Was Old Nan Always Right in Game of Thrones?

Old Nan, the wise and humble storyteller of the North, holds a special place in the annals of A Song of Ice and Fire and its television adaptation, Game of Thrones. Her rich tapestry of stories and legends has earned her a unique and significant role in Westeros. Her influence extends far beyond mere storytelling, embodying the deep wisdom of the region.

Legends in Context

Beyond her entertaining tales, the myths told by Old Nan are rooted in the very fabric of the world of Westeros. In the novels by George R.R. Martin, she narrates stories that turn out to have their roots in existing lore. This lends a profound realism to her presence and speech. Unlike in the show, where her stories are sometimes dismissed as mere whimsy, in the books, her wisdom is evident in ways both subtle and profound.

Character Complexity in the TV Show

The adaptation of Old Nan in the TV show, however, falls short in capturing her full depth and significance. One of the most glaring discrepancies is the portrayal of the giant named Macambre. In the show, this mythical figure is depicted as a mere joke, reducing Old Nan's storytelling from a valuable cultural heritage to a silly narrative device. This misrepresentation diminishes her character and the importance of her stories in the wider narrative.

Old Nan's portrayal in the show is also marked by the revelation that she was a wetnurse to several generations of Stark children. This means she has seen through the generations of the Stark family and has held intimate knowledge of their inner workings. Furthermore, she has been a constant presence in their lives, witnessing pivotal moments in their history.

Generational Influence and Legacy

Old Nan has an extraordinary connection to the Stark family, having nursed possibly four generations of Starks. This means she is one of the oldest survivors in the series, having known more Starks than any other living character. She has not only been a wetnurse but has also been a mentor and guardian to several Stark children.

Her influence extends to multiple generations of the Stark family, and she has provided critical guidance and nurturing to several of its members. She is even said to have helped raise six literal sorcerers, a fact that underscores her immense wisdom and understanding of power dynamics in the realm.

For instance, Old Nan played a crucial role in the upbringing of two Kings: Lord Rickard Stark, who tragically met a brutal end at the hands of the Lannisters, and possibly his brother Brandon Stark or possibly Lyanna, who is a name that Martin repeats often in the series. This interconnectedness with so many key players makes her role in the narrative indispensable.

Broader Significance

Furthermore, Old Nan's influence is felt across generations, affecting not only the Starks but also the entire North. Her tutelage of Ned Stark has left a lasting legacy, and her guidance and wisdom have shaped the mindset of her people. Her presence and stories have prepared the people of the North for the trials that lay ahead, equipping them with the knowledge and resilience needed to withstand the political and societal challenges.

In the novels, Old Nan's influence is further cemented by her role in mentoring Theon Greyjoy, a character who has a compelling redemption arc. While Theon's actions have had significant repercussions, the fact remains that Old Nan played a crucial role in his upbringing. This connection mirrors her influence over the Stark family and her importance in the broader narrative of Westeros.

Conclusion

Ultimately, Old Nan is always right, and her wisdom extends far beyond the scope of her stories. She is a symbol of the enduring power of tradition and the unseen forces that shape the fates of those around her. Despite the misrepresentations in the show, her character demands a deeper and more respectful exploration. Let us give her the recognition she deserves, as a vital and indomitable force in Game of Thrones.

Key Takeaways

Old Nan plays a crucial role in the storytelling and narrative of A Song of Ice and Fire and Game of Thrones. Her wetnursing of multiple generations of Stark children underscores her profound influence over the Stark family. She is an important mentor to several key characters, including Ned Stark and Theon Greyjoy, shaping their decisions and fates.