Introduction to Forgotten Characters in 'A Song of Ice and Fire'

The A Song of Ice and Fire series, created by George R.R. Martin, is rich with unforgettable characters and complex storylines. However, some characters unfortunately fade into the background, often overlooked by readers. This article delves into the lesser-known but significant contributions of a few such characters, including Samwell Tarly and Meera Reed.

Samwell Tarly: A Severely Underrated Hero

Among the many forgotten characters in the A Song of Ice and Fire series, Samwell Tarly stands out as a severely underrated figure. Often seen as a seemingly timid character at first glance, Samwell's intelligence and knowledge are vastly underestimated. In the battlefield, he considers himself a coward, but his true expertise lies in his extensive reading and the secrets he has learned. His vast reservoir of knowledge proves crucial to the advancement of the entire plot, influencing key decisions and revelations.

For instance, Samwell's knowledge about dragonglass, a material crucial in combating the White Walkers, goes unnoticed until the dire circumstances of the world demand it. His inquiries about the identity of Jon Snow, originally Bolton's bastard, also play a vital role in revealing Jon's true lineage. It is clear that Samwell's contributions to the storyline are immense and essential, yet remain often overlooked.

George R.R. Martin's Literary Parallel with Samwell Tarly

George R.R. Martin, the master of the A Song of Ice and Fire series, has highlighted a personal connection with Samwell Tarly. Both characters share a common trait: a passion for reading. Martin himself is known for his extensive reading habits and knowledge. This connection allows us to see Samwell as a personal reflection of the author's own character, emphasizing the importance of knowledge and reading in designing a rich and detailed narrative.

Meera Reed: Forgotten but Purposeful

Another character who is often forgotten in the grand tapestry of the A Song of Ice and Fire series is Meera Reed. Despite her brief screen time in the Game of Thrones TV series, Meera's impact on the story is profound and significant. A kind-hearted, selfless, and resourceful character, Meera played a vital role in Bran Stark's quest to find the Three-Eyed Raven. Her curly-haired, gentle appearance belies the strength and purposefulness of her character.

Meera's presence with her brother Jojen provided a meditation on the innocence of children amidst a world of darkness and despair. Her psychic abilities and the wayward journey she and Jojen took with Bran served as a poignant reminder of the value of their unique knowledge and experiences. However, her abrupt departure from the story raises questions about the narrative choices made by the authors. Was her presence a mere plot device, or was she intended to fade into the background for a reason?

The Ongoing Debate: Was Meera Reed Forgotten?

The question of whether Meera Reed was intentionally forgotten or just a minor character that required a swift exit is a heated topic among A Song of Ice and Fire enthusiasts. There are several theories on why her storyline ends so abruptly after the three-seasons-long wilderness journey. Some argue that her absence was due to the limited time frame of the TV series, while others believe that the writers, in their eagerness to conclude the main storyline, disregarded her character's importance.

Conclusion: Remembering Forgotten Characters

Characters like Samwell Tarly and Meera Reed are often overshadowed by the more prominent figures in the A Song of Ice and Fire world. However, their contributions are substantial and meaningful. By understanding and remembering these often-forgotten characters, fans can gain a deeper appreciation for the richness and complexity of George R.R. Martin's world. As readers, it is essential to acknowledge and appreciate the significant roles characters like Samwell and Meera played in advancing the narrative.

Whether these characters were intentionally forgotten or simply written out to make room for the main storyline, their absence leaves a palpable void in the narrative. It is crucial to keep them in mind, as they serve as a testament to the depth and intricacy of Martin's storytelling. Through a more comprehensive understanding of these characters, readers can enhance their overall enjoyment of the A Song of Ice and Fire world.