The Complexities of Inheritance and Orders of Chivalry in Westeros

In the narrative universe of A Song of Ice and Fire and Game of Thrones, the intricacies of inheritance laws and the obligations of orders of chivalry can often intertwine in ways that affect the survival and prosperity of noble houses. This article delves into these complexities, examining specific instances where houses have suffered due to their members joining these orders, and the legal implications of such actions.

The Case of House Tarley

Just in the recent storyline of Game of Thrones, House Tarley faced a critical situation where their house nearly became defunct due to the inheritance of its members. The events unfolded when Daenerys Targaryen torched the two surviving male members of House Tarley, leaving only Sam as the last male heir. Interestingly, Sam was not only a member of the Night's Watch but also a Maester, further complicating the issue of succession. The question arises: Can a house survive if its last potential heir has sworn to a life of anonymity and service in these orders?

Orders of Chivalry and Inheritance

The Orders of Chivalry, specifically the Night's Watch and the Kingsguard, require their members to renounce their former life and duties. In the case of the Night's Watch, a member swears an oath to protect the realm and to serve as long as they live, with the understanding that their main concern will be the defense of the North. Similarly, members of the Kingsguard renounce their hereditary claims to their family estates, ensuring that their focus is on their duties to the crown.

Historically, these orders have seen countless numbers of nobles and their heirs take vows, which can have significant impacts on their family lines. For instance, Lord Commander Jeor Mormont, a member of the Night's Watch, sacrificed his family inheritance to serve his order. Although his entire family, including himself, perished at the Battle of Harrenhal, he never left the Night's Watch to aid his family, highlighting the stark choice that such members must make.

The Example of Barristan Selmy

Barristan Selmy presents a unique example, but in a slightly different context. Barristan Selmy, a member of the Kingsguard, was the first and only son of his father. Upon accepting his position, he gave up any claims to the lands and titles of his family, which is a common practice in the orders. Notably, his father bequeathed the family seat to a cousin, which, in some cases, could be the same house. This scenario, however, does not fully encapsulate what you might be inquiring about, as the cousin who took over did not present a different house.

Legal Implications and Succession

The legal implications of membership in these orders are significant. Upon taking the vows, members essentially renounce their hereditary rights and are no longer considered part of their families' lines of succession. This can lead to complicated situations like those faced by House Tarley, where there is no male heir to claim the family name and lands.

There are instances where houses have managed to adapt and continue, such as the admission of female heirs under certain circumstances. These are often detailed in the unique laws of each house, which can vary based on the family's established traditions and the laws of the region they govern.

In conclusion, the interplay between inheritance and the duties of orders of chivalry in the narrative universe of A Song of Ice and Fire and Game of Thrones is a fascinating aspect that adds depth to the intricate political and social landscapes of Westeros. Whether a house can survive when its heir is pledged to service in the Night's Watch or the Kingsguard underscores the complex legal and social aspects of the world.