Who Would Win in a Fight Between Ser Arthur Dayne and Ser Barristan Selmy?

The age-old question of which legendary knight would triumph in a duel between Ser Arthur Dayne and Ser Barristan Selmy has long captivated the minds of fans of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series. Both Knights are portrayed with a level of ambiguity that allows for differing interpretations, but as we delve into their reputations, combat skills, and legacies, the debate remains open-ended.

Reputations and Combat Skills

Ser Arthur Dayne: The Sword of the Morning

Arthur Dayne, also known as the Sword of the Morning, boasts an unparalleled combat reputation. He was considered nearly unbeatable in one-on-one battles, a skill so extraordinary that he could take on multiple opponents and emerge victorious. His legendary feats during the Roberts Rebellion, particularly the defense of Lyanna Stark, have solidified his status as a hero. Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of Arthur Dayne's prowess is his magical sword, Dawn, which is said to be forged from the heart of a fallen star. This sword is widely believed to outcompete even the fabled Valyrian steel.

Combat Skills and Legacy

Arthur Dayne's combat skills were not just about his sword; he was also a formidable user of lances. His legacy is further cemented by the immortal line from the movie Any Given Sunday, where Al Pacino's character states, "Any given Sunday, any team can beat the other team." This sentiment applies perfectly to the debate over who would win in a fight between Arthur and Barristan.

Ser Barristan Selmy: The Bold

Ser Barristan Selmy: The Bold

Barristan Selmy, or The Bold, is a knight of immense experience and tactical acumen. Known for surviving numerous battles and duels, Selmy was an exceptionally skilled fighter. His extensive experience in various combat environments and his willingness to adapt to different situations have made him a formidable opponent. Selmy was part of the Kingsguard, sworn to protect the realm, and his reputation as a master of physical conditioning and readiness was well-known.

Combat Skills and Experience

One of the key differences between the two knights is their proficiency with different weapons. Arthur Dayne was probably a better swordsman, whereas Barristan Selmy was likely a better lance user. This distinction is particularly relevant given the nature of tourney jousting and battle—an understanding of how to use both weapons effectively can be a deciding factor.

The Ultimate Duel: Scenarios and Outcomes

In the context of a direct one-on-one fight, many believe that Arthur Dayne would have the upper hand due to his legendary status and the magical properties of Dawn. However, Ser Barristan Selmy's extensive experience and tactical acumen could potentially allow him to hold his own. The ultimate outcome would likely depend on the circumstances, such as the environment and their states of mind.

Rules and Weapons

The debate can be further narrowed by considering the actual rules and weapons used in the duel. For instance, G.R.R. Martin's Histories and Lore reveals multiple instances where Arthur Dayne uses a single, large, magical sword called Dawn. There have also been instances where he wields two similar swords in battle. Similarly, Barristan Selmy is typically depicted with a bastard sword, which is a hand-and-a-half sword that can be used effectively with one or two hands. The choice of weapons can significantly influence the outcome of the fight.

The Intangible Factors

Physical conditioning and stamina can also play a crucial role in determining who would win. Jaime Lannister once said that Ser Arthur Dayne was one of the strongest men in the realm, yet there is no mention of his physical conditioning. In contrast, Barristan Selmy frequently mentions how a knight must be the best-in-shape warrior on any battlefield. Additionally, the age of each knight is a factor—Barristan Selmy is much older than Ser Arthur Dayne, which could be a decisive factor if the fight were to continue for an extended period.

Finally, one should note that as sworn brothers, Arthur Dayne and Barristan Selmy would never have to fight each other outside of the practice yard. In fact, there is hope that when Barristan returns to Westeros, G.R.R. Martin might give him Dawn to use against the Others in the Battle of The Living vs. The Dead at Winterfell.