Why Did Littlefinger Help Jon in the Battle of the Bastards?

Littlefinger, also known as Petyr Baelish, played a pivotal role in the Battle of the Bastards by secretly aiding Jon Snow. This act of manipulation was rooted in a complex web of strategic motivations, from self-preservation to personal interests. In this article, we will explore the multifaceted reasons behind Littlefinger's actions, analyze his motivations, and delve into the political landscape of Westeros that influenced his decisions.

Political Manipulation

Littlefinger's primary motivation was his long-term political manipulation. By supporting Jon, he aimed to fortify the Stark presence in the North, a critical area of strategic importance. This move would benefit him in several ways:

Creating a Stronger Stark Presence: By backing Jon, Littlefinger hoped to create a formidable Stark force that could serve as a check on other powerful families, such as the Lannisters or even the Targaryens. A stronger Stark family in the North would be more valuable for his own ambitions. Expanding his Influence: Supporting Jon would position Littlefinger as a loyal ally to the North, giving him greater leverage in future dealings and discussions about the future of Westeros. Stabilizing the North: By contributing to the downfall of the Boltons, Littlefinger weakened a significant rival and created a power vacuum in the North. This instability could provide him with more opportunities to maneuver and solidify his position.

Sansa Stark and Romantic Obsession

Littlefinger's assistance to Jon was also driven by his hidden romantic interest in Sansa Stark. His ultimate goal was to become a protector and ally to Sansa, positioning himself as someone she would trust and rely on. This move was part of his broader strategy to gain control over her and, by extension, her influence in the North:

Protecting Sansa: By helping Jon win the battle, Littlefinger positioned himself as a protector of Sansa, increasing his influence over her. This move was not out of noble intentions but a calculated attempt to secure his future through her. Cost-Benefit Analysis: Sansa was seen by Littlefinger as a valuable asset in his political strategy. By supporting her and Jon, he could control her future and use her influence to further his own goals.

Self-Preservation and Power Plays

Self-preservation was another significant driving force behind Littlefinger's actions. He saw the potential for danger in the current power dynamics:

Opposing Ramsay Bolton: Littlefinger recognized that supporting Jon was a safer bet than backing Ramsay Bolton. If Ramsay remained in power, Littlefinger's position in the Vale and his influence in the region would be jeopardized. By aligning with Jon, he could potentially gain favor with the new Lord Commander and secure his position in the North. Strategically Weakening the Starks: By aiding Jon, Littlefinger also aimed to weaken the Stark family, which is a critical step towards his ultimate goal of ruling Westeros. Weakening the Starks would free up resources and political space for him to manipulate and control. Creating Chaos for Opportunity: Littlefinger thrives in chaos and instability. By helping Jon, he could create further unrest and turmoil throughout the Seven Kingdoms, providing him with more opportunities to advance his own power. A weakened Stark family, especially with Jon's potential death, would leave the North vulnerable to his control.

Conclusion and Theories

Littlefinger's motives for aiding Jon in the Battle of the Bastards are complex and open to interpretation. While his actions were driven by a mix of self-preservation, personal interests, and strategic power plays, the true extent of his motivations remains shrouded in mystery. Whatever his reasons, Littlefinger's help to Jon underscored his reputation as a master manipulator in the political landscape of Westeros.