Loyalty in the Vale: Jon Snow, Robert Arryn, and Petyr Baelish

In the tumultuous world of A Song of Ice and Fire, the loyalty of the Knights of the Vale is a complex and shifting allegiance. Traditionally, these knights have sworn their loyalty to House Arryn, the ruling family of the Vale. This allegiance finds its reflection in their support of Lord Robert Arryn, the current head of House Arryn. However, the dynamics of loyalty take a sharp turn with the arrival of Petyr Baelish, Petyr Baelish or Littlefinger, whose manipulative schemes play a pivotal role in swaying the knights' support.

Foundation of Loyalty

Historically, the Knights of the Vale have been sworn to House Arryn. Their primary obligation is to Lord Robert Arryn, a role that would naturally steer their loyalties towards him. As the eldest son and heir to the Vale, Robert Arryn theoretically holds the ultimate authority and command over these powerful knights. This arrangement reinforces a system where knights and lords stand as one, their fates intertwined, and their loyalties mutually bound.

The Influence of Littlefinger

However, the loyalties of the Knights of the Vale become complicated with the rise of Petyr Baelish, a cunning and manipulative figure from the south. By the time events unfold during Season 6 of Game of Thrones, Baelish has established himself as the de facto ruler of the Vale, through his marriage to Lysa Arryn and his control over houses such as Royce and Waynwood. Baelish's influence extends beyond mere marriage ties; he leverages his position to secure the allegiance of the Knights of the Vale, first to his own ends and then to Jon Snow's cause.

Shifting Allegiances

Initially, the Knights follow Robert Arryn as their rightful lord, but Baelish's strategic manipulations gradually shift their allegiance. By offering strategic alliances, bounties, and promises, Baelish is able to mobilize the knights who, once loyal to Robert Arryn, now rally behind Jon Snow in his fight against Ramsay Bolton. This shift is not merely a change in loyalty; it is a calculated move by Baelish to regain control of the Vale and protect his interests.

Challenges and Complexities

Despite their support for Jon Snow during critical moments, the Knights' loyalty remains closest to House Arryn, whose authority is symbolized by the current lord, Robert Arryn. This means that if Robert Arryn should object to Jon Snow's reign, the knights might shift back to their original allegiance, even if it means defying Baelish. The knights do not have a single, unswerving loyalty; instead, their allegiance is a complex interplay of personal interests, strategic alliances, and the currents of power in the Vale.

Conclusion

The Knights of the Vale operate within a landscape of shifting loyalties, where personal and political ambitions collide. Their allegiance to Robert Arryn is rooted in their vows and cultural expectations, but Petyr Baelish has temporarily reshaped their loyalties, first to himself and then to Jon Snow. As the series unfolds, their loyalties continue to be a subtle, yet crucial, battleground in the ongoing power struggle of the Seven Kingdoms.

Understanding the dynamics of loyalty among the Knights of the Vale sheds light on the intricate political maneuvers and personal ambitions that drive the events of the A Song of Ice and Fire saga. From the traditional allegiance to House Arryn to the manipulative grasp of Petyr Baelish, these knights serve as a microcosm of the complex political landscape of Westeros.