Arya Stark's Future: Marriage in Game of Thrones and A Song of Ice and Fire

The character of Arya Stark, often seen as a fierce wanderer and a survivor, has many admirers who wonder about her future. A popular question surrounds whether Arya Stark will marry in either the show Game of Thrones or the books A Song of Ice and Fire. Let's delve into the various scenarios and opinions about Arya's potential marriage.

No Marriage in the Show

In Game of Thrones, Arya Stark does not end up marrying anyone who is truly good for her. In the show, her connection with Gendry remains a significant part of her story. Gendry, a blacksmith who becomes her friend, is the subject of a romantic arc. Despite knowing everything about him, Arya does her best to suppress her feelings. When Gendry proposes in season 8, Arya turns him down, leaving the situation ambiguous and open to interpretation.

Early Betrothals in the Books

In the books, things get a bit more complicated. In A Song of Ice and Fire, Arya is also betrothed to Elmar Frey, though this contract remains unfulfilled. The conflict between her character and marriage comes to the forefront when it is hinted that her and Gendry may have a future. However, the hint is ambiguous and barely exists in the narrative. These hints and sues raise questions and curiosity among fans of the series.

The Impostor and a Missed Marriage

The plot thickens when an impostor named Jeyne Poole, who is actually Sansa Stark's best friend, appears on the scene. When Eddard Stark is arrested, Cersei Lannister removes Jeyne from Sansa's company as her mourning upsets Sansa. Later, Jeyne is sent to the Boltons by the Lannisters, presumably married to Ramsay Bolton, to strengthen their claim to Winterfell and the North.

In stark contrast, the real Arya, after being with the Hound initially, travels to Braavos. The marriage of the impostor Arya to Ramsay Bolton reaches Jon Snow at the Wall, leading him to break his vows to the Nightswatch to attempt a rescue mission.

Analysis and Opinions

Overall, it is evident that Arya Stark is not meant to end her journey in her current marriageable state. She is a character too complex and resilient to be tied down to one person. In both the show and the books, it seems that Arya is more interested in her journey and survival than settling down. Gendry and even Hot Pie are respectively mentioned as possible companions in her adventures, further emphasizing her independence and autonomy.

Sources like fan forums, extensive analyses, and direct in-text clues from the author, George R.R. Martin, suggest that Arya is likely to remain unmarried. She might continue her journey as a wanderer and survivor, or perhaps forge new bonds with those who accompany her on her path. This ambiguity and her ability to forge meaningful relationships, even if not traditional marriages, make her character all the more intriguing and formidable in the world of Westeros.