Would Ned Stark Have Protected Jon Snow from the Night's Watch if He Knew Jon Was His Nephew?

In the intricate web of family and power in Westeros, the motivations of the characters are as complex as their loyalties. One such pivotal moment revolves around the decisions made by Ned Stark regarding his nephew, Jon Snow. The question that arises is whether Ned would have protected Jon from the Night's Watch if he knew Jon was his biological nephew. This inquiry delves into the intricacies of their relationship and the significance of Jon taking the Black.

The Frayed Ends of the Stark Family

Ned Stark, a

principled and honorable man, had sworn oaths to protect the innocent and uphold justice, no matter the cost. His decision to send Jon to the Night's Watch was partially driven by these principles, but also by a strategic plan to ensure Jon's safety amidst the political upheaval. However, if the truth of Jon's parentage had been revealed, it is highly likely that Ned would have approached the situation differently.

The Complexity of the Targaryen Lineage

Jon Snow's parentage is a central mystery in the Legends of Westeros. The fact that he is the bastard son of Lady Catelyn Stark and the late Lord Brandon Stark adds another layer of complexity to his role in the narrative. If Ned Stark had known that Jon was actually his nephew, the implications would have been staggering. The Targaryens, with their Doom and the acres of forbidden blood, loom large over Westeros. Any heir of the Targaryens could potentially claim the Iron Throne, and this fact hung over Ned's head like a Sword of Damocles.

Ned's Oath and Protectorship

Ned Stark's oath to protect the innocent was not merely a hollow promise; it was a deeply ingrained part of his identity. When he took Jon Snow under his wing, the boy was essentially handed over to the Night's Watch. This decision was driven by a combination of factors: to remove Jon from the immediate danger of potential Targaryen intrigue and to place him in a position where he would learn the values of honor and service.

However, if Ned had known that Jon was his own flesh and blood, the stakes would have been even higher. Jon's survival would have been a matter of personal duty, not just strategic maneuvering. Caring for his nephew would have been a personal obligation, a testament to the deep bond he shared with his family. The weight of this knowledge would have forced Ned to reconsider the potential risks and rewards of sending Jon to the Night's Watch.

Political Navigations and Future Strategies

The realities of political maneuvering in Westeros cannot be ignored. If Ned had known Jon was his nephew, he would have had to navigate the treacherous political landscape with even greater care. The Targaryens were a constant threat, and Jon's claim to the Iron Throne would have been a potential bargaining chip for those seeking power.

Ned's loyalty to the realm and his family would have dictated that he found an alternative to the Night's Watch for his nephew. Perhaps he would have chosen to educate Jon further, ensuring his readiness for leadership before any potential coup. Alternatively, Ned might have sought to broker alliances with other noble families to protect both his family and Jon's claim to the Iron Throne.

Conclusion: The Unforeseen Consequences of Forbidden Blood

In conclusion, the decision of whether Ned Stark would have protected Jon Snow from the Night's Watch if he knew that Jon was his nephew hinges on the complex interplay of loyalty, family ties, and the unpredictable nature of Westerosi politics. The revelation of Jon's parentage would have fundamentally altered Ned's approach to securing his nephew's future. The weight of this knowledge would have dictated a more cautious and personal strategy, emphasizing the protection of his own flesh and blood over political maneuvering.