Is Lady Brienne of Tarth a Knight? A Comprehensive Analysis

The age-old question of whether Lady Brienne of Tarth is a knight has been a topic of discussion among fans of the A Song of Ice and Fire series and the Game of Thrones television adaptation. The answer, however, depends on one's interpretation and the rules of the Seven Kingdoms.

Kingdom Rules and Knighthood

According to the established rules of knighthood in the Seven Kingdoms, a knight must:

Hold a Vigil in the sept devoted to the Seven Be anointed by a fellow knight

("A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, Season 8 Episode 2")

Season 8 and the Ceremonial Knighthood

Finally, in Season 8, Episode 2, "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms," Lady Brienne was formally knighted. This event marked a significant milestone in her character arc, recognizing her valor and dedication to the realm. Her knighthood was a well-deserved award for her numerous heroic quests and unwavering honor.

Commoner Perception

From the perspective of the small folk of Westeros, an armor-wearing warrior is often seen as a knight. This common perception is evident in the dialogue from Season 2. (A Knights of Seven Kingdoms, Season 2, Episode 21, where Hot Pie, Gendry, and Arya have a conversation about a knight.)

Arya, Hot Pie, and Gendry- "How'd you know he was a knight?"

Hot Pie's straightforward response illustrates the common belief: 'Because he's got armor on.'

Theoretical Knight Status

From a strict viewpoint, Lady Brienne has not officially been knighted yet. She has not held a Vigil at a sept and been anointed by another knight. Instead, she embodies the spirit of a knight through her actions, honor, and respect for chivalry.

Vigil in the Sept

Lady Brienne has not participated in a Vigil at a sept, a prerequisite for knighthood. A Vigil is a ceremony where a prospective knight dedicates their life to the Seven, the religion of the Seven Kingdoms.

Anointment by a Knight

An anointment is the final step in the knighthood process. It is performed by a fellow knight who has already undergone the same ceremony. This step is crucial in conferring the title of knight.

Chivalrous Conduct

Morally, Lady Brienne's adherence to the code of chivalry often surpasses that of the formally anointed knights. In a pivotal scene in Season 8, Episode 2, Ser Creighton and Ser Illifer debate the nature of a knight's oath. (A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms.) Lady Brienne's response to their inquiries highlights her unwavering adherence to the Seven and her honor:

Brienne - "I would have given my life for King Renly and died happy. I did no harm to him. I swear it by my sword." Ser Creighton - "A knight swears by his sword." Ser Illifer - "Swear it by the Seven." Ser Brienne - "By the Seven then. I did no harm to King Renly."

Alternative Titles and Status

If Lady Brienne is not officially a knight, her title and status are more fittingly described as:

Warrior Maid

Lady Brienne of Tarth is remembered as a formidable warrior and a maid of valor, far more respected for her conduct and honor than many of the officially anointed knights.