Execution of Eddard Stark
The beheading of Ned Stark before the Great Sept of Baelor.
The execution of Eddard Stark is a pivotal event in the developing conflict caused by the death of Robert Baratheon, paving the way for its transformation into a full-fledged civil war. After agreeing to Cersei's terms, Ned is taken to the yard before the Great Sept of Baelor to confess his treason publicly; Joffrey then dismisses the pleas for mercy, turns to Ser Ilyn Payne and demands Ned's head.
Quick Facts
- Type
- Execution
- Location
- Before the Great Sept of Baelor, King's Landing
- Ordered by
- King Joffrey Baratheon
- Executioner
- Ser Ilyn Payne, the King's Justice
Facts from the source article.
Background
While in the dungeons, Ned is visited by Varys, who informs him that Robb Stark has called the banners of House Stark to march on King's Landing, and that Sansa is still the Lannisters' hostage. Varys claims that Cersei has promised that if Ned confesses to his "treason" and orders Robb to stand down, he will be spared and sent to the Night's Watch; Ned reluctantly agrees after Varys points out that Sansa's life is at stake.
Present for the confession are Joffrey, Cersei, Sansa, Littlefinger, Varys, Pycelle, the High Septon, several Kingsguard and the King's Justice, Ser Ilyn Payne. Unbeknownst to all of them, save Ned, Arya is also present, standing on the pedestal of the statue of Baelor the Blessed.
Did You Know?
- Passing Yoren in the crowd, Ned says a single word to him, "Baelor", prompting Yoren to seize Arya and keep her from seeing her father's execution.
- Joffrey announced that his mother wished to let Eddard join the Night's Watch, then dismissed her and Sansa as soft-hearted.
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Elsewhere in Game of Thrones
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