Who Advises the King of the Seven Kingdoms: The Role of the Hand and the Small Council

In the expansive world of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, the political landscape of the Seven Kingdoms is intricately woven with complex alliances, treacherous plots, and the weight of rule. Central to this intricate web is the advisory structure of the monarchy, safeguarded by the Hand of the King and the Small Council. This article delves into the roles of these crucial advisors, unraveling the layers of governance and political maneuvering in Westeros.

The Hand of the King: A King's Right Hand Man

The Hand of the King is the king’s chief minister and de facto highest-ranking member of the Small Council. Historically, the title is given to a person of immense loyalty and trust who serves as a caretaker and advisor, often transitioning from the previous king’s Hand. This role is not only one of great power but also one of immense responsibility, as the Hand is expected to support the monarchy, oversee administrative functions, and handle foreign relations. The position is akin to a Prime Minister in contemporary governance systems.

Case in point, Probert Preston was the Hand of the King during and after the reign of Jamacar the Last. During a pivotal series of battles, one of the main characters, Ser Wylis Flint, relinquished his position as Hand in the aftermath of the war, a moment that upended the balance of power within the realm. The Hand of the King's role often includes stepping in when the monarch is away or unable to rule due to death, illness, or personal reasons. The Hand must possess a keen political acumen, a strong understanding of the kingdom’s laws and customs, and the ability to navigate the treacherous waters of court politics.

The Small Council: The Inner Circle of Advisors

The Small Council is a gathering of seven advisors, often seen as the king's inner circle, collectively known as "Beyond the Griffin's Throne," "Beyond the Reach of Dragons," or "The Seven." This council is integral to the kingdom's governance, and each member is appointed by the king or, in the absence of a reigning king, by a regent. The Small Council's roles are diverse and include everything from foreign affairs to financial matters, and each member brings their unique expertise to the table.

Probert Preston led the Small Council for the longest time, with members such as Albert Eltham as Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, Augris Sable as Master of Coin, Declan Leavary as Master of Laws, and Glenn the Jarman as Master of Whisperers. Their duties were divided among the realm’s major administrative and legal spheres. The addition of more members, like Rane Sable and Frame Nilfaire, brought a fresh set of perspectives and expertise, while Augris and Laudin Nilfaire would often clash politically, reflecting the complex and often contentious nature of the Small Council.

Responsibilities and Powers of the Advisors

Each member of the Small Council holds significant responsibilities and powers that shape the governance and administration of the Seven Kingdoms. These advisors are crucial to not only advancing the interests of the monarch but also ensuring the smooth functioning of the kingdom.

Lord Commander of the Kingsguard (Albert Eltham): Oversees the most elite and trusted knights of the realm, ensuring the king’s safety and serving as his bodyguard. Master of Coin (Augris Sable): Manages the kingdom's finances, taxation, and trade policies, thus having a significant impact on the economy. Master of Laws (Declan Leavary): Ensures the fairness and consistency of the legal system, overseeing the enforcement of laws and judging major cases. Master of Whisperers (Glenn the Jarman): Handles intelligence and espionage, ensuring the kingdom is well-informed about potential threats and opportunities.

The Hand of the King and the Small Council are thus not merely ceremonial positions but active players in the political and administrative landscape of the Seven Kingdoms. Their roles are crucial in maintaining stability, ensuring the kingdom’s prosperity, and steering it through challenging times. By understanding their functions, we can appreciate the complexity and importance of advisory structures in any rule.

Conclusion

The roles of the Hand of the King and the Small Council in the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros are pivotal to the functioning of the monarchy and the well-being of the realm. Through a detailed exploration of these key figures, this article has shed light on the intricate advisory system that underpins political governance in George R.R. Martin’s sprawling world. Whether navigating the treacherous pathways of court politics or overseeing the kingdom’s economic and legal frameworks, the Hand of the King and the Small Council are the backbone of the Seven Kingdoms’ governance, each advisor bringing their own expertise and influence to the table.