9 of the best ships from Game of Thrones

As a longtime enthusiast of the Seven Kingdoms and beyond, I must say that the relationships formed in George R.R. Martin’s world are as captivating as the battles and intrigue. Each couple has its unique charm, with their own trials and triumphs, mirroring the complexities of life itself.

Despite the fact that romance might not be the initial association for fans when considering Game of Thrones, it is indeed a significant element in the series. Some relationships display deep affection and mutual regard, while others are bound by external influences, and some are characterized by extreme abuse towards one or both partners. Nevertheless, the audience has invested considerable time in debating their preferred couples, whether they had a happy ending or not.

A successful pairing often relies on more than just physical compatibility; fans tend to have deeper motivations for supporting their chosen relationships. For instance, in the series ‘Game of Thrones’, popular ships frequently stem from a mix of shared goals and abilities among characters, acts of kindness displayed towards each other amidst difficult situations, and the conviction that their union could claim the Iron Throne.

Throughout eight seasons and 73 episodes, almost every significant character crossed paths with one another. This setup allowed viewers to witness their collaborative efforts. However, it was often the unmet characters that piqued fans’ interest the most, as they wondered how their alliance might have unfolded, tugging at their heartstrings with curiosity.

Reflecting on the numerous romantic pairings from Game of Thrones, these nine stand out as some of the finest relationships the series ever developed. Ranging from tender and sweet like young affection, to demonstrating significant character growth since their initial encounters with potential partners, they all underscore the fact that meaningful connections can emerge, even in the harshest environments.

WHAT IF: Sansa Stark and Margaery Tyrell (Sansaery)

In the realm of ‘Game of Thrones’, same-sex relationships aren’t prevalent, especially those without a significant power imbalance. However, one popular LGBTQ+ pairing theory is between Sansa and Margaery. Both women were engaged to Joffrey and suffered under his rule. But whereas Margaery was skilled at navigating the political landscape—something Sansa required to master.

The foundation for Sansaery lies in their shared journeys where they can mutually grow. However, it’s not just their parallel paths that captivated fans; it was Margaery’s selfless efforts to aid Sansa that truly won hearts. At first, she engaged with Sansa merely to gather information about Joffrey, but as time passed, these two young women formed a sincere bond and grew concerned for each other’s well-being. Amidst the intricate power plays and manipulations of King’s Landing, their friendship appeared genuine and heartwarming.

Undeniably, there are numerous interpretations of Margaery’s actions towards Sansa. Some viewers, though somewhat skeptical, propose that her assistance stemmed primarily from Sansa’s control over the North. Yet, it’s equally plausible that this alliance could have blossomed into something deeper. Among those who admire their potential bond, there’s a theory that Margaery might have instructed Sansa in the subtle art of seduction, much like Doreah did for Daenerys. Their relationship, alas, was destined to be fleeting, regardless of the feelings they may have harbored for each other. However, it was heartening to witness compassion in King’s Landing amidst so much turmoil.

WHAT IF: Robb Stark and Margaery Tyrell (Robbaery)

From a passionate film enthusiast’s perspective, “Game of Thrones” is a series that effortlessly sparks intriguing “What if?” scenarios, uniting characters who could have potentially benefited politically or exhibited compelling chemistry. For instance, it often explores pairings among the Stark men, be it Robb or Jon Snow, with a woman from an influential family – characters like Myrcella Baratheon, Margaery Tyrell, or Arianne Martell (for those well-versed in the books).

As a film enthusiast, I find myself captivated by the imaginative crossover of Robb Stark and Margaery Tyrell – a coupling that could’ve radically altered the course of the storyline in George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire.” While these characters never crossed paths within the narrative, Margaery found herself married to Renly, Joffrey, and Tommen Baratheon, becoming Queen through three successive marriages. However, I can’t help but wonder if it would have been more compelling for her to become a Stark instead.

As a cinephile immersed in tales of power and politics, I’d rephrase it like this: Robb was an astute military strategist with a devoted following, numerous younger siblings for strategic marriages, and a realm that dwarfed all others in size. Margaery, hailing from one of the Noble Houses, shared similar values, a sharp political acumen, and wealth and resources beyond measure. This union, unlike any of her canonical ones, would have offered Margaery a content partner. For Robb, it would have provided a spouse with skills and assets he lacked, enriching both their lives significantly.

WHAT IF: Sansa Stark and the Hound (SanSan)

I don’t particularly enjoy it myself, but I understand its charm, particularly for fans of George R.R. Martin’s “Song of Ice and Fire” series. When Sansa encountered the Hound, she was petrified by him. The young girl who envisioned a chivalrous knight whisking her away was taken aback by the king’s ruffian who consistently denied being a knight. Yet, that’s exactly what makes their relationship appealing to many.

SanSan is often praised as an unconventional duo due to their strong canonical backing. When everyone else was harsh towards her, Sandor Clegane showed kindness to Sansa, shielding her from Joffrey’s cruelty and even suggesting a way for her to flee the city. Though he can be rough and blunt, perhaps that’s precisely what an innocent girl like Sansa required. Both characters had been hardened by the world, and many viewers hoped they would find solace in each other.

In essence, Sansa’s stay in King’s Landing and the Hound’s departure halted their onscreen relationship development, but fan enthusiasm for this dynamic was so strong it became the fifth most-popular relationship in the ‘Game of Thrones’ section of Archive of Our Own. Despite the Hound forming a unique mentorship with Arya, fans remained eager to understand Sansa’s feelings towards him when they meet again.

CLOSE TO PERFECTION: Jon Snow and Ygritte (Jongritte)

The romantic connection between Jon and Ygritte from “Game of Thrones” is frequently cited as one of the most compelling relationships in the series, and it’s easy to understand why. In the books, love is portrayed as a destructive force that undermines duty, and this relationship served as one of Jon’s most significant trials. He violated his vow of celibacy for Ygritte, but what mattered more was the profound shift in his core beliefs that occurred when he experienced the world through her eyes.

Ygritte was a multi-dimensional character, serving as more than just a romantic interest for Jon. She encouraged him to recognize the danger of the White Walkers and the human qualities of the free folk, even though they were on opposing sides in the conflict. Their bond proved unbreakable despite this. Sadly, their relationship ultimately led to both their downfalls – Ygritte died distracted during battle, while Jon became too sympathetic towards the wildlings, which ultimately cost him as well. The issue was that neither of them truly committed to a side.

In the world of Game of Thrones, romances often end tragically due to lovers betraying others for their loved one, but Jon and Ygritte were different. They never truly abandoned their past lives, yet neither found a traditional happy ending. Instead, they both perished because of their romantic involvement. The fact that their story didn’t have a typical happy ending is not unusual in this series, but it made the tragedy of Jon and Ygritte more profound – they lost each other despite never fully committing to one another. Their deaths were not a result of their love, but rather, they met their end because they happened to be in love during an unpropitious time and place.

CLOSE TO PERFECTION: Sansa Stark and Tyrion Lannister (Sanrion)

As “Game of Thrones” came to an end, some viewers speculated that Sansa and Tyrion, if united, could potentially ascend the Iron Throne as a married couple. This romantic notion echoed their relationship with Sandor Clegane: Tyrion never harmed Sansa, despite initial expectations he might. His choice to let her be on their wedding night, and afterwards, stood out starkly against the other arranged marriages in the series, leading many Sansa supporters to view Tyrion as a potential future partner for her.

Once more, as in SanSan, the idea revolves around Sansa maturing to the point where she understands that a successful marriage is built on respect and mutual aspirations, rather than physical attraction. However, what truly attracts fans to this pairing is their shared talent for political maneuvering. Tyrion was strategically astute in earlier times, but it was Sansa who ultimately won the Battle of the Bastards and managed the governance of the North. Furthermore, both characters prioritize honor and kindness, having witnessed the consequences of power wielded without such values.

In the final season, supporters of Tyrion and Sansa’s relationship experienced a significant victory when Tyrion expressed that they should have remained married, to which Sansa responded that he was her most esteemed partner. Although the standard was quite low, this interaction signified that Sansa had grown to appreciate Tyrion’s compassion. If they had decided to be together, they could have formed a formidable duo, providing counsel to the leaders and treating each other with respect. Regrettably, their conversation didn’t lead anywhere, and the most bearable Stark-Lannister pairing in the series remained deceased.

CLOSE TO PERFECTION: Jaime Lannister and Brienne of Tarth (Braime)

In the popular series “A Song of Ice and Fire,” particularly on AO3, Jaime and Brienne are the characters with the highest number of fanfiction entries. This dynamic duo is among the most cherished pairings within the franchise. Their relationship stands out from many others in “Game of Thrones” because they both experienced significant growth as individuals while being together. Through their connection, Jaime evolved into a more compassionate person who valued himself beyond his ties to Cersei and their family name. At the same time, Brienne learned to prioritize her own worth over others’ perceptions of her.

In both the books and the series, they consistently engage in playful banter, show an obvious connection, and stand up for each other – a dynamic that sets Braime apart from the other couples. Unlike many of the show’s romantic pairs who are either bound together by politics or destined to be parted, Braime thrives because it’s based on their own decisions. They have demonstrated mutual respect through acts of rescue and support, with each challenging and encouraging the other.

They’re even endorsed by Cersei Lannister herself (Or, Lena Headey, anyway), who said:

Jaime’s almost one of the purest characters, weirdly, amongst it all. And his change and his education with being with Brienne to becoming a really rounded human being is great.

To put it simply, this show stands out due to its widespread popularity, as very few find fault with it. However, it’s disappointing that the creators seem to be among those few, as they seemingly dismissed Jaime’s relationship and character development in the final season. The portrayal of regression could have added depth, but having Jaime sleep with Brienne only to leave her for Cersei felt disrespectful towards both characters and viewers alike.

CANON SOUL MATES: Arya Stark and Gendry Waters (Gendrya)

Arya has always strayed from the conventional female role, so it’s not surprising that her romance wouldn’t follow traditional paths either. Her friendship with Gendry, formed during their escape from Cersei, provided ample chances for them to stand up for each other. Fans found this relationship appealing as it seemed like a deep connection between two souls. Despite Arya dressing as a boy and Gendry being a Lannister bastard, they appeared to ignore these differences when together.

The way their relationship played out was captivating, but as they diverged, it felt like the end. The curiosity arose when they would meet again, and how their bond could have evolved during their separation. Both had spent decades discovering themselves and understanding what truly mattered, which made their decision to reunite even more significant. Arya once suggested becoming Gendry’s family, and that emotional tie was stronger than any romantic or political connections they might have developed.

In the final season, Sansa and Tyrion’s conclusion felt somewhat underwhelming, similar to how you might describe a fading sunset. They shared an intimate moment, but Arya declined Gendry’s marriage proposal and departed to venture further into the world. While it seemed unlikely that they would embark on a conventional romance, there remained a glimmer of hope that their paths could cross again in the future. Perhaps they would forge a unique bond amidst the turmoil and rebuilding, as fans have envisioned in both the books and their minds.

CANON SOUL MATES: Grey Worm and Missandei

Daenerys Targaryen might not have had many fulfilling romantic connections, yet her two most trusted associates shared an exceptionally strong bond in the world of “Game of Thrones.” For much of their lives, they were deprived of autonomy, only to find power and liberty under Daenerys’ reign. Among these newfound freedoms was the courage to place their hearts and well-being in each other’s care – a risk most characters wouldn’t dare take.

Despite their love story usually taking a backseat amidst the grand political machinations, it made their simple, everyday affection all the more significant. Grey Worm and Missandei were just two normal individuals discovering happiness in each other’s company. Their tale might not have been an extraordinary saga, but it was heartwarming and meaningful.

In much the same way Grey Worm guarded Daenerys with unyielding fervor, he also fiercely protected Missandei. Not only did she aid him in mastering the Common Tongue, but she reminded him of what it meant to be human rather than just an Unsullied warrior. Although some fans might disapprove of their relationship’s outcome or its consequences, Grey Worm would incinerate the entire world for her love – a level of devotion that romance novels have long endeavored to portray.

CANON SOUL MATES: Samwell Tarly and Gilly (Samgilly)

A Knight’s Watch recruit is forbidden from having a spouse or children, but Sam wasn’t initially destined for this life. He was compelled into this role, and despite the challenges, Sam’s most significant contribution to the Watch was his unwavering loyalty—a quality he also showed towards Gilly, the wildling woman.

Initially, it appeared as though Gilly would be a temporary character when Jon and Sam rescued her from her abusive father. However, she soon evolved into something profound, showing affection for Sam as he truly is and even naming her child after him. While Jon and his companions had been protecting Sam, there was often an element of compassion involved. But Gilly simply loved Sam, and he reciprocated that love.

In a different phrasing: Sam, who referred to himself as a coward, bravely slayed a White Walker to safeguard Gilly. As a result, Gilly learned to thrive in various settings to stay with him and nurture their small family. “Game of Thrones,” known for its gritty storylines that endanger the honorable and harm the blameless, presented an exceptional contrast through Sam and Gilly. They demonstrated that even in the darkest times, people can discover joy, and unwavering loyalty and commitment can conquer seemingly impossible obstacles.

In the end, many beloved romantic pairings within the series at least acknowledged their connection, even if they didn’t remain together. Amidst battles, spells, and fear, these fleeting moments of happiness might have been enough for some couples to shine. Whether their love stories concluded in victory or sorrow, these nine relationships undeniably left a lasting impression on the audience and set a challenging benchmark for future romantic entanglements within “ASOIAF.

2024-11-28 18:42

GTA Online’s ‘The Heist Challenge’ Enters its Final Week With Guaranteed Diamonds in the Casino Vault