Game of Thrones begins....

[Crazy_Ivan80]

are you asking if there is an historical example of a person who because of his position of power is allowed to commit acts of utter horrific sadism? think on this, if you would

Sure. I can think of plenty of awful people. But I can't think of that many people who were evil towards their own subjects for the LOLZ YAY.

There aren't many kings (and rulers of nations) like this, but I would be surprised if this was that rare among local tyrants (the equivalent of counts and barons in CK2) who had absolute authority over their subjects. In fact, I can't think of a single reason why a petty lord could not be a psychopath.

would be a bad investment policy. No subjects, no income.

[Martinus]

would be a bad investment policy. No subjects, no income.

So what? A lot of people do not act in their long term best interest. If heirs to vast capitalist fortunes can squander them away, I don't see why heirs to feudal holdings can't.

Incidentally, another example of a sadist psychopath baron I just thought of is Gilles de Rais.

[Faeelin]

The only example I can think of is Gilles. The Bastard of Orkney was a capricious ruler who levied high taxes. Ramsay fucking hunts women he rapes and then turns them into belts, and everyone's reaction is "Oh better not piss him off!"

[Valmy]

The only example I can think of is Gilles. The Bastard of Orkney was a capricious ruler who levied high taxes. Ramsay fucking hunts women he rapes and then turns them into belts, and everyone's reaction is "Oh better not piss him off!"

Obviously he is a bit extreme

[Josquius]

Ramsay is only in power amidst an anarchic situation though. How long has he had his position? A year at most maybe? A few months it feels more like. I'd think even a real world monster could get a good few months of carnage before his lord took notice.

Being a dick and killing peasants is bad business- true. But noble titles were inherited. To become the first of your family to be a noble you had to be rather good at whatever it is you do but after that all you have to do is be born the eldest son to noble parents. Not exactly selecting for the best business sense there.

[The Larch]

Already confirmed that the 3rd season will only cover the 1st half of Storm of Swords.

[The Larch]

In other news, here's the theme song, as performed by the actors that play the Stark kids:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=REasBBiJm00

[Valmy]

Ramsay is only in power amidst an anarchic situation though.

Yeah he only has his position because of his father and the chaotic position.  And even then people are hardly inspired by his leadership.

[Tamas]

He is the only ruler and person of power in the middle of a severly war-torn arid wasteland, of course he gets to do what he wishes.

Besides, he will soon be swept aside by Zombie Jon

[Viking]

Elizabeth Bathory?

[Razgovory]

Already confirmed that the 3rd season will only cover the 1st half of Storm of Swords.

Ah, so that's how they plan to deal with Martin being so slow.

[Viking]

Already confirmed that the 3rd season will only cover the 1st half of Storm of Swords.

Ah, so that's how they plan to deal with Martin being so slow.

Just wait until they split A Feast for Crows and A Dance with Dragons.

[Solmyr]

Elizabeth Bathory?

Not to mention Vlad Dracula.

[Lettow77]

Incidentally, another example of a sadist psychopath baron I just thought of is Gilles de Rais.

Did someone mention..Bluebeard the great?
 

[Faeelin]

Elizabeth Bathory?

Not to mention Vlad Dracula.

Isn't Vlad actully fairly well respected in Romania?