Lackwit

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A "lackwit" in Westeros refers to a person who is lacking intelligence, usually what the real world would call intellectually disabled. They are also often called "halfwits", "simpletons", "idiots", "simple-minded", or sometimes just "simple". Lackwits are disparaged by society.

There are lackwits in all strata of society, from smallfolk to highborn. Despite being lackwit, some highborn can still inherit; for example, Lollys Stokeworth, who becomes the Lady of Stokeworth after the deaths of her mother Lady Tanda and her sister Falyse.[1] Men have been known to marry lackwit heiresses. Male lackwits sometimes become fools.

Known lackwits

Nobles

Smallfolk

Fools

Uncertainty about Moon Boy

Moon Boy is described as a simpleton.[2] However, several characters wonder whether or not Moon Boy truly lacks intelligence.[2][3] Moon Boy is known to mock people with deft cruelty.[2][4] On one occasion, a drunken Dontos Hollard accuses Moon Boy of being a spy of Varys, and that his simple-mindedness is just an act.[3]

Quotes

I've known men to wed lackwits and suckling babes for prizes a tenth the size of Tarth.[5]

References