Why did Slavery Not Take Root in Westeros the Way It Did in Essos?

George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series presents a rich tapestry of cultures and societies, both in Westeros and Essos. One recurring theme that stands out is the treatment of labor and the institution of slavery. While slavery thrives in Essos, resembling ancient empires and city-states, it is virtually non-existent in Westeros, where feudalism and serfdom dominate. This article explores the reasons behind this dichotomy and the underlying historical and cultural factors that contribute to the prevalence of different forms of labor.

The Contrast Between Westeros and Essos

In Westeros, the concept of slavery is almost non-existent. Instead, a feudal-like system exists where peasants work as serfs under the control of their lords. This system bears a striking resemblance to medieval Europe, where the common labor system was serfdom rather than outright slavery. The Andalrsquo;s and First Men cultures of Westeros reflect medieval European societies, and these societies did not commonly practice slavery in the classical sense.

The Rise of Serfdom in Westeros

Slavery in Westeros can accurately be described as serfdom. Serfs in this context are completely controlled by their lords or ladies, bound to work on their lands as a form of debt bondage or as a result of necessity. This system is not fundamentally different from classical slavery, as both slave and serf lifestyles were characterized by exploitation and abuse. Tyrion Lannister, for instance, describes the smallfolk as living lives akin to slaves. The salt wives of the Iron Islands, for example, are enslaved women who are violently treated in much the same way a slave would be.

The Decline of Slavery in Medieval Europe

The decline of slavery in medieval Europe, and consequently in Westeros, can be attributed to several factors:

Lack of Economic Necessity: Medieval European societies had a reliance on serfdom that was often economically more advantageous than outright slavery. Serfs could be held to the land, providing a stable labor force that could be easily controlled and managed. Ethical and Religious Influences: The Christian church played a significant role in the decline of slavery. The concept of a single God and the idea of the soul surviving after death became stronger in Europe, leading to a growing moral opposition to the commodification of human beings. The Faith of the Seven in Westeros draws parallels to Christianity, suggesting that slavery was similarly deemed immoral and was thus outlawed. Transition to Feudalism: Feudalism provided a more palatable and legally sustainable alternative to slavery in terms of labor management. Lords and their serfs had a formalized social hierarchy that was easier to maintain and control than the chaos of slave markets.

The Pervasive Presence of Slavery in Essos

In contrast, Essos is much less affected by the Faith of the Seven and similar religious and ethical frameworks. The practice of slavery is widespread and deeply integrated into the economic and social fabric of Essos. Cities like Slaver's Bay are the heart of the slave trade, with cities such as Astapor, Yunkai, and Meereen thriving on the backs of their slaves. Slaves in Essos produce goods like the Unsullied and the Great Pyramid prostitutes. Cities like Lys, Volantis, and Pentos also have flourishing slave markets.

The prevalence of slavery in Essos reflects historical realities of ancient civilizations, where labor was often obtained through war, conquest, and capture. The slave trade in Essos mirrors real-world historical trade in slaves, particularly the Arab slave trade. This trade in human beings was characterized by its vast scale and brutal conditions, making it deeply unsettling.

Conclusion

Westeros and Essos reflect contrasting historical and cultural scenarios, with labor systems that, while fundamentally different, share similar exploitative qualities. Slavery in Essos flourishes due to the absence of strong ethical and religious constraints, while in Westeros, serfdom is a more palatable and sustainable system that aligns with medieval European norms.

Both systems, while differing in form, ultimately reflect the grim realities of human exploitation and the complex ways in which societies manage and justify this exploitation. The dichotomy between Westeros and Essos serves to highlight the nuanced ways in which different societies have dealt with the issue of slavery over time.