Garrett, Greg.McCormack, Gordon2019-05-212019-05-2120192019-05-21https://hdl.handle.net/2104/10554This thesis analyzes George R.R. Martin's fantasy series A Song of Ice and Fire through the lens of Niccolò Machiavelli's The Prince, relating the treatise's amoral political philosophy to the kings and queens of fictional Westeros. I particularly argue that, while Martin's cynical series advocates many of The Prince's practical and pragmatic tenets, the author disagrees with the famous assertion that a ruler is safer feared rather than loved. Martin applies the politics espoused within The Prince to a multigenerational view and reveals the instability of rulership built upon fear, showcasing conversely the strength of a subordinate's loyalty when garnered by love. I provide a brief historical background of both The Prince and A Song of Ice and Fire and showcase the similar contexts in which the works were written, before analyzing in-depth the politics and ideologies of several of Martin's fictional rulers and exploring his theme of political legacy.en-USBaylor University projects are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from this source for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without written permission. Contact libraryquestions@baylor.edu for inquiries about permission.Machiavelli.A Song of Ice and Fire.George R.R. Martin.Game of Thrones.Machiavellian politics.Fantasy.Political philosophy.Real politik.Political legacy.Political theory.Tywin Lannister.Eddard Stark.ThesisWorldwide access