House Lannister is one of the most powerful and influential noble houses in the Seven Kingdoms, renowned for its wealth, cunning, and ruthless ambition. Its seat is the opulent Casterly Rock, a fortress perched atop a cliff overlooking the western coast of Westeros.
The most famous members of House Lannister are Tyrion, Jaime, Tywin, and the Lannister Queen Cersei.
Who are the Lannisters in Game of Thrones
The origins of House Lannister can be traced back to the Age of Heroes when the Lannisters were a minor family of Andal nobles who arrived in the Westerlands. The family’s fortunes began with the rise of the legendary King of the Rock, Lann the Clever. According to legend, Lann swindled the Casterlys. This ancient family ruled Casterly Rock before the Lannisters out of their castle through guile, trickery, and cunning. From then on, the Lannisters became the new lords of the Westerlands and have held power ever since.
House Lannister Family Tree
House Lannister’s family tree is a complex, interconnected web of marriages, alliances, and betrayals. The family has been involved in many of the most significant events in the history of Westeros, including the War of the Five Kings and the Dance of Dragons.
Over the years, the Lannisters continued to expand their influence and wealth. They became the richest and most powerful House in the Seven Kingdoms, primarily due to the vast gold mines located beneath Casterly Rock. The Lannisters also established themselves as shrewd politicians and skilled warriors, forging alliances with other Houses and amassing a formidable army.
During the reign of Tywin Lannister, the House’s power and wealth reached new heights. Tywin served as Hand of the King to Aerys II Targaryen. His strategic alliances and military prowess helped solidify the Lannisters’ place as the dominant House in Westeros. His children, Cersei, Jaime, and Tyrion, played significant roles in the House’s fortunes, with Cersei becoming Queen of the Seven Kingdoms and Jaime serving as a highly respected member of the Kingsguard.
Despite their wealth and power, the Lannisters also faced their fair share of challenges and setbacks. During Robert’s Rebellion, they initially supported Aerys II Targaryen. Eventually, they switched sides to support the victorious rebel forces led by Robert Baratheon. More recently, the Lannisters suffered significant losses during the War of the Five Kings, with Tywin, Cersei’s children, and numerous Lannister soldiers all perishing in the conflict.
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House Lannister’s rise to power was founded on the cunning and resourcefulness of Lann the Clever and sustained through the strategic alliances and military prowess of subsequent generations. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks over the years, the Lannisters remain one of the most influential and powerful Houses in Westeros.
The Imp of House Lannister, Tyrion
Tyrion Lannister, also known as the “Imp” or “Halfman,” is one of the most complex and fascinating characters in the world of Game of Thrones. He is the youngest son of Lord Tywin Lannister and his wife Joanna and was born a dwarf, which made him the subject of ridicule and scorn from his father and siblings.
Despite his physical limitations, Tyrion is a highly intelligent and cunning individual with a sharp wit and a talent for strategy and manipulation. He is well-educated, well-read, and speaks several languages, which makes him a valuable asset in diplomatic and political negotiations.
The Imp
Tyrion’s journey throughout the series is tumultuous, as he constantly struggles to prove himself in a world that sees him as inferior. He is initially portrayed as a drunken womanizer who uses his wit and charm to mask his pain and insecurities. However, as the series progresses, Tyrion’s true character begins to shine through. He shows himself to be compassionate and empathetic, caring deeply for those around him.
Key political player
Throughout the series, Tyrion serves as a key player in Westeros’s politics and power struggles. He serves as Hand of the King to both Joffrey Baratheon and Daenerys Targaryen. He uses his cleverness and intelligence to help them navigate the complex web of alliances and enemies threatening their rule.
Tyrion Lannister is a complex and multifaceted character whose journey through the series is marked by both triumphs and tragedies. He is one of the most beloved and iconic characters in the Game of Thrones universe. His legacy will continue to be felt long after the series has ended.
Hand of the Queen
After fleeing Westeros following his trial for the murder of King Joffrey, Tyrion eventually made his way to Essos, where he met Daenerys Targaryen. He offered his services to her, and she eventually named him her Hand of the Queen. Tyrion proved himself a valuable advisor to Daenerys, especially during her campaigns in Slaver’s Bay and her invasion of Westeros.
However, during the final stages of the war for the Iron Throne, Tyrion’s allegiances were tested when he realized that Daenerys’ increasing tyranny could lead to disastrous consequences for the realm. Despite his love and loyalty to Daenerys, he conspired with Jon Snow to assassinate her and was subsequently imprisoned for his actions.
After her death, Tyrion was imprisoned by the new King, Bran Stark, but was ultimately pardoned and named Hand of the King.
In his role as Hand, Tyrion proved himself once again as a wise and capable advisor, helping to rebuild the Seven Kingdoms in the aftermath of the war. He made difficult choices, including negotiating with the rulers of the independent kingdoms and convincing Jon Snow to take the black once again. Ultimately, he ensured the realm had a peaceful and stable future under King Bran’s rule.
Relationships of the members of House Lannister with Tyrion
Tyrion’s relationship with his family, particularly his siblings Jaime and Cersei and his father Tywin, is complex and tumultuous throughout the series.
Tyrion and Jaime
Despite their vastly different personalities and life paths, Jaime and Tyrion share a close bond. Jaime has always protected Tyrion and is one of the few who understand him. Jaime often defends Tyrion when their father or sister disparages him. Tyrion admires Jaime’s strength and skill as a warrior.
On the other hand, Tyrion’s relationship with Cersei is fraught with tension and resentment. Cersei has always blamed Tyrion for their mother’s death during childbirth. She often belittles and tries to sabotage him. Tyrion, in turn, is repulsed by Cersei’s cruelty and selfishness, and he frequently clashes with her over politics and strategy.
Relationship with his father Tywin
Tyrion’s relationship with his father, Tywin, is perhaps the most strained. Tywin hates Tyrion for his physical deformity and blames him for the death of his wife, Joanna. Tywin frequently humiliates and belittles Tyrion, and the two often argue about politics and the future of the Lannister family. However, despite Tywin’s disdain for Tyrion, he recognizes his intelligence and strategic prowess. He reluctantly appoints him as the Hand of the King during the War of the Five Kings.
The Patriarch of House Lannister, Tywin
Tywin Lannister is one of the most prominent members of House Lannister, known for his political savvy, strategic thinking, and ruthless tactics. Tywin was born the eldest son of Tytos Lannister and his wife, Jeyne Marbrand. As a child, Tywin was a serious and disciplined boy who took his responsibilities seriously as the future lord of Casterly Rock. He received an excellent education from some of the most renowned tutors in the Seven Kingdoms. He quickly became known for his intelligence, cunning, and ambition.
As Hand of the Mad King
Tywin’s most significant role in Westerosi politics came when he was appointed the Hand of the King to Aerys II Targaryen, the Mad King. Tywin served in this position for many years, bringing stability and prosperity to the Seven Kingdoms. However, his relationship with the Mad King eventually soured. Tywin resigned in disgust after Aerys refused to allow him to marry his daughter, Cersei, to Prince Rhaegar Targaryen.
During Robert’s Rebellion
During Robert’s Rebellion, Tywin initially remained neutral, waiting to see which side would emerge victorious. However, after Robert Baratheon’s victory at the Battle of the Trident, Tywin saw an opportunity to ally himself with the new King and sent his forces to sack King’s Landing. This act effectively ended the rebellion and led to the downfall of House Targaryen.
As the Hand of King Robert
After the war, Tywin was appointed the Hand of the King to Robert Baratheon and served for many years. During that time, he restored the finances of the Seven Kingdoms. He brought a period of peace and stability to the realm. He remained in this position even after Robert’s death, serving as the Hand of the King to Joffrey Baratheon, Robert’s son.
Relationship with Tyrion
Tywin’s relationship with his son Tyrion was notoriously fraught, and the two had many public and private disagreements throughout Tyrion’s life. Their relationship reached a breaking point when Tyrion was accused of murdering Joffrey, and Tywin presided over his trial. Despite Tyrion’s protestations of innocence, Tywin found him guilty and sentenced him to death.
Tyrion answered in kind, murdering his father and former lover and escaping to Essos.
Legacy
Tywin’s legacy in Westeros is a complicated one. On the one hand, he was a skilled and capable leader who brought prosperity and stability to the realm. On the other hand, his tactics were often ruthless and cruel, and his willingness to use violence to achieve his goals made him many enemies. Nevertheless, there is no denying that Tywin Lannister was one of the most powerful and influential figures in Westeros’ history. His legacy continues to be felt long after his death.
The Knight of House Lannister, Jaime
Jaime Lannister is the eldest son of Tywin Lannister and Joanna Lannister and the twin brother of Cersei. From a young age, Jaime was known for his exceptional swordsmanship skills and was seen as a promising knight. He was appointed to the Kingsguard at a young age by Aerys Targaryen after he had saved his life during a rebellion.
The Kingslayer
Jaime’s most infamous act was the murder of Aerys Targaryen. The Mad King had ordered the burning of King’s Landing, but Jaime killed him to prevent the massacre. This earned him the nickname “Kingslayer” and made him an outcast in the eyes of many.
The War of the Five Kings
During the War of the Five Kings, Jaime was captured by Robb Stark’s forces and held as a prisoner. However, he was eventually released with Catelyn Stark’s brother in a prisoner exchange. Jaime then returned to King’s Landing and was appointed as Hand of the King by his father, Tywin. He began to take a more active role in the politics of the city, working to secure the Lannisters’ hold on the throne.
Fall from grace
However, Jaime’s fall from grace came when he was caught having an affair with his sister, Cersei. His hand was cut off by one of Roose Bolton’s men, and his reputation was further damaged. After this event, Jaime became more introspective and reflective, showing a softer side of his character.
Repentance
Later on, Jaime traveled to Winterfell to help defend the North from the Army of the White Walkers. While there, he connected with Brienne of Tarth, who was initially assigned to escort him back to King’s Landing. Jaime later chose to stay in Winterfell to fight alongside the living, showing that he had developed a sense of honor and loyalty beyond his family’s interests.
After the battle, he left his now former allies and returned to his lover, sister, and queen – Cersei. The two eventually died in a rather Shakespearean manner, holding hands while Daenerys destroyed King’s Landing.
Character
Despite his many flaws, Jaime Lannister is a complex character who undergoes significant development throughout the series. His actions and choices ultimately contribute to the outcome of many of the show’s significant events.
Relationship with the rest of the Lannisters
Jaime Lannister’s relationships with his family members are complex and multi-layered, shaped by his actions, circumstances, and their own personalities.
Relationship with Tywin
His relationship with his father, Tywin Lannister, was one of admiration and respect, but also complicated by Tywin’s high expectations of his eldest son. Tywin saw Jaime as his heir and expected him to follow in his footsteps as a capable and ruthless leader. However, Jaime’s decision to join the Kingsguard, which prevented him from inheriting his father’s title and lands, caused a rift between them. Tywin saw it as a betrayal and was deeply disappointed in Jaime, leading to a strained relationship.
His affair with Cersei
Jaime’s relationship with his twin sister, Cersei, was one of intense love and passion but also had its dark side. Jaime and Cersei were inseparable since childhood, and their relationship turned romantic and sexual as they grew older. They had a complicated on-again, off-again affair that resulted in the births of their three children. However, their relationship was also destructive and toxic, and it caused both of them to make questionable decisions that ultimately led to their downfall.
The Queen of House Lannister, Cersei
Cersei Lannister is the eldest child of Tywin and Joanna Lannister. As a young woman, she was betrothed to Rhaegar Targaryen, the Prince of Dragonstone and heir to the Iron Throne. Cersei deeply loved Rhaegar, but their wedding was ultimately called off. Rhaegar married Elia Martell of Dorne instead.
Rise as Queen
After Robert Baratheon’s successful rebellion against the Targaryens, Cersei married Robert as part of a political alliance. However, Cersei did not love Robert and instead continued to harbor feelings for Jaime.
As Queen of the Seven Kingdoms, Cersei wielded significant power but faced many challenges. She struggled to maintain control over her son Joffrey, who became increasingly cruel and unpredictable. After Joffrey’s death, Cersei became the Dowager Queen and regent to her younger son, Tommen.
Throughout her time as Queen, Cersei was a skilled player of the game of thrones but also made many enemies. She was ruthless in her pursuit of power, willing to do whatever it took to protect herself and her children. However, her actions ultimately led to her downfall and the downfall of her house.
Relationship with her children
Cersei fiercely protected her children, particularly Joffrey, who she believed was destined to be a great king. She was deeply disappointed when Joffrey proved cruel and capricious but continued defending him fiercely in public. She also had a strong bond with her daughter Myrcella, whom she sent away to Dorne to keep her safe from the Lannisters’ enemies.
After Joffrey’s death, Cersei became obsessed with protecting her remaining child, Tommen. She groomed him to be a pliable king and was heavily involved in his rule. She even went as far as to strip him of his independence by using the Faith Militant to control the royal family.
However, Tommen’s eventual suicide deeply impacted Cersei, leaving her with grief and rage. Her loss of her children catalyzed her eventual descent into madness and her determination to take revenge on her enemies at all costs.
Relationship with Tywin
Cersei had a complicated relationship with her father, Tywin. She was his eldest child, and he had high expectations of her, but he often criticized her for not being as capable as a son would be. Tywin also disapproved of Cersei’s affair with Jaime, which she had kept hidden for many years. Despite this, Cersei still loved and respected her father and often sought his advice, even if she didn’t always follow it.
The deep hatred for Tyrion
Cersei’s relationship with her younger brother, Tyrion, was even more strained. She blamed him for their mother’s death during childbirth, and she believed that he was responsible for the deaths of her children. Cersei often treated Tyrion with disdain and openly wished that he was dead. In turn, Tyrion was one of the few people who openly challenged Cersei and saw through her manipulations.
Their relationship reached its lowest point when Tyrion was accused of poisoning Joffrey and was put on trial for his life. Cersei was determined to see him convicted and executed. She even went so far as to bring in a champion to fight for her during Tyrion’s trial by combat. However, Tyrion was ultimately able to escape and flee Westeros with the help of Varys, leaving Cersei filled with anger and resentment towards him.
Her bond with Jaime
Cersei’s relationship with Jaime is perhaps the most controversial and complicated one in the entire series. As mentioned earlier, Cersei and Jaime are twins and have a deep, romantic relationship. They have been intimately involved since they were teenagers and have three children. Despite the taboo nature of their relationship, they continue to be devoted to each other throughout the series.
Their relationship becomes increasingly strained as the series progresses. Jaime becomes disillusioned with Cersei’s actions and decisions, particularly her decision to blow up the Sept of Baelor, killing many innocent people. He eventually leaves Cersei and rides North to join the fight against the White Walkers, which is a significant turning point in his character arc.
On the other hand, Cersei becomes increasingly obsessed with holding onto power and keeping her family on the Iron Throne. She is angry and resentful when Jaime leaves her, leading her to make even more ruthless and destructive decisions. In the end, their relationship is torn apart by Cersei’s destructive actions and Jaime’s growing conscience.
Despite their complicated relationship, there is no denying that Jaime and Cersei loved each other deeply. Their love was often seen as one of the series’ most tragic and heartbreaking aspects.
The home of House Lannister, Casterly Rock
Casterly Rock is a fortress located on a rocky promontory overlooking the Sunset Sea on the western coast of Westeros. It is the ancestral seat of House Lannister and has been their stronghold for thousands of years. The castle is built into the rock and is considered impregnable, with thick walls and numerous defenses, including portcullises, murder holes, and scalding oil.
Beneath the castle lies the famous gold mines of Casterly Rock, which have been the primary source of the Lannisters’ wealth for centuries. The gold from these mines is said to be of the purest quality in the world, and it is estimated that the Lannisters have enough wealth to buy entire kingdoms. The Lannisters also use their wealth to maintain their power and influence in the Seven Kingdoms and to fund their military campaigns and lavish lifestyle.
The gold mines of the Lannisters
The mines have been the subject of several conflicts throughout history, including a rebellion by the Reynes of Castamere, who attempted to seize control of the mines and establish themselves as a rival to the Lannisters. The Lannisters defeated the rebellion and famously wiped out the entire House of Castamere, inspiring the song “The Rains of Castamere.”
Despite their wealth and power, the Lannisters have faced financial troubles recently due to their expensive lifestyle and the high costs of their military campaigns. The depletion of the gold mines has also contributed to their financial difficulties, leading them to seek loans and alliances with other houses.
Conclusion
The Lannisters are a major political player during Game of Thrones thanks to the Lannister leader, Tywin, Cersei’s ambition, Jaime’s martial prowess, and Tyrion’s sway. Their riches, strength in numbers, and capabilities place them firmly at the helm of the Westerosi leadership.
Frequently asked questions
Who was the last surviving member of House Lannister in GoT?
The last surviving member of House Lannister is Tyrion. He ends the show serving as the Hand of King Bran I.
What are the words for House Lannister?
The Lannisters have popularized a couple of catchphrases along with their house motto. Their original words are “Hear Me Roar,” but their most-popular phrase is “A Lannister always pays his debts.” In the show, we even see Bran mistaking them and getting scolded by old Nan.
Did Tyrion ever get married?
Tyrion starts the show as a notorious womanizer, but he was actually married twice. Along with the rest, he was first married to a prostitute named Tysha.