6. Confronting Cersei
Poor Ned, poor poor, Ned. Hes so stupid they turned him into a meme. This is arguably this biggest mistake, confronting Cersei and admitting that he knows the truth about her and Jaime. His plan, of course, back fires after Roberts death, which in turn worsens the relationship between the Starks and the Lannisters. It is one event out of many that leads to Neds tragic death. As I said before, the game is played on multiple levels. Throughout the first season we see the game as its played mostly on Neds level. He doesnt understand it, and seems to think hes uncovering a major conspiracy that goes unknown, when in reality the truth isnt as well hidden as it appears. Multiple parties know it, theyve just chosen not to go forth with the information because theyre aware of the possible repercussions. Ned should have just just kept his mouth shut, amongst other things, and would have maybe gotten away with his life instead. Robert would have died still and Ned might try to play ball with his piece of paper again, but at least hes not denouncing Joffreys right to the throne and could probably get away with his life once news of Tyrions freedom reaches Kings Landing. If he got back to Winterfell, he could gather the North and support Stannis (the Mannis). Of course, this would all require Ned to undo a great many mistakes, good luck with that.