Why Prince Doran Martell Did Not Support Renly Baratheon: Political and Strategic Decisions

The decision of Prince Doran Martell, the ruler of Dorne, not to join Renly Baratheon during the War of the Five Kings in George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series has been a subject of much debate among enthusiasts. This strategic move can be attributed to several key factors, including political calculations, a desire for revenge, and a focus on Dorne's interests.

Political Calculations

Prince Doran was a cautious and pragmatic leader. He recognized the unstable political landscape of Westeros and the risks involved in aligning with an unproven contender for the Iron Throne. Renly Baratheon, despite his charismatic leadership and large following, was still an untested candidate, and the potential for a misstep in backing the wrong side was too great. Doran was acutely aware of the consequences that such a misstep could have for Dorne.

Desire for Revenge

The decision was also heavily influenced by the past injustices faced by House Martell, particularly the death of his brother, Oberyn Martell, in a trial by combat. Doran sought a justice for his family and sought a path that would bring about revenge and retribution. Supporting Renly might have seemed like a way to achieve this, but Doran's strategic thinking led him to believe that doing so would not guarantee the outcome he desired. Instead, he chose to wait for a more advantageous situation to avenge his brother.

Focus on Dorne's Interests

Prince Doran prioritized the safety and interests of Dorne over involvement in broader Westerosi conflicts. He believed that Dorne should remain independent and not be dragged into a war that did not directly serve their interests. By maintaining neutrality, Doran hoped to protect Dorne from the tumultuous wars that were sweeping through the Seven Kingdoms.

Strategic Alliances

Another factor weighing on Doran's decision was the strategic alliances that could arise from supporting Renly. The precarious nature of alliances in Westeros meant that any backing could have unforeseen consequences. Instead of jumping into a potentially dangerous alliance, Doran preferred to wait for a more advantageous situation that could solidify Dorne's position.

Renly's Downfall

The ultimate vindication of Doran's decision came when Renly Baratheon was assassinated. This event illustrated the volatility of the political situation and confirmed Doran's belief in the wisdom of a cautious approach. Renly's death underscored the fragile nature of alliances and the uncertain outcomes of backing any one side in the conflict.

Qortell and Potential Alliances

Curiously, Qortell, the heir to Dorne, might have been a valuable ally if merged into the Targaryen factions. Historically, the Dornish were hostile to both the Lannisters and the Targaryens, which made it difficult for any Targaryen faction to find common cause with the Dornish. However, had Viserys I Targaryen been more strategic, he might have betrothed his daughter to Qortell Martell, a man of comparable age and heir to Dorne, who adhered closely to matriarchal values.

Had Dorne aligned with the Blackfyre faction, Rhaenyra Targaryen, the current Targaryen claimant, might have strengthened her position by sealing alliances with Dorne, who could have wed her children to Baela and Rhaena Targaryen. This alliance, combined with support from the Northerners, Houses near Dragonstone, and the Riversiders, potentially brought to bear, the Reach, could have tipped the balance in Rhaenyra's favor. The addition of House Targaryen's bloodlines to these alliances coupled with the potential influence over the Lannisters and the Stormlands, who could have been won over with an offer of marriage, would have strengthened Rhaenyra's position significantly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Prince Doran Martell's decision not to join Renly Baratheon was a result of his careful consideration of political and strategic factors, a desire for revenge, and a focus on protecting Dorne's independent interests. The ultimate vindication of Doran's decision came with Renly's assassination, which highlighted the volatility of the political landscape and the wisdom of a cautious approach.