Was Shae working for Tywin the whole time?
Background:
Shae, a prostitute of foreign origin, enters the story of Game of Thrones when she is hired by Tyrion Lannister. Over time, their relationship transforms from a mere transactional arrangement to what seems like true love. However, in a shocking turn of events, Shae betrays Tyrion during his trial and is later found in Tywin Lannister's bed. This has led to speculation about her true allegiance.
Evidence for Shae working for Tywin:
Shae's sudden appearance: Shae's introduction into the story occurs when Tyrion requires a companion. It is worth considering that Tywin, knowing his son's proclivities, could have arranged for Shae to enter Tyrion's life and manipulate him.
The trial testimony: Shae's damning testimony against Tyrion at his trial for Joffrey's murder is suspicious. It is possible that Tywin, anticipating Tyrion's inevitable arrest, instructed Shae to fabricate evidence against his son to secure a guilty verdict.
Shae in Tywin's bed: The discovery of Shae in Tywin's bed is the most incriminating evidence. It suggests that she was in league with Tywin, either seducing him for personal gain or following his orders to betray Tyrion.
Evidence against Shae working for Tywin:
Genuine affection for Tyrion: Shae demonstrates genuine affection for Tyrion on numerous occasions, even risking her life by remaining in King's Landing despite the danger. If she were merely Tywin's spy, she would have little reason to risk her own safety.
Anger at Tyrion's dismissal: When Tyrion attempts to send Shae away for her own safety, she becomes angry and hurt. This reaction implies that she genuinely cared for Tyrion and was not merely carrying out Tywin's orders.
Circumstantial evidence: It is important to note that while Shae's actions raise suspicions, there is no direct evidence proving her connection to Tywin. It is equally possible that she acted out of self-preservation or opportunism.
Conclusion:
After carefully considering the evidence, I conclude that it is unlikely Shae was working for Tywin Lannister the entire time. While her actions at the trial and her presence in Tywin's bed are highly suspicious, there are numerous instances where her genuine affection for Tyrion is evident. It is more plausible that Shae, motivated by self-preservation and a sense of betrayal, chose to align herself with Tywin when faced with an uncertain future.
In the end, the evidence points towards a complex, opportunistic character driven by survival and shifting loyalties rather than a calculated pawn of Tywin Lannister.
