Unveiling the Best Kingsguard in Game of Thrones, Beyond Jaime Lannister

The greatest series to hit TV screens, Game of Thrones, portrays a world of political intrigues, family feuds, and unimaginable battles. Within this tumultuous universe, one position stands out ever so distinctly - the Kingsguard. The Kingsguard, sworn to protect the King, were not just any men dressed in golden armor. Each of them brought a unique blend of valor, duty, and skill to the table. This article takes a closer look at the contenders for the title of the best Kingsguard in Game of Thrones, excluding the legendary Jaime Lannister.

The Warrior Kingsguard: Barristan Selmy

First on the list is none other than Barristan Selmy, the Unsullied commander who served Aerys II Targaryen and subsequently Aegon Targaryen, the Mad King and his son. Known for his unwavering loyalty and combat skills, Barristan proved his worth time and again. He was one of the few who managed to combat the 'Mad King' with dignity, fighting for the honor of being a Kingsguard. His experience in battle was extensive, having fought in the slaver’s bay as a member of the Unsullied before joining the Kingsguard. Harridan, his warhorse, betrayed him, but his unshakable loyalty and valiant efforts in battle earned him respect and admiration. He later joined the Night’s Watch, only to return as a free man and a protector of King's Landing.

The Practiced Protector: Ser Gerold Hightower

Gerold Hightower, referred to as the Hand of the King, also serves as a formidable contender. While not as prominently featured as Barristan, his role as Hand of the King required the same unparalleled commitment and skill as any Kingsguard. His experience as a squire to Tygett and later as Hand of the King felt the pressures of governance and combat consistently. However, despite his skills, Gerold did not fulfill the primary duty of a Kingsguard, which is to protect the King himself. As Hand, he was more involved in governance and diplomatic relations, leaving his protector role incomplete.

The Scholar of the Seven Kingdoms: Serwyn of the Mirror Palace

Lesser known and not often mentioned in the narrative, Serwyn of the Mirror Palace serves as another warrior Kingsguard. Known for his scholarly pursuits and studies, Serwyn was a significant figure in the Targaryen court. He was a well-respected member of the Kingsguard, and his acumen in strategy and combat was integral to the defense of the Seven Kingdoms. However, his presence in the text is quite sparse, and thus, he does not get as much recognition.

The Protector of Princess Caytie

Another notable Kingsguard figure, Halder, also a contender for the title of the best Kingsguard, stood as the protector of Princess Caytie during Robert’s Rebellion. His unwavering dedication and devotion to Princess Caytie were unmatched, and the love and respect he earned from her were his ultimate achievement. Halder's sterling patience and devotion are a testament to his true nature as a Kingsguard. His story, however, is often overshadowed by the events of the liberation of King's Landing and Jaime Lannister's valor.

Conclusion: A Relic of Honor and Valor

Each of these individuals, whether they were frontline warriors like Barristan Selmy or intelligent protectors like Gerold Hightower, brought their own unique brand of honor, glory, and valor to their service as a Kingsguard. Yet, Jaime Lannister remains the most talked-about and celebrated for his staunch defense of the King and his personal reputation. However, to the unsuspecting lesser-known figures who guard the walls of King's Landing or the halls of the royal garden, the apocalypse remains just as dire and critical.

Key Takeaways

Best Practiced Protector: Barristan Selmy
Best Scholar: Serwyn of the Mirror Palace
Best Protectoress: Halder

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Want to explore more about the world of Westeros and the nuances of its characters? Dive into our comprehensive articles on Game of Thrones, including detailed character analyses and in-depth episode recaps. And remember, whether you're a fan of medieval fantasy or simply love a good story, there's always more to discover in the Seven Kingdoms.