Would Commander Mormont Have Forgiven His Son Jorah if Given the Chance?

In the complex web of emotions and moral dilemmas presented in George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, the character of Commander Jon Arryn, known as Commander Mormont, stands as a paragon of honor and duty. However, his relationship with his son, Jorah Mormont, presents a poignant tale of betrayal, redemption, and the potential for forgiveness. Would Commander Mormont have forgiven his son Jorah if given the chance? This essay explores the character dynamics, the moral quandaries, and the probable outcome.

The Context of Disgrace: A House Dishonored

Commander Mormont's initial reaction to Jorah's actions is one of deep disappointment and disgust. Jorah's act of selling slaves, an illegitimate act in a society that values honor and justice, is the epitome of a dishonorable deed. This betrayal of trust and the family honor is a severe affront that Commander Mormont, a man of impeccable integrity, cannot overlook. He views Jorah's espionage for the masked eunuch Varis and the breaking of his vows as further evidence of his unworthiness. The marriage to Daenerys' captor, Khal Drogo, is seen as a personal and family disgrace, further cementing Commander Mormont's belief that Jorah has disgraced himself and the house Mormont.

Morals and Mistrust: Jorah's Allegiance and Betrayal

Commander Mormont's initial perspective is colored by his focus on the survival of the Night's Watch and the larger war against the existential threat of the White Walkers. The idea that Jorah might be of use in exploring the mysteries of Dragonstone or the volatile political situation in Westeros is initially met with skepticism. Commander Mormont's pragmatism and moral rigidity mean that he would not have readily accepted Jorah's betrayals, even if he recognized Jorah's usefulness in the fight against the Other.

However, Commander Mormont's overriding concern for the fight against the dead, as well as his commitment to his duty, suggests that his judgment might be clouded by necessity. If forced to make a difficult decision, Commander Mormont's pragmatism could potentially override his deep-seated mistrust. This pragmatism is a distinguishing feature of many of the characters in Martin's series, who often find themselves caught between personal honor and the greater good.

Redemption and Forgiveness: A Night Before the Battle

Commander Mormont's frame of mind could be influenced by the gravity of the situation, particularly if Jorah were to serve a crucial role in the battle against the White Walkers or dragons. Under such immense pressure, his perspective might soften, and he might be prone to forgiveness. Commander Mormont values the fight against the dead above all, and for him, Jorah's support in that fight could be seen as a redeeming factor.

Although Commander Mormont might criticize Jorah's past actions, his final judgment could be more lenient if Jorah demonstrated genuine remorse and a commitment to the greater cause. The potential for forgiveness is encapsulated in the phrase "He would play rough but he would be ready to forgive him on the night before the fight." This statement hints at a complex emotional landscape where duty and personal bonds intersect.

In conclusion, Commander Mormont's relationship with Jorah is a microcosm of the larger themes in Martin's series. The dynamic between honor, duty, and forgiveness is central to the narrative. Whether Commander Mormont would ultimately forgive Jorah in a hypothetical scenario hinges on Jorah's actions and the circumstances of the fight against the White Walkers. While Commander Mormont's initial reaction is steeped in disappointment and mistrust, his deep commitment to his duty and the greater good leaves open the possibility of redemption and forgiveness in the end.

Further Reading and Discussion

For a deeper understanding of the moral and emotional complexities in A Song of Ice and Fire, readers may explore the following resources:

Analysis of Character Development: Explore the evolution of Commander Mormont and Jorah's characters over the course of the series. Themes of Honor and Betrayal: Discuss the thematic underpinnings of honor, loyalty, and betrayal in the distinct narratives of the Seven Kingdoms. Forgiveness in Fantasy Literature: Compare the concept of forgiveness in fantasy literature, drawing parallels between Commander Mormont and other literary figures.

Discussing these topics can provide insights into the intricate moral landscapes and character dynamics in A Song of Ice and Fire, and offer a more profound appreciation of the series.