragic fate. Her burning alive by Melisandre serves as a stark reminder of the armored reality of his desires.

Jaime's subsequent decision to join the Night's Watch further illustrates his struggle. While he seeks to redeem himself, his actions are inverted, leaving him to witness tragedy without being able to intervene. This journey towards tarnished redemption casts a long shadow on his character.

Lessons and Aftermath

Ultimately, Jaime returns to a changed world, where the name "Goldenhand" looms over him. While he has fulfilled certain promises to Myrcella and her children, the cost of his actions is profound.

Jaime finds himself caught between the society that continues to call him the Kingslayer and his own guilt and regrets. He has achieved a form of redemption, but it comes at a terrible price, leaving him haunted by the sins of his past.

The Mirror of Erised thus becomes a poignant metaphor for Jaime's journey, where his desires, though noble, remain unfulfilled, leaving him in a perpetual state of regret and longing.