The Myth of Brienne of Tarth at the Battle of the Bastards

Many fans of Game of Thrones are fascinated by the complex characters and their roles in pivotal battles throughout the series. One common misconception is that Brienne of Tarth was present at the Battle of the Bastards. Yet, a careful examination of the show's timeline reveals that Brienne was in a different location during this crucial battle in Season 6.

The Service of Sansa Stark

During the Season 6 of Game of Thrones, the battle of the Bastards takes place, a significant event in which factions led by Jon Snow and Ramsay Bolton clash for control over the North. During this time, Brienne of Tarth is notably absent from the battlefield. She is serving Sansa Stark at the historic Riverrun castle, far from the conflicts brewing in the North.

Escaping Riverrun

The Battle of the Bastards showcases one of the more dramatic episodes of the series, known as Bastard Bowl. However, at the time of this pivotal battle, Brienne and her squire Podrick are already on their way out. This was in response to a failed attempt to secure support from the Blackfish and the Tully men for Sansa and Jon.

The castle of Riverrun falls to the Lannister and Frey besiegers, while the Blackfish dies in the ensuing conflict. In the eighth episode of Season 6, Brienne and Podrick are seen escaping the castle. It’s well established that their escape occurs prior to the Battle of the Bastards, as the episode ends with their harrowing departure.

En Route to the North

Brienne and her companion, Podrick, were likely still on their journey back to the North when the battle occurred. This journey took them off-the-screen, as they are not seen again until the first episode of Season 7 at Winterfell. Their journey back was presumably long and fraught with danger, as it would have allowed them to escape in the heat of battle.

Missing Important Moments

Given their timing, Brienne missed not just the Battle of the Bastards but also a significant moment for Jon Snow, where he officially declares himself the King in the North. Their journey and the events leading up to it were undoubtedly critical in their roles in the ongoing power struggles within the show.

Conclusion

The myth that Brienne of Tarth was present at the Battle of the Bastards is just that – a myth. A detailed examination of the show’s timeline reveals that Brienne was indeed in service with Sansa Stark at Riverrun, aiding in a critical but ultimately failed effort to secure support for Sansa and Jon. Her journey back to the North, vastly shown in the show, was a key moment in the series that shaped her role and connection with Sansa Stark.