City Watch: The Unsung Heroes Of Game Of Thrones

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The world of Game of Thrones is vast and complex, filled with a multitude of characters, each with their own unique personalities, motivations, and backstories. While many fans focus on the noble families and their struggles for power, there is another group of characters that play a crucial role in the world of Westeros: the City Watch.

The City Watch, also known as the Gold Cloaks, are the law enforcement and military force of King's Landing, the capital city of the Seven Kingdoms. They are responsible for maintaining order, protecting the city and its inhabitants, and carrying out the will of the ruling monarch. Despite their importance, the City Watch often take a backseat to the more glamorous and powerful characters in the show. However, their role is crucial to the functioning of the city and the kingdom as a whole.

Origins and History of the City Watch

The City Watch was founded by King Maegor the Cruel, who wanted to create a loyal and elite force to serve as his personal bodyguards. Over time, the City Watch grew in size and scope, becoming responsible for policing the city and maintaining order. Despite their origins as the king's personal bodyguards, the City Watch has a long history of corruption and abuse of power. Many City Watchmen are known to be bribe-takers and are often more interested in lining their own pockets than in serving the city or the king.

Structure and Organization of the City Watch

The City Watch is led by the Commander of the City Watch, who is appointed by the king. The Commander is responsible for overseeing the entire organization and making key decisions about its operations. Below the Commander are the Captains, who are responsible for leading the individual units of the City Watch. The City Watch is divided into several units, each with its own specific responsibilities and areas of expertise.

Some of the most notable units include:

• The Gold Cloaks: These are the elite soldiers of the City Watch, responsible for guarding the king and the Red Keep.
• The Night Watch: These are the soldiers who guard the city walls and gates at night.
• The Watch of the Kingsguard: These are the soldiers who guard the kingsguard and the royal family.

The Role of the City Watch in the War of the Five Kings

During the War of the Five Kings, the City Watch played a crucial role in maintaining order in King's Landing. Despite their loyalty to King Joffrey, many members of the City Watch were sympathetic to the cause of the Starks and the Lannisters. This created tension within the organization, as some members were more loyal to their own families and houses than to the king.

The City Watch also played a key role in the Battle of the Blackwater Bay, where they fought against Stannis Baratheon's forces. Despite being outnumbered, the City Watch was able to hold off the enemy and protect the city.

The City Watch in the Later Seasons

In the later seasons of the show, the City Watch continues to play an important role in the story. After the death of King Joffrey, the City Watch is instrumental in maintaining order in the city and protecting the new king, Tommen. They also play a key role in the Great Pit of Daznak, where they fight against the Sons of the Harpy.

Despite their bravery and loyalty, the City Watch is ultimately unable to prevent the destruction of King's Landing by Daenerys Targaryen and her dragon, Drogon.

Notable Members of the City Watch

Some of the most notable members of the City Watch include:

• Janos Slynt: A corrupt and incompetent Commander of the City Watch, who is eventually executed for his crimes.
• Tyrion Lannister: A former Commander of the City Watch, who is known for his bravery and loyalty.
• Bronn: A sellsword who joins the City Watch and becomes a key ally to Tyrion.
• Podrick Payne: A young member of the City Watch, who becomes a squire to Brienne of Tarth.

Legacy of the City Watch

The City Watch may not be the most glamorous or powerful organization in the world of Game of Thrones, but they play a crucial role in maintaining order and protecting the city and its inhabitants. Despite their flaws and corruption, the City Watch is a testament to the complexity and nuance of the world of Westeros.

In the end, the City Watch is a reminder that even the most unsung heroes can make a difference in the world.