The Relevance of the Night’s Watch in a Changing World

As the world beyond the Wall appears more peaceful and the threat of the Night King diminishes, one can't help but wonder: What is the point of the Night’s Watch now the Wildlings are not enemies and the Night King is dead? Why was Jon Snow still sent to continue his duties at the Wall? This article delves into the ongoing importance of the Night’s Watch in a new era of Westeros.

The Night’s Watch in the New World

The Night’s Watch could serve a myriad of purposes beyond its traditional role of defending the realm. In a world where the Wildlings have been reconciled and the White Walkers are no longer an imminent threat, the Night’s Watch can take on new missions that align with the changing needs of Westeros.

Administration and Development

The Night’s Watch could now administer the lands and peoples beyond the Wall and in the Gift. Wildings have a choice to live their own way of life or integrate with the region. They may choose to move south, but that choice would come with certain obligations, such as respecting the laws and customs of the southern regions. This would provide the Wildlings with more autonomy and peace.

Furthermore, the Night’s Watch needs to rebuild Eastwatch, establishing it as a larger port. Goods and people need to be transported both from and to the Wall more efficiently, and the sea remains the most cost-effective method. A new and larger Eastwatch could facilitate trade routes across the Narrow Sea. This would bring economic benefits to the regions beyond the Wall, fostering cooperation and mutual respect.

Educational and Developmental Role

The Night’s Watch should focus on teaching the Wildlings how to practice southern skills, such as farming, fishing, forestry, and manufacturing. Criminals sent to the Wall can also be educated, learning skills that can be valuable to the region's development. These individuals are part of the Night’s Watch, and the organization can empower them to build a better future for their people. The Night’s Watch remains a democratic organization that places the needs of the Wildlings at the forefront, just as it does for other members.

The Capital of a New Territory

Castle Black could serve as the capital of a vast territory that includes the Gift, the Wall, and all the lands beyond. It is a strategically important location, as it is one of the few ways through the Wall. Castle Black should be developed further, with existing towns like Queenstown in the Gift and Whitetree beyond the Wall being expanded. New settlements should be established throughout the new Northern territory, creating a thriving network of communities.

Democratic Governance in the North

The new Northern territory should be the only place in Westeros where democratic principles are practiced. No one will bend the knee or submit to the traditional feudal system. The Night’s Watch can serve as leaders in this new democratic governance, ensuring that the people beyond the Wall have a voice and are represented.

Jon Snow and the Night’s Watch

While the Night’s Watch serves this broader purpose, the question remains: Why is Jon Snow still sent to the Wall? George R.R. Martin’s vision may have influenced the showrunners, leading to Jon rejoining the Night’s Watch as a form of continuity with his origins. However, it's important to note that the show’s ending is consistent with the books, where Jon is forever bound to the Night’s Watch. This could be interpreted in many ways, including honoring his duty, his vows, or his destiny. It also ensures a sense of closure for the story.

Conclusion

The Night’s Watch, despite its former role in combating a dire threat, remains a vital institution in the new world order of Westeros. It can serve as a catalyst for development, education, and democratic governance. Its mission has evolved, but its core principles of protection, administration, and establishment remains intact. Whether Jon Snow continues his duties or not, the Night’s Watch will likely play a crucial role in shaping the future of the northern territories.