Melisandre

Melisandre

92
    Game of Thrones
Photo Credit: Everett Collection

Character Analysis

(Avoiding Spoilers)

Living... on the island of Dragonstone as a priestess of the Lord of the Light. Melisandre’s past is shrouded in mystery, and next to nothing is known about her life before she crossed the narrow sea to the land of Westeros. In Westeros most people worship the Seven, but Melisandre proclaims the Seven as false Gods, and insists that Stannis pledge himself to follow her God – a lord of light and fire. 

Profession... priestess. She is also a top advisor to Stannis Baratheon, who is attempting to overtake the throne from his nephew Joffrey. After King Robert Baratheon – Stannis’ brother – died, both Stannis and his youngest brother Renly made claims to the throne. Stannis lacks the charisma and widespread support that Renly has, or that Robert had. Stannis’ primary potential advantage is Melisandre, and her prophecies and miracles. 

Interests… religion. Melisandre devotes her life to the fire god. She believes that Stannis Baratheon is a prophesized hero called “Lightbringer,” and she is dedicated to ensuring that he survives to drive back the darkness in the world, as has been foretold.

Relationship Status... single, but complicated. Though Stannis is married, Melisandre has made him fall in love with her. It’s unclear if she loves him back. What is clear is she sees him as “the Lord’s chosen” and will do whatever she has to in order to gain his ear, and his loyalty. 

Challenge... being taken seriously. As the priestess of a deity whom few in Westeros worship, it can be hard for Melisandre to get powerful men to listen to her, even as she makes creepy, cryptic threats. Stannis’ right-hand man, Davos, does not respect her at first, but her steadfast devotion to both Stannis and the Lord of the Light makes him take notice. Her almost regal bearing also converts plenty of non-believers, if not necessarily that her god is the right one then that she is a force to be reckoned with.        

Personality... alluring, enigmatic and confident. Melisandre is often eerily calm but when she speaks of her Lord, she’s as striking as her all-red outfit. Her pet phrase “The night is dark and full of terrors” isn’t just a prayer ­– it’s a threat she makes to her enemies. When it comes from someone as mysterious and spooky as Melisandre, they listen.

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