The Burden of Command

A Dance with Dragons

Jon Snow grapples with the weight of leadership, making difficult decisions that test his honor and vows.

increasing

Bearing strength in each event

decreasing

The Oath

The Oath The Words Jon recites the Night's Watch oath. He is the shield that guards the realms of men. The Conflict Jon must balance his duty to the Watch with his personal feelings. He often struggles. The Responsibility As Lord Commander, every decision affects many lives. Jon feels the weight.

The Offer from Stannis The Offer from Stannis from "A Dance with Dragons". The Offer from Stannis The Legitimization Stannis offers to make Jon Lord of Winterfell if he supports him. Jon refuses.

The Offer from Stannis from "A Dance with Dragons". The Offer from Stannis The Legitimization Stannis offers to make Jon Lord of Winterfell if he supports him. Jon refuses.

The Offer from Stannis The Legitimization Stannis offers to make Jon Lord of Winterfell if he supports him. Jon refuses. The Temptation Jon is tempted by the offer of Winterfell and a name. He chooses his vows instead. The Consequence Jon's refusal strains his relationship with Stannis but keeps his honor intact.

The Execution of Janos Slynt The Execution of Janos Slynt from "A Dance with Dragons". The Execution of Janos Slynt The Defiance Janos Slynt refuses Jon's order. Jon must assert his authority. The Decision Jon decides to execute Slynt.

The Execution of Janos Slynt from "A Dance with Dragons". The Execution of Janos Slynt The Defiance Janos Slynt refuses Jon's order. Jon must assert his authority. The Decision Jon decides to execute Slynt.

The Execution of Janos Slynt The Defiance Janos Slynt refuses Jon's order. Jon must assert his authority. The Decision Jon decides to execute Slynt. He does it himself, showing he is not afraid to use force. The Lesson Jon learns that leadership requires harsh decisions. He must be willing to kill to maintain order.

The Wildling Alliance The Wildling Alliance from "A Dance with Dragons". The Wildling Alliance The Choice Jon chooses to ally with the wildlings, breaking centuries of tradition. He believes it is necessary.

The Wildling Alliance from "A Dance with Dragons". The Wildling Alliance The Choice Jon chooses to ally with the wildlings, breaking centuries of tradition. He believes it is necessary.

The Wildling Alliance The Choice Jon chooses to ally with the wildlings, breaking centuries of tradition. He believes it is necessary. The Opposition Many brothers see this as treason. Jon is isolated. The Price Jon's decision leads to his assassination. He pays the ultimate price for his principles.

early in the book

midway through the book

late in the book