Would Samwell Tarly Be Happier as a Hightower or Tyrell?

Samwell Tarly, a character from George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, has faced numerous challenges throughout his journey. From the harsh realities of war under his father, Randyll Tarly, to his role as a sworn brother at the Wall, Sam's life has been marked by struggle and hardship. But what if he had been born into different circumstances? Would Samwell Tarly be happier if he had been born a Hightower or a Tyrell?

The Impact of Family Dynamics

Sam's life would have been vastly different if he had been a Hightower or a Tyrell. For starters, his father, Randyll Tarly, is a cruel and obsessed man, one of the last things Sam could have wanted to inherit. Third-generation bastards and harsh upbringing under the tutelage of Randyll have ingrained in Sam a sense of fear and submission. If Sam had been born among the Hightowers or Tyrells, his life might have taken a more favorable path.

The Great Houses of Westeros: Hightowers and Tyrells

The Hightowers and Tyrells are two of the most influential and powerful houses in Westeros. The Hightowers have a rich history in the Citadel and are known for their intellectual pursuits. If Sam had been born into this family, his interest in books and knowledge would have been encouraged and supported, rather than bullied. He might have even found his way to the Citadel, a place where books and learning are revered, instead of the Wall where he was stationed.

On the other hand, the Tyrells are known for their softness but not in a weak sense. Willas Tyrell, crippled after the tourney of vengeance, was not treated as a pariah by his family. Instead, they sought to secure a great political marriage for him, ensuring his future and support. This approach contrasts sharply with the stark realities facing Samwell. If Sam had been a Tyrell, he might have faced situations more similar to Willas, without the added burden of toxic familial dynamics.

Impact on Sam's Development

The upbringing a person receives plays a significant role in shaping their character and future. Sam's harsh upbringing, led by a man like Randyll Tarly, has left him craven and fearful. If Sam had been born to a family of Hightowers or Tyrells, he might have been less craven. Ser Garlan, for instance, would have tried to protect his little brother, which could have provided Sam with more communal support and protection, fostering a sense of security and belonging.

Furthermore, Sam's interests in books and the Citadel would have been actively encouraged. His father might have seen the value in such pursuits, and instead of the bulling, he could have received mentorship and guidance. This environment could have nurtured his intellectual curiosity and provided a pathway to knowledge and potentially high office within the Citadel, rather than the grim existence at the Wall.

Conclusion

Samwell Tarly's life is a testament to the profound impact of familial circumstances and upbringing. If he had been born a Hightower or a Tyrell, his life might have been shaped entirely differently. He might have found a life of intellectual pursuits and secure support at the Citadel, as opposed to the harsh realities of the Wall. The path of a Hightower or a Tyrell could have provided Sam with the security, education, and love he so rightly deserved.

Through this exploration, it becomes clear that Samwell Tarly’s happiness would have significantly improved if he had been born into a family that valued knowledge, intellectual pursuits, and family support.