Brienne vs. Arya: Who Is the Better Swordsman in Game of Thrones?

In the world of Game of Thrones, two of the most formidable and skilled warriors are Brienne of Tarth and Arya Stark. While both are highly capable, it's often debated which one is the better swordsman. Both Brienne and Arya bring their unique strengths to the battlefield, and their prowess is showcased in various ways throughout the series. Let's delve into the characteristics and abilities of each warrior to determine who truly possesses the upper hand.

Brienne of Tarth: The Veteran Warrior

As a seasoned veteran, Brienne's combat experience is unparalleled. Born into the Stark family, she was raised to be a squire and eventually trained in the art of swordplay. Her martial abilities are highlighted by her impressive victory over Jamie Llyn Loras Tyrell and The Hound. Not only did she defeat these formidable opponents, but she also built an enormous mountain of zombie body parts under her feet during the Battle of the Wall against the white walkers. This remarkable feat demonstrates her exceptional fighting skills and unwavering determination.

Arya Stark: The Assassin and Water Dancer

Arya, on the other hand, is a skilled assassin who has undergone extensive training in the art of the Water Dancer, a deadly form of swordplay. This fighting style, which involves fluid and quick movements, is ideal for close-quarters combat and quick strikes. However, it is not suitable for large-scale battles or when facing fully armored opponents. While Arya has the potential to defeat both Jaime Lannister and The Hound in a straightforward sword fight, she would be more effective using her training in the Water Dancer style.

In the past, Arya demonstrated her assassin skills by using a quarter staff with dragon glass ends during the battle against the undead. This act shows her adaptability and willingness to utilize unconventional weapons when the situation demands it. Nevertheless, her training in the Water Dancer style is more geared towards elite assassination and non-traditional combat scenarios rather than conventional warfare.

Comparing the Swordsmen

When comparing Brienne and Arya, it's important to consider their different strengths in the context of various battle situations. Both warriors are formidable, but their approaches and tactics differ significantly. Brienne's combat experience and physical strength make her an exceptional choice for large-scale battles and against heavily armored opponents. Her victories over Jamie Lannister and The Hound are testaments to her skill and leadership on the battlefield.

Arya, while incredibly skilled in the Water Dancer style and a potent assassin, is not as well-suited for intense, prolonged combat against large groups of enemies. Her training is more focused on stealth, agility, and quick hits, making her better suited for small-scale, high-pressure situations.

In conclusion, it may be argued that both Brienne and Arya are exceptional warriors with unique strengths. While Brienne excels in large-scale battles and confrontations with heavily armored opponents, Arya shines in smaller-scale, high-intensity confrontations and assassination missions. Whether one is considered better than the other ultimately depends on the context of the battle and the specific combat scenario in which they are faced.