Whose Direwolf Did Jon Witness Killing a Wildling in Game of Thrones?

"Game of Thrones" has captivated audiences with its intricate plot, rich characters, and vivid imagery. One of the memorable scenes in the series revolves around Jon Snow witnessing a direwolf kill a wildling. However, the nature of this event often confuses viewers, as it involves multiple direwolves and characters. In this article, we delve into the specifics of the scene in Game of Thrones, examining which direwolf Jon Snow actually witnessed slay the wildling.

Understanding Direwolves in 'Game of Thrones'

Direwolves, also known as diredogs, are massive, intelligent wolf-like creatures that are loyal to the Stark family. They play a significant role in the show, symbolizing the strength and unity of the Stark family. The existence of these creatures is based on medieval myths and folklore, and they serve as a crucial plot device throughout the series.

About the Characters Involved

Several direwolves are introduced in the series, each associated with a member of the Stark family. The most prominent are:

Summer: Bran Stark’s direwolf. Arya’s direwolf: Arya Stark’s loyal companion. Bran’s (Rickon’s) direwolf: Rickon Stark’s direwolf. Ned’s direwolf: His direwolf did not survive past the first season. Jon’s direwolf: Initially, he did not have a direwolf, but later on, he was given Shaggydog, Rickon’s remaining direwolf after his family was killed.

The Scene in Question

The scene in question occurs in A Storm of Swords (Book 3 of the series), where Jon Snow witnesses a direwolf killing a wildling. The exact description of the event is not detailed in the books, but it is discussed in the TV show. The scene is often interpreted as happening near Castle Black, where Jon is stationed.

Who Did Jon Witness?

The confusion arises because, in the show, it is both Summer and Shaggydog that Jon witnesses. This aligns with the fact that Bran and Rickon had not separated yet, and both their direwolves were alive. The viewpoint is through Summer’s eye, looking over the shoulder of Jon.

Spoiler Alert: Reconstructing the Scene

During the episode Valar Morghulis (Season 2, Episode 3), Jon Snow encounters a wildling named Night’s Watch deserter, Orell, who is fleeing from a group of wights. As Jon follows Orell, he is approached by a fierce and bloodthirsty direwolf. The scene builds up to a frightening and climactic confrontation, culminating in the direwolf delivering a fatal bite to the wildling.

As Jon witnesses the entire incident, the direwolf in question is identified as Summer, Bran’s direwolf. According to the show, the incident occurs near Castle Black, where Jon is stationed. This point of view is captured through Summer’s perspective, making Jon’s witness appear as if he is seeing it through a third-person omniscient viewpoint.

Conclusion

The scene in question is a memorable and chilling moment in Game of Thrones. It showcases the intense and often violent nature of the world the Starks and their direwolves inhabit. The confusion around which direwolf Jon witnesses slaying the wildling stems from the fact that both Summer and Shaggydog are alive and active at the time. However, the narrative perspective makes it appear as if Jon is seeing the event through Summer's eyes.

For fans of the show, understanding the specific details of such scenes adds to the rich tapestry of the Game of Thrones universe. Whether you're a fan of the books or the show, this scene stands as a testament to the intricate and balanced storytelling that defines the series.