Monday 21 September 2015

a song of ice and fire - Why didn't Sansa leave with the Hound?

I always thought this particular part was poorly explained in the books. Sandor has proven himself to Sansa many times, by saving her life, confiding in her, protecting her, etc. To the reader, it is clear that Sandor develops a bond with Sansa. I assume the reason she stays is that she is afraid of him, and she hesitates long enough for him to leave. Had she been given more time to decide, I think she would have gone with him.



But of course, she also has her secret friend (at least in the books), who has promised to rescue her, and she may be counting that as a safer option. Sandor's offer must seem very "spur of the moment" to her, and she did not know what to make of it. When they meet in her chambers, there is a distinct feel of potential rape in the air, when he comes to claim his "song" from her. I expect she would not feel safe alone with him on the road.



And of course, there is the meta-reason of plot development. Both Sansa and Sandor have other roles to fill further on in the story.



And lastly, of course, Sansa is the queen of bad decisions. If not for her poor decision making, her wolf Lady would be alive, her and Arya would have fled to Winterfell, Ned would be alive (perhaps).



It is interesting to note, however, the canine aspect of all the siblings also apply to Sansa. Sansa may have lost Lady, but she easily charms The Hound, and earns herself a new fierce protector.

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