You esteem this Penrose more than you do my lords…
““You esteem this Penrose more than you do my lords bannermen. Why?” “He keeps faith.” “A misplaced faith in a dead usurper.” “Yes,” Davos admitted, “but still, he keeps faith.” “As those behind us do not?” Davos had come too far with Stannis to play coy now. “Last year they were Robert’s men. A moon ago they were Renly’s. This morning they are yours. Whose will they be on the morrow?” And Stannis laughed. A sudden gust, rough and full of scorn. “I told you, Melisandre,” he said to the red woman, “my Onion Knight tells me the truth.” “I see you know him well, Your Grace,” the red woman said. “Davos, I have missed you sorely,” the king said. “Aye, I have a tail of traitors, your nose does not deceive you. My lords bannermen are inconstant even in their treasons. I need them, but you should know how it sickens me to pardon such as these when I have punished better men for lesser crimes. You have every right to reproach me, Ser Davos.” “You reproach yourself more than I ever could, Your Grace. You must have these great lords to win your throne—” “Fingers and all, it seems.” Stannis smiled grimly.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Stannis wrestles with loyalty, faith, and the fickle nature of his bannermen, questioning whether allegiance is based on honor or convenience.
In simple terms: Stannis doubts his followers’ loyalty and wonders about true faith.
Key Takeaway
Consider the cost of demanding loyalty.
Themes
loyalty
faith
politics
betrayal
leadership
Mood
grim
reflective
tense
Type
dialogue
dramatic
political
When to use this quote
- court intrigue
- military command
- personal counsel
- public speeches
Key Concepts
feudal loyalty
political pragmatism
trust
authority
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you trust leaders who demand blind loyalty?
- How does shifting allegiance affect trust?
A Different Perspective
Stannis’ reliance on faith may ignore practical governance needs.