Five Times Tyrion Was Awesome In Game of Thrones

Tyrion Lannister excels at stealing the scene whether it's in the books or on the screen. He's one of the most intelligent characters we've met in Westeros (maybe the smartest), and he is a constant source of quips, general knowledge, and he's skilled at knowing just what to say to and about the worst of human behavior. He's developed his mind to make up for his stature and all that he has to put up with from the world at large because of it.

“A mind needs books as a sword needs a whetstone, if it is to keep its edge.” 

I could make a list a mile long of all the times he's been amazing in the series - I could do that just with his quotes - but there's only so much room on the Internet, so I'll just keep it to five. 

Warning: spoilers for seasons one and two from here on out. 

"I am a vile man, I confess it. My crimes and sins are beyond counting."

When he confessed his crimes to Lysa Arryn and outsmarted her by asking for a fight and using her own rules for trial against her. He shows off his cleverness and his ability to make any situation humorous - even considering his life was on the line and he was dealing with a crazy individual. I also like that this is where his friendship with Bronn started.

"I have a tender spot in my heart for cripples, bastards and broken things."

When he designs a special saddle for Bran so that the boy can ride again. It's a pity that he's met with suspicion by Robb, but Tyrion really just wanted to help - partially because he's who he is and also because he suspected his sister and brother were involved with Bran's injury. It was touching and revealed his compassionate side.

"Those are brave men knocking at our door. Let's go kill them!" 

His epic speech / pep talk during the Battle at Blackwater can't be overlooked. I can't imagine that Tyrion ever wanted to be thrust into battle except maybe to try to gain the approval of Tywin but alas, he ended up in the middle of things anyways. It might not be the speech that someone like Jaime or his father would give, but it sufficed for the soldiers and the viewers LOVED it.

"I intend to serve as Hand of the King until my father returns from the war. And seeing as you betrayed the last Hand of the King, well, I just wouldn't feel safe with you lurking about."

I love the scene when Tyrion arrives in King's Landing and just strolls into the Small Council meeting like it's the most normal thing in the world. I might like Cersei's reaction to her little brother's appearance even more. It was clear in this moment that Tyrion was in his element and was going to be perfectly fine messing with the politics and treachery of the capital.

"Joffrey: You can't talk to me like that. The king can do as he likes! 

Tyrion: The mad king did as he like. Has your uncle Jaime ever told you what happened to him? 

Meryn Trant: No one threatens his grace in the presence of the Kingsguard! 

Tyrion : I'm not threatening the king, Ser, I'm educating my nephew. 

Tyrion : Bronn, the next time the Ser Meryn speaks, kill him. 

Tyrion: THAT was a threat. See the difference?"

I'm cheating now. Every time Tyrion sets Joffrey in his place is fantastic, and yeah, it's even better if the talking-to is accompanied by a slap or two. As Tyrion says, Joffrey is a vicious, idiot king. He's constantly trying to instill manners, lead by example, and I very much admire that he is not afraid of Joffrey. Even Cersei is cautions around her unpredictable kid, but Tyrion doesn't hesitate to knock him around. And I adore him for it.

I have nothing but gold stars for Peter Dinklage. He embodies the character to a crazy impressive degree.

What are some of your favorite Tyrion moments and lines?