Deepwood Motte: A Strategic Fortress in the Face of the Night King's Threat

In the tumultuous world of A Song of Ice and Fire, the strategic placement of castles and fortresses is of paramount importance. Deepwood Motte, the stronghold of House Glover in the treacherous north of Westeros, stands as a testament to the complex decision-making required in times of peril, particularly amidst the looming threat of the White Walkers.

Deepwood Motte, situated in the foothills of the eastern mountains, marks the northern borders of Winterfell, one of the heartlands of Westeros. Its strategic position is key to understanding why Lord Glover chose to remain there during the chaos of Season 8, when the White Walkers were amassing an army of the dead.

Strategic Position and Fortifications

Literary maps, such as the one from the A World of Ice and Fire app, make it clear that Deepwood Motte is strategically placed. It's only a short journey from Winterfell along the Kingsroad, yet it stands as a defensive bastion to the coast, offering a shield against the relentless advance of the army of the dead. Its location on the map also underscores the importance of maintaining control over this area, as it could serve as a vital staging ground for any counter-attack.

However, Deepwood Motte's fortifications fall far short of the imposing castles of the north. The walls surrounding most of the castle are wooden palisades, which are notoriously ineffective in defending against the power of the Night King. This was demonstrated in the books, where Asha Greyjoy managed to seize control of Deepwood Motte with a small force and held it until Stannis Baratheon, guided by Jon Snow, managed to regain it. In the show, the portrayal is more nuanced—while the entrance gates are indeed stone, the overall structure does not offer significant defensive advantages.

Lord Glover's Decision and Nobility

Lord Glover's decision to stay at Deepwood Motte reflects a deep sense of loyalty and a refusal to bend the knee to the Mad King's daughter, Daenerys Targaryen. His choice is a show of defiance, symbolizing the Glover family's commitment to their home and their people. Although Deepwood Motte is not an easily defended stronghold, Lord Glover's resolve speaks to a larger theme in the story: the importance of standing by one's convictions even when faced with overwhelming odds.

The journey from Last Hearth to Deepwood Motte, through the treacherous wolfswood, is a testament to the hardships and dangers faced by House Glover. The fact that the Night King wastes time and resources by targeting Deepwood Motte is a clear indication of how out of the way and strategically challenging it is to reach from his starting point. This decision also underscores the wisdom of Lord Glover's actions in staying put and not rushing to Winterfell, where his presence would have provided little additional support.

Conclusion

In the complex web of politics and power in A Song of Ice and Fire, Deepwood Motte stands as a landmark of strategic defense and noble resolve. Its location, fortifications, and the decision of Lord Glover to remain there offer valuable insights into the challenges faced by the north and the importance of strategic planning in the face of seemingly insurmountable threats.

While Deepwood Motte may not be an impregnable fortress, its strategic importance and the moral strength of Lord Glover's decision to stand his ground make it a pivotal element in the narrative of the show. Through the lens of Deepwood Motte, viewers can appreciate the complexities of the geopolitical landscape and the profound impact of individual choices in a world that seems to be on the brink of permanent change.