The Unsullied and Freedom: A Critical Analysis

Adherents of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire (ASOIAF) universe often grapple with the intricate balance of freedom and servitude, particularly in the case of the Unsullied. In this discourse, we explore the extent to which the Unsullied experience genuine freedom under Dany (Daenerys Targaryen). While Daenerys may have nominally freed the Unsullied, their behavior and actions suggest a different narrative of servitude and obedience.

The Nature of Freedom

The Unsullied's freedom under Daenerys is not as freedom as it might seem from the outside. Daenerys has the Unsullied at her disposal, and while she may have made a symbolic gesture to free them, their reality remains fraught with limitations. Almost none of them would leave even if they could, because their entire lives revolve around a singular task: fighting and defending wealthy cities in Essos. Brainwashing and altering their brain chemistry have left the Unsullied with little sense of free will, making their decision-making processes more akin to rote compliance.

Unchanged Behavior

Even if the Unsullied were still enslaved, their behavior would likely be markedly different. The fact that they do not leave, refuse orders, or even think of alternative pursuits hints at a deeper form of servitude. Grey Worm, as their captain, consistently does what he is told, mirroring the loyalty and blind obedience expected of a slave army. Such behavior suggests that their freedom is a facade, and their actions are more a result of their conditioned response rather than conscious decision-making.

The Consequences of Their Actions

What impact does their quest for freedom have on the Unsullied, especially in terms of conquering Westeros? For the Unsullied, conquering Westeros does not bring about tangible personal benefits. They are a means to an end for Daenerys, providing moral satisfaction in having a non-slave army while maintaining their unyielding obedience. Their gratitude to Daenerys, as many of her admirers claim, could be seen as a form of submission rather than genuine freedom. This gratitude binds them to a quid pro quo, where they are expected to serve Daenerys perpetually simply because she has freed them.

Defining True Free Will

The true test of freedom lies in the ability to make conscious and autonomous decisions. Any deviation from the status quo, such as questioning orders or seeking alternative paths, would be a clear sign of free will. However, the Unsullied do not exhibit such behavior. Their loyalty to Daenerys is profound and unwavering, but this does not necessarily equate to the freedom of choice. In fact, the very suggestion that they might have a different form of choice is often met with skepticism, reinforcing the monolithic narrative of their unquestioning obedience.

Conclusion

While Dany's actions might be seen as heroic in freeing the Unsullied, the reality of their servitude and compliance challenges this notion. Their devotion to her is a reflection of their programmed obedience rather than true freedom. George R.R. Martin's choice to emphasize the Unsullied's loyalty over self-determination raises important questions about the nature of freedom in a world where individuals are deeply conditioned to follow orders. The Unsullied's unwavering loyalty is both a testament to their servitude and a critique of the superficial nature of freedom.