The Power and Influence of House Arryn during Roberts Rebellion

During the turbulent times of Roberts Rebellion, House Arryn stood as a formidable force within the realm of Westeros. Known for their strategic location and the strength of their formidable castle, the Eyrie, House Arryn played a vital role in the resistance against the Targaryen dynasty. This article delves into the key factors that made House Arryn so powerful during this historical period.

Strategic Location: The Eyrie

The Eyrie, situated in the mountainous region of the Vale of Arryn, holds a cardinal position in Westeros, providing natural defenses that made it a formidable stronghold. This strategic advantage allowed House Arryn to resist and repel potential attacks, making them an essential ally in the rebellion.

Political Alliances: A Trusting Mentor and Family Figure

Lord Jon Arryn, the influential leader of House Arryn, served as a mentor and father figure to both Robert Baratheon and Eddard Stark. This bond solidified the alliance between House Arryn and the rebel factions. His support and guidance were crucial in legitimizing the rebellion, as Jon Arryn was a respected figure with a past as the Hand of the King.

Military Strength: The Knights of the Vale

While the Eyrie's military forces were not as large as those of other great houses like House Stark or House Baratheon, they could call upon the Vales' knights and soldiers, which added significant strength to the overall rebel forces. The majority of the Vale's troops, if not their entire army, consisted of mounted knights in armor. The Vales' army was known for its numerical superiority, with up to 25,000 to 30,000 men, all of whom were seasoned and experienced fighters. In contrast, other armies typically had only a few thousand knights or seasoned fighters, with the rest being untrained and inexperienced soldiers.

Key Role in the Rebellion: A Turning Point

Jon Arryn's crucial decision to support Robert Baratheon's claim to the throne was a pivotal moment in rallying other houses to the cause. His backing helped legitimize the rebellion, as he was a highly respected figure with a prestigious past. This alliance played a significant role in the eventual success of the rebellion.

Aftermath of the Rebellion: A Legitimate Ruler

Following the success of the rebellion, House Arryn retained its status as a major house in the realm. Jon Arryn even became the Hand of the King under Robert Baratheon, further enhancing their influence in the new regime. The Eyrie's strategic location and loyalty to the Baratheon cause solidified its position as a key player in Westeros.

The Unconquerable Vale and the Eyrie

The Vale and the Eyrie have never been conquered, and it is no wonder why. Ninety percent of their territory consists of fertile mountainlands that are notoriously difficult to scale. Even the bravest men have felt jittery while ascending to the Eyrie. Attempts to fight your way up would be an impossible challenge. The jagged and rocky coastlines also make assault by sea nearly impossible. The Vale's defensibility is such that it would be a miracle for any army to even conquer one of their holdfasts.

Unlike other armies, the Vales' military might is composed entirely of skilled, experienced knights in armor, with up to 30,000 men. The overall army functions like a large cavalry unit, making them highly mobile and deadly. In contrast, other armies often have far fewer knights and seasoned fighters, relying on conscripted and untrained men for numerical superiority.

Even in terms of besieging the Eyrie, laying siege and starving out the inhabitants is infeasible. The Vale is known for its fertile land and its net export of food. Without a proper siege, the Eyrie and the Vale can sustain themselves indefinitely, which makes them virtually impregnable.

In summary, House Arryn played a vital role in Roberts Rebellion. Leveraging their political alliances and strategic position, they supported the uprising against the Targaryen dynasty, despite their military strength being somewhat limited compared to other great houses.