The Feasibility of Serving Both The Night’s Watch and The Kingsguard

Introduction

In the rich and complex world of A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin, the Night’s Watch and the Kingsguard each hold a unique position in the realm of Westeros. The Night’s Watch, dedicated to the protection of the realm from supernatural threats in the Beyond, is a unique order that requires individuals to abandon their former lives and oaths, while the Kingsguard serves as the personal protectors of the King and holds the highest honor in the realm. Given these stringent requirements, one may wonder: is it possible for someone to serve in both of these esteemed groups simultaneously? This article delves into the historical context, the implications, and the potential challenges.

Historical Context

The Night’s Watch and the Kingsguard have a long-standing tradition, each with its own set of oaths and responsibilities. The Night’s Watch, founded by the First Men, is a brotherhood of men who take three vows: to the Night’s Watch, to the King beyond the Wall, and to each other. Members of the Night’s Watch leave their families and oaths behind, devoting their lives to the defense of the realm against the great Other and his army of the dead.

The Kingsguard, on the other hand, serves as the elite protectors of the King or Queen and is renowned for its unswerving loyalty and courage. Members of the Kingsguard take an additional vow to the King, promising to defend the realm with all their power. They are considered the most prestigious members of the realm.

The key difference lies in the nature of their oaths. While the Night’s Watch requires members to leave everything behind, the Kingsguard remains a part of the broader realm and often returns to their duties in King’s Landing.

Real-Life Parallels and Historical Precedents

Examining historical precedents can provide some insight. In the known world, the closest parallel to the concept of serving both the Night’s Watch and the Kingsguard might be the historical orders or knights. For instance, during the era of feudalism, a vassal or a knight might hold multiple fiefs and serve in different capacities within the kingdom. However, these situations were often temporary or required a significant departure from one’s original duties.

One notable reference can be drawn from the character Lucamore Strong from George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire. Lucamore Strong, a member of the Kingsguard, was eventually sent to the Wall for breaking his vows by fathering children. This event underscores the gravity of the oaths taken in both orders and the societal implications when such oaths are broken.

Implications and Challenges

For an individual to serve in both orders, they would face a significant amount of pressure and scrutiny. The fundamental nature of these orders requires a complete devotion, a sacrifice that goes beyond the call of duty. The Night’s Watch’s vow to leave behind family, home, and any form of personal life sets a high bar for its members. Similarly, the Kingsguard requires absolute loyalty and service to the King. A person serving in both would have to navigate the potential conflict of these two ideologies, especially when they may have different priorities or threats.

Moreover, the practicality of such a dual role would be questionable. The Night’s Watch operates on the extreme northern frontier, where the threat of the Others and wildlings is real and constant. The Kingsguard, on the other hand, is based in King’s Landing and serves a different purpose. Logistically, it would be challenging for a single individual to maintain such a dual commitment without significant sacrifices in either capacity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the idea of an individual serving both the Night’s Watch and the Kingsguard might seem intriguing, it faces numerous challenges and contradictions inherent in the nature of their respective oaths and roles. Historical parallels suggest that such a scenario is highly improbable, and in the context of George R.R. Martin’s world, it would likely be met with severe consequences. The dual role would require exceptional circumstances and an unprecedented level of commitment that goes beyond the average expectations of an honorable knight or a devoted ranger.

Through this exploration, we gain a deeper understanding of the complex and often contradictory nature of fealty and loyalty in the world of Westeros.