Why Didn't Arya Trust Brienne in Game of Thrones?

Introduction

Game of Thrones is a complex series with intricate character dynamics, especially when it comes to Arya Stark and her interactions with other key characters. One of the pivotal relationships in the show is that between Arya and Brienne of Tarth, but it took time and effort for them to trust each other. This article delves into the reasons why Arya, despite Brienne's heroic and compassionate nature, initially did not trust her fully.

While Brienne was established as a formidable ally and protector for Arya, their journey towards trusting one another was fraught with challenges and historical baggage. This article will explore the specific reasons behind Arya’s initial hesitance, her past experiences, and the role of other characters in this dynamic.

A Historical Context: Arya's Past with Lannisters

Arya's relationship with the Lannisters is complicated, primarily because of the negative interactions she has had. Throughout "Game of Thrones," Arya has encountered Lannisters who have not been particularly kind to her or her family. The most notable of these are the Lannister brothers, Jaime and Oberyn Martell, who betrayed and killed Arya's brother, Brandon.

Jaime, in particular, played a direct role in the death of Arya's brother, which led to her journey for revenge and survival. This traumatic event deeply affected Arya's perception of people, especially Lannisters. Even Sandor Clegane, who initially tried to protect Arya, outed Brienne as being sent by Jaime, a Lannister. This revelation, although not made with malice, still heightened Arya's distrust of Brienne.

Trust Issues and Skepticism

The idea that someone, even a stranger like Brienne, was sent by Jaime and, by extension, the Lannisters, reinforced Arya's existing mistrust and skepticism about others. Trust is a hard-won commodity in Arya's journey. Having to rely on people who may have ulterior motives or hidden agendas is a constant fear for her.

Beyond the traumatic events involving her family, Arya's encounters with Lannisters were not limited to just Jaime and Jaime's actions. She was also forced to serve under a Lannister at The Eyrie and witnessed the Lannisters' schemes and betrayals. These experiences shaped her worldview, making her highly cautious and guarded towards others, even Brienne.

The Role of Sandor Clegane

Sandor Clegane, or the Hound, played a significant role in Arya's journey and fed into her initial skepticism towards Brienne. In "A Storm of Swords," when Arya first meets Brienne, Sandor is present and insinuates that Brienne was sent to recruit Arya for Jaime, a Lannister. This comment, although a simple interpretation of what it means to be a squire, hit close to Arya's wounds. She had already been betrayed enough, and the idea that even a stranger could be sent on a Lannister mission was deeply distressing.

Despite his assurances and actions to protect Arya, Sandor’s words lingered in her mind, reinforcing her already fragile trust. This incident caused Arya to view Brienne with suspicion, adding another layer of complexity to their relationship.

The Journey Towards Trust

Despite her initial hesitations, Arya and Brienne’s relationship evolved over time. Through shared experiences, mutual respect, and a series of trials and obstacles, they began to build a foundation of trust. Here are a few examples of how their trust grew stronger:

Daughter of the Mountains: The journey to The Mountains of the Moon was a turning point. Here, Brienne's loyalty and protection were tested, and both Arya and Brienne faced significant challenges. Their mutual support and survival instincts allowed them to see each other in a new light. Killing Dick: In "A Feast for Crows," their collaboration to kill Dick Westerling earned both of their trust. This feat underscored the value and worth of their partnership. Adopted by the Tarlings: Their experience at The Rill of Waterfall was also significant. The joy and comfort of a temporary home for Arya and the care and parental figure Brienne provided, further solidified their bond.

Over time, Arya learned to rely on Brienne, and the trust that was initially broken slowly mended. Their relationship was a testament to mutual growth and understanding, making the initial hesitance even more poignant in retrospect.

Conclusion

Arya Stark’s initial hesitance to trust Brienne in "Game of Thrones" was a result of a combination of traumatic experiences with Lannisters, her inherent distrust, and the actions of others, particularly Sandor Clegane. However, as their shared journey progressed, their trust in each other became a cornerstone of their relationship. This trust allowed them to support and protect each other, ultimately transforming a stranger relationship into a deeply meaningful bond.

For fans of "Game of Thrones," their journey together is a compelling story of growth, understanding, and the complexities of trust.