The Mythical Ser Brynden Tully: A Knight of Massive Influence in Game of Thrones

Who Exactly is Brynden Tully?

"Yup. The show killed him off for the sake of tying off loose ends, but he's alive in the books."

Brynden Tully, also known as the Blackfish, is a mythical and enigmatic knight in Game of Thrones. While the television series leaves him dead, the books keep his legend alive. This article delves into the fascinating life of Ser Brynden Tully, a key figure in the narrative of Westeros.

Ser Brynden Tully: A Knight Sworn to House Tully

Ser Brynden Tully, the Blackfish is a knight sworn to House Tully of Riverrun. As the younger brother of Lord Hoster Tully, the High Lord of the Trident, and the uncle of Catelyn (Lady Stark), Lysa (Lady Arryn), and Edmure (Next Lord of the Vale), his influence extends to all three major families of the Dorne-Baylands alliance. In the television show, he met his demise, but in the books, he continues to appear, adding depth and intrigue to the narrative.

The Rise of Ser Brynden Tully

Brynden Tully, also known as the Blackfish, was no ordinary knight. His rise to fame began during the War of the Ninepenny Kings in 260 AC when he fought battles on the Stepstones against the notorious Band of Nine. His prowess and bravery earned him great fame and renown throughout the Seven Kingdoms.

Strained Relationships and the Birth of the Blackfish Symbol

After his father, Hoster Tully, passed away, Brynden inherited his role. Initially, Hoster tried to engage Brynden in a marriage with Bethany Redwyne, but Brynden refused, damaging their relationship. Upon a fit of pique, Hoster referred to Brynden as the "black goat of the Tully herd," causing Brynden to adopt the Blackfish symbol as his own, representing House Tully instead of a goat.

Good Relations and Personal Connections

Despite the strained relationship with Hoster, Brynden had good relations with Hoster's children: Catelyn, Lysa, and Edmure. He also caught the attention of a young Jaime Lannister, who visited Riverrun for Lysa but preferred the company of Blackfish and his adventures during the War of the Ninepenny Kings.

Roberts Rebellion and Further Fame

During the Roberts Rebellion in 282 AC, Brynden Tully played a crucial role. Catelyn Tully's betrothed, Brandon Stark, and her father, Lord Rickard Stark, were killed by King Aerys II Targaryen. Catelyn was subsequently betrothed to Brandon's brother, Lord Eddard Stark, and Lysa to the Lord of the Vale, Jon Arryn. However, during the wedding feast, Brynden informed his brother that he had been of service to Lord Arryn, regarding this as a personal rejection, Lord Hoster disowned Brynden and refused to speak his name for years to come.

Continual Involvement and Final Assignments

Despite his disownment, Brynden’s involvement continued. He fought in Roberts Rebellion, further increasing his reputation. After the ascension of King Robert I Baratheon, Brynden went to the Vale of Arryn with Lysa and was made the Knights of the Gate, the commander of the Bloody Gate, by Lord Arryn.

Conclusion

Brynden Tully, also known as the Blackfish, is a complex and intriguing character whose influence extends beyond the pages of the Game of Thrones television series. His story is a mix of military valor, family disputes, and personal loyalties, making him a key figure in the broader narrative of Westeros.