Why Did Ser Arthur Dayne Insist on Fighting Ned Stark and His Men at the Tower of Joy?

One of the most intriguing and debated moments in George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series is the scene where Ser Arthur Dayne, a member of the Kingsguard, insists on fighting Ned Stark and his men at the Tower of Joy, despite knowing that King Aerys II Targaryen was dead and the war was lost.

Loyalty to the Targaryens

Dayne's fierce loyalty to the Targaryen dynasty played a significant role in his decision to fight. His commitment to the Targaryen cause may have compelled him to continue his fight long after it seemed futile. Despite the war being lost and King Aerys dead, Dayne saw it as his duty to protect the last remnants of the Targaryen line, even if only to save the child Jon Snow supposedly has with Lyanna Stark.

Honor and Duty

As a knight of the Kingsguard, Dayne was sworn to protect the royal family and their interests. He believed that his duty required him to defend the last Targaryen heir, Jon Snow, and give him the best possible chance to survive. For Dayne, his honor and loyalty to the Kingsguard were non-negotiable. He was prepared to die to fulfill this duty, making his actions a testament to his unwavering honor.

The Importance of the Tower of Joy

The Tower of Joy held deep significance, as it was believed to be the location where Lyanna Stark was giving birth to a child. The integrity of this legacy was crucial to Dayne. He was willing to fight to protect the child, believing that this was the last hope for the Targaryen line. His decision to fight was not just about personal survival but about the preservation of the Targaryen legacy.

Personal Honor

Dayne was known as one of the finest knights in Westeros, often called the "Flower of the Kingsguard." His personal honor was closely linked to his service to the crown. Even in the face of defeat, he saw it as his responsibility to protect the child and the throne. His continued fight was aimed at maintaining his reputation and honor, which were so deeply ingrained in his identity as a knight.

Misunderstanding the Situation

Another aspect that might have influenced Dayne's actions was his misunderstanding of the situation. He might have underestimated the extent of Stark's forces and the likelihood of being able to escape. Additionally, he might have believed that there was still a chance to rally support for the Targaryen cause or that he could successfully defend the child against Stark's men. These misperceptions could have led him to continue his fight even when it seemed hopeless.

Ultimately, Ser Arthur Dayne's decision to fight at the Tower of Joy was motivated by a complex interplay of loyalty, honor, a sense of duty, and the belief that he was still fighting for a cause worth dying for, despite the broader context of the war being lost. This twist in the plot raises important questions about the nature of duty and loyalty, and it continues to captivate readers and viewers alike.