The Role of Titles in A Song of Ice and Fire: Why the Stark Children Are Princes and Why Stannis and Renly Are Lords

In George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, the titles and status of characters often reflect their claim to power and legitimacy within the context of the ongoing political struggles. This becomes particularly evident when examining the circumstances surrounding Robb Stark's coronation and the subsequent treatment of his siblings, compared to his uncles Stannis and Renly Baratheon.

The Coronation of Robb Stark and the Titles of His Siblings

After Robb Stark's coronation as King in the North, his siblings—Sansa, Arya, and Bran—are referred to as princes and princesses. This recognition stems from the North's historical customs and the Stark family's status as rulers of Winterfell and the North. In this context, the Stark children are seen as part of a royal family, and their titles reflect their elevated status in the North, especially after Robb's declaration of independence from the Iron Throne.

Robb Stark's coronation marks a significant shift in the status of the Starks, bringing them into a position that historically only kings could occupy. The children, being the offspring of a king, naturally inherit a level of nobility that matches their father's title. The term 'prince' or 'princess' is used here to denote not just a familial connection, but a rightful place in a kingdom's hierarchy, as recognized by the local populace and neighboring Houses.

The Continuation of Lords: Stannis and Renly Baratheon

In contrast, Stannis and Renly Baratheon, although claimants to the throne, are still referred to as knights and lords. Stannis, the Lord of Dragonstone, and Renly, the Lord of Storm's End and Lord Paramount of the Stormlands, are competing within a framework that is rooted in the legacy of Robert Baratheon. They are challenging a throne that already exists, regardless of how it was established.

Robert Baratheon gained the Iron Throne through conquest, and his rule remains the de facto authority in Westeros until a proper heir can be established or a contest resolved. Stannis and Renly are operating within this established order, contesting for the power already held by Robert, rather than establishing new claims. Their titles remain as 'lords,' reflecting the ongoing nature of their struggles rather than a definitive claim to rule.

Complicated Legitimacy

The legitimacy of their claims is further complicated by the political landscape, including questions of Robert's own legitimacy and the implications of the Targaryen lineage. While their efforts to claim the throne are genuine, the existing power structures and the established order of Westeros make their titles 'lord' more appropriate than 'king' or 'queen.'

The Targaryen claim adds an additional layer of complexity, as both Stannis and Renly must deal with the lingering influence of the Targaryens and the potential for their true histories to come to light. This makes the stakes of their struggle even higher, as a successful claim would require not just military victory, but also the support and acceptance of the entire realm.

Conclusion

In summary, the Stark children are called princes and princesses because of Robb's declared kingship and the North's customs. Stannis and Renly, on the other hand, remain lords because they are still in the process of contesting a throne that is currently held by another. Their titles are reflections of the complex and ongoing nature of the political struggle in Westeros.

This intricate web of titles and claimants showcases the central importance of legitimacy and the fluid nature of power within the A Song of Ice and Fire universe. The titles not only signify a character's current status but also the historical and cultural context in which their claims are made.