Was Cersei scared of Daenerys?

When exploring the dynamic world of 'Game of Thrones', it is important to deeply understand the motivations and perspectives of its central characters, their actions and reactions to the grand plot developments. One such intriguing figure is Queen Cersei Lannister. Often misunderstood, Cersei's perspective on various issues offers insight into her character and the broader politics of Westeros. In this article, we take a Socratic approach to investigate one of the most pressing questions: How does Queen Cersei view the Targaryen threat?

For context, the Targaryen threat refers to the danger posed by the last living members of the once-great Targaryen dynasty - Daenerys and Viserys - who, exiled across the Narrow Sea, dream of reclaiming their rightful place on the Iron Throne. With Daenerys pregnant with Khal Drogo's son, the possibility of a new Targaryen heir heightens the threat.

As Socrates famously suggested, "I cannot teach anybody anything. I can only make them think." So, let's think. To understand Cersei's perspective, we need to delve into her character, past actions, and statements made, notably in the fifth episode of the first season.

Interestingly, Cersei's perspective on the Targaryen threat contradicts the general belief in King Robert's Small Council. As the council, including her brother Renly and Littlefinger, endorse Robert's decision to assassinate Daenerys and her unborn child, Cersei argues against it, siding with Eddard Stark. She notes that the Dothraki, Daenerys' new family and allies, cannot cross the Narrow Sea due to their lack of seafaring prowess.

This argument might initially seem like an underestimation of the threat, but it could also reflect her astute understanding of the Dothraki lifestyle and culture. This lends itself to the Socratic question: "Does Cersei's understanding of foreign cultures and politics highlight a strength in her character that is often overlooked?"

In their subsequent conversation, Cersei engages Robert in a discussion about the Targaryens and the hypothetical scenario of Dothraki invasion. Robert argues that if the knights of Westeros hide behind their castle walls, the Dothraki could ravage the kingdom, turning the smallfolk against their local lords. Cersei, however, counters this by stating that the unified armies of the Seven Kingdoms could defeat them.

So, why does Cersei, who has time and again proved to be ruthlessly pragmatic, resist the idea of preemptive action against the Targaryens? This leads us to another Socratic inquiry: "Does Cersei's resistance hint at her inherent respect for the rules of warfare, or does it mask a deeper political strategy?"

We can interpret her actions as an aversion to unnecessary violence, especially towards innocents like Daenerys' unborn child. Cersei, a mother herself, might empathize with Daenerys on a maternal level. However, contradictorily, her past actions display her readiness to commit brutal acts if necessary. So, another question to ponder: "Is Cersei's stance rooted in her personal sense of morality or a strategic manipulation to prevent more chaos in the realm?"

Remember, Cersei's worldview is shaped by her experiences as a woman in a male-dominated society. Her perception of the Targaryen threat may also be influenced by her experience with prophecy. The prophecy of Maggy the Frog, from Cersei's childhood, foretold the demise of her children and her eventual overthrow by a younger and more beautiful queen. Could Cersei see Daenerys as the fulfillment of this prophecy?

This contemplation leads us to ask: "Is Cersei's perception of the Targaryen threat affected more by personal fear driven by prophecy than a strategic evaluation?"

Delving into Cersei's character and perspective on the Targaryen threat underscores the complexity of 'Game of Thrones'. By probing assumptions and posing Socratic questions, we can better understand the multifaceted characters and the intricate politics of Westeros. As with all things in this beloved series, the truth is never just skin-deep and offers an engaging exploration into the human condition and the world at large.