The Combat Edge: Arya Stark vs Bran Stark in Westeros

In the world of A Song of Ice and Fire, the lives of fantasy characters such as Arya Stark and Bran Stark diverge sharply from our modern reality. While in our world young boys are often encouraged to participate in sports that include some form of combat training, with an emphasis on technique and safety, the brutal and uncompromising nature of combat in Westeros leaves little room for such considerations.

Training and Skill in Westeros

Combat is not just a matter of personal valor; it is a way of life in Westeros. Sons of powerful lords are rigorously trained from a young age to defend their family and honor through combat. This contrasts starkly with the traditional roles assigned to daughters, who are often groomed to be ladylike and adept in household management and needlework. Bran Stark, as the younger son, was brought up with the expectation of becoming a formidable warrior, while Arya, as the younger daughter, was destined for less physically demanding paths.

One of the earliest glimpses into the Starks' upbringing is found in Ned Stark's decision to include Bran but exclude Arya when presenting him to a condemned man. At just seven years old, a sign of the dire reality that Westeros presented, Bran was already being prepared for combat. This was further confirmed by their visit to Winterfell when Ned and the boys demonstrated their skills in the practice yard, surrounded by spectators calling out encouragement. By contrast, at the same age, Arya was engaged in the mundane task of sewing, an activity reserved for girls who would not be trained in the art of battle.

Play and Training: A Stark Parallel

It is worth noting that even in play, the Stark children reflected the strict roles assigned to them. Bran's play involved the intricacies of combat, with him knowing the proper stance, movement, and strategic engagements. Arya, in her first recorded use of a sword, at nine years old, had no formal training and demonstrated a lack of knowledge and experience. Her training in needlework, though less than ideal, still highlighted the stark difference in gendered expectations.

Arya's playfights, such as the one with Mycah, the butcher's boy, served as a stark reminder of her unpreparedness. The incident led not only to Mycah's death but also to the exile of Arya's direwolf, Nymeria. This event underscores the real consequences of untrained combat skills in a world where combat is a matter of life and death.

Training's Impact

The impact of training cannot be overstated. While some may possess natural talent, consistent and structured training significantly enhances one's abilities. For Arya, her lack of formal training meant she was outmatched even in casual playfights with Bran. The structured combat training that Bran received ensured that he was well-prepared to handle any situation that might arise.

Reflections on Jon Snow's activities within the Night's Watch further emphasize the importance of structured training. Despite his self-teaching, Jon still required the supervision and guidance of experienced trainers like Donal Noye. This highlights the indispensable role of professional training in mastering the art of combat.

Conclusion

While the Stark siblings may have shared familial bonds, the training and skills they received reflected the stark societal differences between male and female expectations. Arya's journey from untrained girl to formidable warrior underscores the transformative power of training and the transformative potential of overcoming societal norms.