The Enigma of Benjen Starks Joining the Night’s Watch in Game of Thrones

Introduction

Benjen Stark, the essence of enigma in the saga of the Song of Ice and Fire, is a figure whose motivations for joining the Night's Watch have puzzled fans for years. Unlike his older brother Ned, who was the Lord of Winterfell, and his sons Robb and Brandon, Benjen took the black almost immediately after the end of the Rebellion. Although George R.R. Martin, the author, has been tight-lipped about this, there are several theories that explain why Benjen made this choice. In this article, we delve into the possible reasons behind this significant decision and the impact it had on the story of A Song of Ice and Fire.

The Succession Crisis

Benjen Stark's joining of the Night's Watch shortly after the Rebellion’s conclusion is fascinating given the complexity of the succession crisis at Winterfell. At that time, the succession order was Ned, Robb, and then Benjen. Despite Robb being an infant, the likelihood of him surviving childhood was questionable. Furthermore, a direct heir to Ned would not be guaranteed. Therefore, it is evident that Benjen's decision to join the Night's Watch was not driven by the desire for glory or a mere inclination to seek adventure.

Theories and Speculations

Several theories exist regarding Benjen's motive for joining the Night's Watch. One theory suggests that he knew about the disappearance of Rhaegar Targaryen and Lyanna Stark, raising the possibility that he was connected to the events surrounding their disappearance. Another theory proposes that Benjen committed some sort of crime and was subsequently sent to the Wall as punishment. However, without explicit evidence, these remain speculations.

Ned’s Knowledge of Lyanna's Fate

A crucial theory ties Benjen's actions to the fate of Lyanna Stark. If it is true that Ned learned of Lyanna's whereabouts from Benjen and was misled by his silence, the consequences could have been severe. Some believe that Benjen's silence led to the deaths of Ned, Robert, and Jon Arryn, leading to Ned sending his younger brother to the Wall as a form of penance.

Another variation of this theory argues that Benjen knew where Lyanna was. When Ned returned home with the news of a bastard child, the discovery of a baby he claimed was his, along with the deaths of his older brother, father, and sister, made him feel guilty. In this interpretation, while Ned did not order Benjen to join the Night's Watch, the younger Stark chose to do so as a form of redemption.

Season One’s Insights

The first season of A Song of Ice and Fire series provides insights into the motivations of other characters who joined the Night's Watch. Yohn Royce’s son is noted as one of the sons who joined for the sake of earning glory. Similarly, Jeor Mormont's decision to join the Night's Watch is believed to be driven by a deeper understanding of the impending war. This raises the question whether Benjen shared similar concerns, feeling that the true war lies beyond the Wall.

Conclusion

Benjen Stark's decision to join the Night's Watch remains a mystery, with multiple theories attempting to explain his motivations. Whether driven by a desire for redemption, the knowledge of a significant secret, or a deeper understanding of the impending conflict, his choice had profound implications for the storyline. As we continue to explore the rich tapestry of A Song of Ice and Fire, the enigma surrounding Benjen Stark remains a fascinating puzzle, awaiting further revelations.