Introduction
In the cutthroat world of Game of Thrones, honor often feels like a weakness, a quaint relic from a bygone era. Betrayal, ambition, and sheer ruthlessness are the currencies that buy power and survival. Yet, in this morally ambiguous landscape, one knight stood as a beacon of unwavering integrity: Ser Barristan Selmy, known to many as Barristan the Bold. While others schemed and murdered their way to the top, Selmy clung fiercely to the traditional knightly code, a testament to a time when honor meant everything. This commitment, while seemingly out of place in Westeros, ultimately enriched the narrative and profoundly influenced those around him, especially Daenerys Targaryen. Ser Barristan Selmy represents a classic knightly ideal that both contrasts with and enriches the morally complex world of Game of Thrones.
Who He Was: A Brief History
Born into the noble House Selmy, Barristan displayed an exceptional aptitude for combat from a young age. He earned his knighthood at the remarkably young age of sixteen, a testament to his skill and bravery. His martial prowess quickly became legendary throughout Westeros. He distinguished himself in numerous battles and tournaments, earning the moniker “Barristan the Bold” for his courage and ferocity on the battlefield. He served valiantly under various kings, earning the respect and admiration of both his allies and enemies. Selmy wasn’t merely a skilled warrior; he was a devoted protector, a steadfast ally, and a man whose word was his bond. These qualities made him one of the most formidable and respected figures in Westeros.
The Knightly Code in a Dark Age
At the heart of Barristan Selmy’s character lies his adherence to the traditional knightly code of chivalry. This code, often romanticized in songs and stories, encompasses virtues such as honor, loyalty, courage, justice, and the unwavering protection of the weak and innocent. In a world as cynical as Westeros, these principles often seem naive and even foolish. Characters routinely betray their oaths, exploit the vulnerable, and prioritize personal gain over the greater good.
Consider Jaime Lannister, the Kingslayer. While he possesses undeniable skill as a swordsman, Jaime’s actions, including his oath-breaking assassination of the Mad King, stand in stark contrast to Selmy’s unwavering loyalty. Similarly, Sandor Clegane, the Hound, while possessing a certain rough-hewn sense of justice, is ultimately driven by survival and a deep-seated cynicism born from his own traumatic experiences. These characters represent the pragmatism and moral compromises that are often necessary to survive in the harsh realities of Westeros.
Barristan Selmy, however, refuses to compromise his principles. He embodies the knightly ideal in its purest form. He believes in upholding his vows, protecting the innocent, and serving justice, even when doing so puts him at odds with powerful figures or places him in grave danger. His commitment to this code is not simply a matter of blind obedience; it is a deeply held conviction that shapes his every action and decision.
Serving the Targaryens: Duty and Remorse
A significant chapter in Barristan Selmy’s life is his service to House Targaryen. He served as Lord Commander of the Kingsguard for Aerys II Targaryen, the Mad King. While fiercely loyal to his king, Selmy harbored deep remorse over failing to prevent Aerys’s descent into madness and the atrocities he committed during Robert’s Rebellion. This failure weighed heavily on him, fueling his desire to redeem himself and uphold the honor of the Kingsguard.
Following Robert Baratheon’s victory, Selmy was initially pardoned and allowed to continue serving as a knight in the Kingsguard. However, his age and perceived loyalty to the Targaryens eventually led to his dismissal by Joffrey Baratheon. This act, while humiliating, ultimately freed Selmy to pursue a new path, one where he could truly live according to his code of honor without compromise. Feeling a renewed sense of duty and driven by a desire to atone for the past, he sought out Daenerys Targaryen, the last known scion of House Targaryen, across the Narrow Sea.
Mentor and Protector: Selmy’s Influence on Daenerys
Barristan Selmy’s arrival in Daenerys Targaryen’s camp marked a turning point in her journey. He pledged his sword to her, not out of ambition or self-interest, but out of a genuine belief in her potential to be a just and benevolent ruler. He became more than just a protector; he became a mentor, a confidant, and a voice of reason in a court often swayed by emotion and impulsive decisions.
Selmy’s influence on Daenerys was profound. He guided her in matters of leadership, urging her to temper her ambition with compassion and justice. He shared his knowledge of Westerosi history and customs, providing her with valuable insights into the people she hoped to rule. He constantly reminded her of the importance of upholding her ideals, even when faced with difficult choices.
One notable example of his influence is seen in Daenerys’s approach to justice in Meereen. While initially inclined to respond to injustice with fire and blood, Selmy convinced her to establish a more just and equitable system of law. He helped her understand the importance of due process and the need to protect the innocent, even when they are accused of crimes. This guidance shaped Daenerys’s reign and ultimately influenced her vision for a better world. Ser Barristan’s calm presence balanced Dany’s fiery persona.
The Cost of Honor: Selmy’s Sacrifice
Despite his wisdom and experience, Barristan Selmy’s unwavering commitment to honor ultimately led to his demise. While serving as Daenerys’s Hand in Meereen, he was killed during a battle with the Sons of the Harpy. His death was a devastating blow to Daenerys, leaving her grief-stricken and questioning her own judgment. She had come to rely on Selmy’s counsel and considered him one of her most trusted advisors.
Selmy’s death served as a harsh reminder of the brutal realities of Game of Thrones. Even the most virtuous and skilled warriors are not immune to the dangers of war and political intrigue. His sacrifice highlighted the cost of upholding one’s principles in a world where honor is often a liability. Ser Barristan’s loss deeply impacted Daenerys, forcing her to reconsider her strategies and alliances in the face of growing threats.
A Lasting Legacy: The Knightly Ideal Endures
Despite his tragic end, Barristan Selmy’s legacy endures. He represents a timeless ideal of honor, courage, and selflessness that resonates with audiences even in the darkest of times. He served as a reminder that even in a world consumed by greed and violence, there is still room for compassion and integrity.
Did he ultimately succeed in his mission to guide Daenerys? While he was not there to see her claim the Iron Throne, his influence undoubtedly shaped her character and her aspirations. He instilled in her a sense of justice and a desire to create a better world, qualities that she carried with her throughout her reign.
Selmy’s character ultimately begs the question: What is the role of honor in a brutal world? His life serves as a testament to the power of integrity and the importance of upholding one’s principles, even in the face of adversity. He demonstrated that even in the morally grey world of Westeros, it is possible to remain true to oneself and to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ser Barristan Selmy stands as a powerful symbol of the knightly ideal in the cynical world of Game of Thrones. His unwavering commitment to honor, loyalty, and justice contrasted sharply with the actions of many other characters, highlighting the moral complexities of Westeros. His influence on Daenerys Targaryen was profound, shaping her into a more compassionate and just ruler. Though he ultimately met a tragic end, his legacy of honor and selflessness endures, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, there is still hope for those who dare to uphold their principles. He was, in the end, a true knight in a world desperately in need of them.
