Sansa

Sansa Stark is a fictional character in George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series and its television adaptation Game of Thrones. She is portrayed by Sophie Turner in the HBO series. Sansa is the eldest daughter of Eddard (Ned) Stark and Catelyn Stark, and the sister of Robb, Arya, Bran, and Rickon.

In the novels, Sansa is initially portrayed as idealistic and romance-minded, more comfortable with songs and courtly manners than with the dangers of political intrigue. Her life is shaped by her betrothal to Joffrey Baratheon, which draws her into the politics and peril of King’s Landing. Over time, her naivete gives way to a deeper awareness of court power, manipulation, and survival as she navigates the lethal dynamics of the royal court under Cersei Lannister’s influence.

In the television series, Sansa's arc is expanded. She endures captivity, forms strategic alliances with characters such as Petyr Baelish, and plays a crucial role in the North’s resurgence. She helps reclaim Winterfell, asserts Stark autonomy, and after the war is concluded, is declared Queen in the North, ruling an independent northern realm.

The character is widely recognized for her complex development from a sheltered, hopeful girl to a politically astute leader. Turner's portrayal of Sansa has been a focal point of critical discussion and has contributed to the character’s prominence in contemporary fantasy.