The Complexities of the Crown's Consent: Why the Citadel Allowed Wars Despite Proof of Rhaegar’s Annullment

The intricate political tapestry of Westeros during the events leading to Robert's Rebellion is often complex and multifaceted. Central to many discussions is the question of why the Citadel, with access to seemingly irrefutable evidence, did not prevent the outbreak of war. This paper seeks to delve into this question, presenting a new perspective that challenges the conventional understanding.

Understanding the Historical Context

Robert's Rebellion, which began following the controversial "abduction" of Lyanna Stark by Rhaegar Targaryen, was sparked by a much deeper and more culpable set of actions. Though Rhaegar’s annulment of his marriage and subsequent marriage to Lyanna created a political nightmare, it was not the sole or direct cause of the war. In particular, King Aerys II Targaryen's violent and unjust actions, such as killing Ned Stark's father and brother, and the order for their deaths later, played a crucial role in igniting the rebellion.

The Role of Private Records

One must consider the nature of the evidence that was available. The journal entries allegedly recorded by High Septon Maynard, who was involved in the annulment and subsequent marriage, were not officially recorded in the Citadel’s extensive library. Instead, these documents were found in a private diary. This detail is critical because it makes the information less accessible to the public and more challenging for the Citadel to act upon without specific inquiries and thorough investigations.

The Long-Term Impact of Annullment and Marriage

The annulment and marriage had profound, albeit long-term, implications. On one hand, it provided a moral justification for Lyanna and Rhaegar’s union and a face-saving solution for Rhaegar. It also created political instability by leaving two potential claimants to the throne illegitimate and creating rivals for Rhaegar's child by Lyanna.

Had the High Septon or the public known about these records earlier, it is possible that negotiations could have averted the war. However, the information was not widely known, and it took time to gather and verify. The potential impact of such a crucial record might have been visible only with the benefit of hindsight, making it less of a motivating factor at the time of the rebellion.

The Delayed Impact and Lack of Direct Authority

A notable point is that the High Septon Maynard’s diary was not discovered by the Citadel until after High Septon Maynard's death. This delay could have spanned years, during which political and social upheavals continued. Furthermore, the authority of the Citadel in matters of marriage annulments, especially with sentiments so strong as those of King Aerys, was not absolute. Even if the Citadel had known about the records, it is unlikely they could have intervened without the explicit permission or directive of the King.

Other Historical Incidents and Precedents

Contextualizing these events within the broader political landscape of Westeros, we see other instances where individuals acting outside the direct authority of the crown could influence significant political shifts. The Rebellion known as Whotten's Rebellion provides a parallel where the actions of a few individuals, driven by personal grievances, triggered far-reaching consequences.

Conclusion: The Citadel’s Limited Influence

In conclusion, the failure of the Citadel to prevent Robert's Rebellion, despite having access to detailed records, is more a testament to the complicated nature of political alliances and the limitations of an institution that relies on official records. The power of the annulment and marriage to Rhaegar was overshadowed by more immediate and violent actions by King Aerys, culminating in the events that truly turned the tide of Westeros.

The story of the annulment and marriage of Rhaegar Targaryen and the subsequent delay in its dissemination highlight the challenges faced by authoritative institutions in Westeros. The limited reach and delayed impact of private records underscore the complexity and often unpredictable nature of political conflicts in the realm.