The Secrets and Mysteries of High Sparrow: Understanding the House of Black and White

The House of Black and White, a pivotal location in Game of Thrones, draws significant inspiration from the Greco-Roman mysteries and the orientalist myths surrounding the Assassins. These mystery religions are centered around a set of secrets known only to the initiated, often passed on verbally and forbidden from being written down. The mysteries were often obfuscated through ritual, esoteric word use, and symbolic actions, making them difficult to understand and participate in without the proper guidance.

The Process of Becoming a Face-Changing Assassin

Although I have not yet read the books, it is clear that the process of becoming a face-changing assassin is complex and not something that can be learned in a day. High Sparrow, or perhaps Jaqen H'ghar, was likely waiting to see if Arya Stark was ready to make the required commitment. This commitment is symbolic, as it often involves the transformation of one's identity, akin to that of the Faceless Men.

Learning Through the Socratic Method

Arya Stark's journey under the tutelage of Jaqen H'ghar mirrors the Socratic method. This method involves asking questions to which the teacher already knows the answers, requiring the student to arrive at the answer through their own analysis and reasoning. Unlike a straightforward instruction, this method demands that Arya realizes the truth on her own. Jaqen's questions are designed to guide Arya towards her own understanding, without giving away the answers.

Just like how a kindergarten teacher encourages students to solve math problems, Jaqen is facilitating Arya's self-discovery. By asking questions and guiding Arya's self-reveal, he ensures that she is the one arriving at the answers. For instance, he tells her, 'You must become No One', but he waits for her to find the meaning of this phrase herself. This process is essential for her growth and transformation; no one can just be told to become something different without understanding what it truly means.

The Faceless Men as the Strangest Faction

The Faceless Men, a faction known as the Faceless Men in the A Song of Ice and Fire series, are among the most enigmatic and mysterious groups in Westeros. They are a religious order that specializes in practicing face-changing, a form of human sacrifice that involves transforming individuals into faceless beings. The members of this order are said to be the worshippers of the Many-Faced God, who is also known as the god of death.

These mysterious figures are not your usual killers; they are skilled in reanimation and secret rendition, using their powers to make others their puppets. Unfortunately, the exact nature of their sect and practices remains shrouded in secrecy. Even to seasoned readers, the true nature of the Faceless Men and the House of Black and White remain somewhat elusive. Journeys of discovery, like those undertaken by Arya Stark, will continue throughout the series, as she and others uncover the depths of this ancient and secretive order.

Conclusion

The House of Black and White is a place of mystery and initiation. It is where secrets are kept and where transformation occurs. Through the Socratic method and the journey of self-realization, Arya Stark is learning to become the person she needs to be. The Faceless Men, while central to the story, remain a mystery, adding depth and intrigue to the narrative. These elements make the House of Black and White a place of immense significance in the world of Game of Thrones.