Rickon Stark in Game of Thrones: Character Development and Greenseer Potential

After reading all the Game of Thrones books, many fans are left with the impression that Rickon Stark is a greenseer. Some speculate that he should play a larger role in future books; however, why has George R.R. Martin (GRRM) spent so little time developing Rickon's character? This article will explore Rickon's character development, symbolism, and potential for greenseer abilities, as well as the role he may play in Game of Thrones's future.

Narrative Focus

With a vast ensemble cast, Game of Thrones focuses on characters who are central to the main plots. Rickon, being quite young and separated from his family early on, naturally receives less focus compared to characters like Jon Snow, Daenerys Targaryen, or Tyrion Lannister. This narrative choice reflects the broader themes of the show, such as the impact of war on children and the brutal world of Westeros.

Symbols and Themes

Rickon symbolizes the lost innocence and the impact of war on children. His fate and development serve as a commentary on the consequences of the brutal world of Westeros rather than as a central plot device. While Rickon is suggested to have greenseer abilities, particularly through his direwolf Shaggydog, his potential might be more of a thematic element than a direct plot point. This could reflect the show's exploration of the connection between humans and nature and the mystical aspects of Westeros.

Future Developments

Although Rickon has not been a focal point, GRRM has a penchant for surprising readers with character arcs that come to fruition late in the story. It is possible that Rickon's abilities and importance will be revealed as the series progresses. The series' intricate plotting and character arcs intertwine, and Rickon's storyline may be strategically underdeveloped to allow for significant revelations or developments in future books.

Plot Structure

The narrative of Game of Thrones is known for its complex structure, with character arcs that intertwine. Rickon's storyline may be intentionally underdeveloped to build anticipation and to explore broader themes within the narrative. As the series continues, there may still be opportunities for his character to emerge more prominently.

Common Misconceptions

Many fans argue that Rickon is not a greenseer but a strong warg. Given that the story begins when Rickon is 3 years old and now 5, it is indeed unlikely that he has developed into a greenseer character. In the show, Rickon is portrayed as a secondary character, serving more as a political pawn in the politics of the North rather than a significant player. Some speculate that GRRM may save Rickon to be the Stark in Winterfell in the epilogue.

It is important to note that the notion of Rickon being a greenseer seems to stem from a misunderstanding or misinterpretation of the character. While Rickon's direwolf, Shaggydog, has abilities that suggest he might have greenseer powers, GRRM has provided no concrete evidence to support this theory. Therefore, it is more likely that Rickon's role will remain rooted in his political significance within the North.

As the story progresses, Rickon's character may continue to develop, and his role in the broader narrative may become more significant. Fans should remain open to the possibility of unexpected developments that could reveal new facets of Rickon Stark's character, potentially intertwining with the overarching themes and plot arcs of the series.