Barristan Selmy, also known as Barristan the Bold, is one of the most iconic and beloved characters in the Game of Thrones series. As a seasoned knight, a former member of the Kingsguard, and a trusted advisor to Daenerys Targaryen, Barristan's character is multifaceted and complex. In this article, we will delve into the character analysis of Barristan Selmy, exploring his backstory, motivations, and actions throughout the series.
Barristan's Backstory
Barristan Selmy was born into House Selmy, a noble family from the Stormlands. He was trained in the art of combat from a young age and became a skilled knight. Barristan's impressive martial prowess and unwavering sense of duty earned him a spot in the Kingsguard, the elite group of warriors sworn to protect the Iron Throne.
As a member of the Kingsguard, Barristan served under King Aerys II Targaryen, also known as the Mad King. However, he was dismissed from the Kingsguard by the king himself after speaking out against Aerys' actions. This dismissal marked a turning point in Barristan's life, as he struggled to come to terms with his own sense of duty and loyalty.
Exile and Redemption
After being dismissed from the Kingsguard, Barristan went into exile, where he spent years trying to redeem himself. He eventually found his way to Meereen, where he pledged his loyalty to Daenerys Targaryen, the last living heir of House Targaryen. Barristan saw an opportunity to redeem himself by serving the trueborn heir to the Iron Throne.
Under Daenerys' rule, Barristan became a trusted advisor and a leader of her army. He played a crucial role in her conquest of Meereen and later became the Lord Commander of her Queensguard. Through his service to Daenerys, Barristan sought to make amends for his past failures and prove himself as a loyal and honorable knight.
Character Motivations
Barristan's motivations are driven by his sense of duty, loyalty, and honor. He is deeply committed to his code of chivalry and will go to great lengths to protect those he has sworn to serve. As a member of the Kingsguard, Barristan took a vow to defend the realm, and he sees his service to Daenerys as a way to fulfill that vow.
Moreover, Barristan is motivated by a desire for redemption. His dismissal from the Kingsguard and his years in exile have left emotional scars, and he seeks to prove himself as a worthy knight. Through his actions, Barristan aims to restore his honor and prove his loyalty to those he cares about.
Loyalty and Duty
Barristan's sense of loyalty and duty is unwavering. He is willing to risk his own life to protect those he has sworn to serve. When Daenerys disappears during her ride on Drogon, Barristan takes charge of Meereen, determined to protect the city and its people. Even when faced with the treacherous Sons of the Harpy, Barristan remains steadfast in his duty, fighting bravely to defend the city.
Relationships with Other Characters
Barristan's relationships with other characters in the series are significant, particularly his bond with Daenerys Targaryen. As her trusted advisor and Lord Commander, Barristan is deeply devoted to Daenerys and sees her as the rightful ruler of the Seven Kingdoms.
Barristan's dynamic with Jorah Mormont is also notable. Initially, the two men have a strained relationship, with Jorah viewing Barristan as a rival for Daenerys' affections. However, as the series progresses, they develop a begrudging respect for each other, united in their loyalty to Daenerys.
Conflict and Tragedy
Barristan's storyline is marked by conflict and tragedy. His loyalty to Daenerys is tested when he discovers that Jorah has been spying on her. Torn between his duty to protect Daenerys and his sense of justice, Barristan is forced to confront Jorah, leading to a dramatic showdown.
Ultimately, Barristan meets a heroic end, fighting bravely against the Sons of the Harpy in the streets of Meereen. His death serves as a catalyst for Daenerys' decision to return to Meereen and reclaim her city.
Legacy and Impact
Barristan Selmy's legacy in the Game of Thrones series is significant. As a character, he embodies the ideals of chivalry and honor, serving as a role model for other characters. His unwavering loyalty to Daenerys and his willingness to risk his own life to protect her inspire others to follow in his footsteps.
Moreover, Barristan's backstory and motivations serve as a reminder of the complexities of the human experience. His struggles with duty, loyalty, and redemption make him a relatable and sympathetic character, and his ultimate sacrifice serves as a testament to the power of courage and honor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Barristan Selmy is a beloved and complex character in the Game of Thrones series. His backstory, motivations, and relationships with other characters make him a rich and nuanced personality. Through his actions and ultimate sacrifice, Barristan embodies the ideals of chivalry and honor, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of Westeros.
We invite you to share your thoughts on Barristan Selmy's character analysis. How do you think his backstory and motivations influenced his actions throughout the series? What do you believe is the significance of his legacy in the Game of Thrones universe?
What is Barristan Selmy's most notable trait?
+Barristan's most notable trait is his unwavering sense of duty and loyalty. He is deeply committed to his code of chivalry and will go to great lengths to protect those he has sworn to serve.
What is the significance of Barristan's backstory?
+Barristan's backstory is significant because it highlights his struggles with duty, loyalty, and redemption. His dismissal from the Kingsguard and his years in exile have left emotional scars, and his service to Daenerys is motivated by a desire to prove himself as a worthy knight.
What is the impact of Barristan's death on the series?
+Barristan's death serves as a catalyst for Daenerys' decision to return to Meereen and reclaim her city. His sacrifice also serves as a reminder of the power of courage and honor, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps.