Jon Snow's Care for Arya Stark: A Matter of Loyalty and Family

In the Game of Thrones series, Jon Snow's relationship with Arya Stark is deeply rooted in loyalty and familial bonds. From the first season to the final episodes, Jon's affection and support for Arya remain a defining aspect of their characters and the overarching themes of the series, including family and loyalty.

Season 1: The Bonding Moment

One of the earliest moments that highlights Jon's care for Arya occurs in Game of Thrones Season 1, episode 2. Here, Jon gives Arya a sword named Needle, symbolizing his support for her independence and strength. This gesture is a clear indication of his belief in Arya's capabilities. Jon was aware that Arya did not traditionally want to be a warrior, but he respected her choices and provided her with a deadly weapon that matches her prowess.

As Jon was heading to the Wall, he was confident about Arya's safety in Winterfell. However, this did not prevent him from acknowledging the distance they might feel from the rest of the family due to their unique circumstances. They shared common ground in their outsider status, with Arya not conforming to traditional lady-like norms and Jon being a bastard, further deepening their connection.

Season 7: The Reunion

Later, in Season 7, their bond is further emphasized during their reunion. Jon and Arya express their love for each other and their shared commitment to their family. This reunion is a testament to their mutual respect and loyalty. The series consistently portrays Jon as someone who prioritizes his family, even coming close to renouncing his post at the Wall to join Robb Stark, and almost sacrificing himself to save his younger brother Rickon.

Family and Loyalty: Broader Context

Jon's affection for Arya is a part of a broader picture of loyalty and family within the series. He cares for all his siblings, evidenced by his readiness to abandon the Night's Watch to join Robb and his impassioned reaction to seeing Sansa. The show constantly underscores the importance of family bonds, with Jon’s actions driven by a profound sense of duty and love.

However, it's important to acknowledge the traditional and social barriers that prevent Jon and Arya from having a romantic relationship. While the Targaryens accept brother-sister relationships, the Stark family strongly abides by incest taboos. Jon was not socialized within these bounds from infancy, and his upbringing as Arya’s brother binds him to her in a familial, rather than romantic, sense. This is further supported by early drafts of George R.R. Martin's books, which initially explore the possibility of an incestuous relationship between Jon and Arya, though this was ultimately excluded from the show.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Jon Snow's care for Arya Stark is not just a matter of romantic love but a deep-seated sense of loyalty and familial bond. His actions throughout the series and particularly in their reunion in Season 7 reveal a strong attachment and unwavering support. Jon’s character is a reflection of the themes of family and loyalty, which are at the core of Game of Thrones.