Is Rickon Stark More Animal Than Human? He's 4 and Thinks He's Almost a Man Grown

In the world of A Song of Ice and Fire, and later in the A Song of Ice and Fire book series, Rickon Stark is a character who captures the imagination of many. At just four years old, Rickon proclaims that he is not a baby anymore and his claim to manhood is as much about his mindset as it is about his age. This juxtaposition of human and animal traits in Rickon reveals a complex interplay between nature and nurture that is both intriguing and relatable.

The Wild Child

Rickon Stark, born as the fourth and youngest child of Eddard and Catelyn Stark, is often seen grappling with the conflicting emotions of his young age and the responsibility that comes with his position as a member of the noble Stark family. Surrounded by his siblings, each with their own unique personalities, Rickon has somewhat of an identity crisis. This is especially evident when he makes the proclamation that he is not a baby anymore. Many children at four years old make similar statements, showcasing the natural confidence and desire to grow that comes with early childhood development.

Influence of Stark Children on Their Wolves

The Stark family also has a deep connection with their wolves, and this relationship extends to Rickon. It is notable that Starks are often symbolized by direwolves, and each child in the Stark family is believed to have a guardian wolf. Unlike his siblings, Rickon's wolf, Osha, is still a wild animal with untamed instincts. This raises the question: Is Rickon indeed more animal than human, driven by the influence of the wolf?

The Blank Slate vs. The Opposite

Distinctly, Rickon is described as a "wild child," a term that captures his raw energy and freedom. His personality is characterized by a lack of structure or guidance, much like a blank slate. In contrast, his siblings, Sansa and Arya, are more structured and are actively being molded into individuals by their environment. Despite the lack of structured upbringing, Rickon is not entirely devoid of human traits. He dreams and has a sense of what it means to be a 'man.' His portrayal shows a balance between the wild, untamed nature that resonates with Osha the wolf, and the human understanding that is developing within him.

The Role of Personality

It is clear that personality plays a significant role in the development of Rickon's character. His wild nature is evident, much like his wolf companion, but it is outweighed by his dreams and aspirations to be a man. This duality is reflective of the broader theme of nature versus nurture in the context of a young child's growth. Rickon's belief that he is almost a man grown is driven by both his close connection to his wolf and his innate sense of humanity and self-worth.

The Impact on His Wolf Companion

Interestingly, the relationship between Rickon and his wolf, Osha, highlights the impact of human nature on animal companions. While Rickon is still a young child who is influenced by the wildness of his wolf, his wolf, Osha, is the complete opposite. She is an untamed animal with a free-spirited nature. This contrast is not just a reflection of their respective natures but also of how they influence and image one another. Osha, by her very nature, reflects Rickon's wild side, yet her presence might also be guiding him towards understanding the complexities of being human.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Rickon Stark's enigmatic character is a fascinating blend of the wild and the human. His assertion that he is not a baby and his four-year-old mind's aspirations to be a man reflect a complex interplay between his childhood development and his connection to his wolf, Osha. The stark contrast between Rickon and his wolf embodies the deeper themes of nature and nurture, making him a relatable and captivating character in the A Song of Ice and Fire series.

Keywords