Game of Thrones Quotes by the Hound: Insights into His Ruthless Yet Relatable Character

Among the many compelling and tragic characters in Game of Thrones, there's one who stands out in his raw and direct way of speaking and thinking: Sandor Clegane, also known as the Hound. This article delves into some notable quotes by the Hound, exploring the complexities of his character and his philosophy on life, death, and survival.

Dead Rats Don't Squeak

In season 3, episode 9, when the Hound (Sandor Clegane) and Arya Stark are traveling together and help a man with a broken spoke on his cart, the Hound prepares to end the man's life. Arya stops him, saying, 'He's not gonna rat on us.' The Hound then quips, 'Dead rats don't squeak,' capturing his pragmatic and pragmatic worldview. These few words encapsulate the Hound's perspective on the world, where survival is the ultimate goal, and failing to adapt often leads to death.

A Battle of Wills

Perhaps one of the most memorable exchanges between the Hound and Arya occurs in season 2, episode 9. As they run out into the beach to face Stannis' army for the first time, the Hound utters his iconic line, 'If any man here dies with a clean sword, I'll rape his fucking corpse!' This quote is often cited as one of the most chilling and impactful lines in the series. It both terrifies and fascinates viewers, adding layers to the Hound's character.

The Mark of a Combative Nature

Arya's undying quest for vengeance is a relentless one. In a particularly dramatic scene, she finds her sword Needle stolen and taken to Harrenhal. The Hound, in his derisive tone, taunts her for naming her sword, saying, 'Needle, of course you named your sword.' This interaction showcases the Hound's ability to highlight the dark sides of both Arya and her quest, as well as his own ruthless nature.

Protection and Survival

In a poignant moment, the Hound offers his protection to Sansa Stark, saying, 'I could take you with me. Take you to Winterfell. I'll keep you safe. You want to go home.' However, Sansa declines, opting to stay in the dangers of King's Landing. Here, the Hound's pragmatic outlook on life comes into play, as he sees the world as built by killers and expects Sansa to face that reality.

Fear and the Truth Behind It

The Hound's direct and often brutal honesty is perhaps best exemplified by his lines in season 6, episode 8. When discussing fear, he states, 'Any man dies with a clean sword I'll rape his fucking corpse! You're almost there and you're afraid you won't make it. The closer you get, the worse the fear gets. No point in trying to hide behind that face. I know fear when I see it. Seen it a lot.' These words are not only terrifying, but they provide insight into the Hound's own fears and the journey he has undertaken to survive.

Conclusion

The Hound's character is a complex blend of brutality and humanity. These quotes from Game of Thrones not only highlight his philosophical outlook on life, but also his undying pursuit of survival. From his cynical worldview to his pragmatic approach to danger, the Hound remains a truly compelling and memorable character in the show.

While many remember the Hound for his brutal acts and cold-hearted nature, it's these insightful quotes that truly reveal the depth and complexity of his character. In a world filled with war and violence, the Hound's presence is a stark reminder of the raw, unfiltered reality that often lies beneath the surface of even the most idealistic of ideals.