Difference between revisions of "Kingsguard"
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− | The '''Kingsguard''', also known poetically as the 'White Swords' or 'White Cloaks', are the royal bodyguards of the [[Iron Throne]]. Supposedly the finest knights in the [[Seven Kingdoms]], they are sworn to protect their king and his family with their own lives, to obey his commands, and to keep his secrets. They are sworn for life and are forbidden from owning land, taking a wife, | + | The '''Kingsguard''', also known poetically as the 'White Swords' or 'White Cloaks', are the royal bodyguards of the [[Iron Throne]]. Supposedly the finest knights in the [[Seven Kingdoms]], they are sworn to protect their king and his family with their own lives, to obey his commands, and to keep his secrets. They are sworn for life and are forbidden from owning land, taking a wife, or fathering children.{{Ref|aGoT|6}} |
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==History== | ==History== | ||
The Kingsguard was founded by [[Aegon I|Aegon the Conqueror]] of [[House Targaryen]] as an elite bodyguard for those of royal blood. Historically composed of seven knights sworn to a lifetime of service, members are to serve unto death despite age or any physical or mental ailments, with an invalid member's duties being taken up by his sworn brothers.<ref>So Spake Martin. [http://www.westeros.org/Citadel/SSM/Category/C91/P225/ The Kingsguard] (May 22, 1999)</ref> During his time as a member of the Kingsguard, a member is not allowed to hold lands, sire children, marry, or have any worldly allegiance except to his monarch. Some of the greatest warriors, battle commanders, swordsmen, and famous historical figures in the history of Westeros have served in the Kingsguard, including members of House Targaryen itself. All members of the Kingsguard must be sworn knights.{{Ref|aGoT|57}} | The Kingsguard was founded by [[Aegon I|Aegon the Conqueror]] of [[House Targaryen]] as an elite bodyguard for those of royal blood. Historically composed of seven knights sworn to a lifetime of service, members are to serve unto death despite age or any physical or mental ailments, with an invalid member's duties being taken up by his sworn brothers.<ref>So Spake Martin. [http://www.westeros.org/Citadel/SSM/Category/C91/P225/ The Kingsguard] (May 22, 1999)</ref> During his time as a member of the Kingsguard, a member is not allowed to hold lands, sire children, marry, or have any worldly allegiance except to his monarch. Some of the greatest warriors, battle commanders, swordsmen, and famous historical figures in the history of Westeros have served in the Kingsguard, including members of House Targaryen itself. All members of the Kingsguard must be sworn knights.{{Ref|aGoT|57}} | ||
− | The Kingsguard wear all white cloaks, carry plain white shields and with some occasional exceptions wear little or no ornamentation or sigils on their white armor. This plain but striking attire lends credence to their role of being seen | + | The Kingsguard wear all white cloaks, carry plain white shields and with some occasional exceptions wear little or no ornamentation or sigils on their white armor. This plain but striking attire lends credence to their role of being seen but not heard until their advice is asked. Discretion and wisdom are often as important skills as martial ability being as they are expected to be with their king or queen at all times, privy to all their secrets, plans, and every aspect of their personal lives. |
− | The Kingsguard has continuously existed since the Conquest. Its uninterrupted history is recorded in the [[White Book]], a volume maintained by the head of the Kingsguard, known as the Lord Commander, and stored in the Round Room of the White Sword Tower, a four story tower built into one of the seaward walls of the [[Red Keep]] of [[King's Landing]]. In the White Book, officially known as The Book of Brothers, each member of the Kingsguard is given one page on which his personal history and a record of his deeds are written. Because of its status as the royal bodyguard and the many remarkable figures who have been members, the Kingsguard has been involved in many major historical events in Westeros. | + | The Kingsguard has continuously existed since the Conquest. Its uninterrupted history is recorded in the [[White Book]], a volume maintained by the head of the Kingsguard, known as the Lord Commander, and stored in the Round Room of the White Sword Tower, a four-story tower built into one of the seaward walls of the [[Red Keep]] of [[King's Landing]]. In the White Book, officially known as ''The Book of Brothers'', each member of the Kingsguard is given one page on which his personal history and a record of his deeds are written. Because of its status as the royal bodyguard and the many remarkable figures who have been members, the Kingsguard has been involved in many major historical events in Westeros. |
After the [[War of the Usurper]], [[Robert Baratheon]], the new king, chose to continue the tradition of the Kingsguard. He went as far as to elevate a member of [[Aerys II]]'s Kingsguard, Ser [[Barristan Selmy]], to the position of Lord Commander. Selmy held that position until dismissed in an unprecedented move by Robert's heir, [[Joffrey Baratheon|Joffrey I]]. After Selmy's dismissal, the last of the remaining knights from Aerys II's Kingsguard, Joffrey's uncle Ser [[Jaime Lannister]], was appointed Lord Commander. [[Sandor Clegane]] was chosen to replace the departed Ser Barristan, becoming the first member not to have been a sworn knight. | After the [[War of the Usurper]], [[Robert Baratheon]], the new king, chose to continue the tradition of the Kingsguard. He went as far as to elevate a member of [[Aerys II]]'s Kingsguard, Ser [[Barristan Selmy]], to the position of Lord Commander. Selmy held that position until dismissed in an unprecedented move by Robert's heir, [[Joffrey Baratheon|Joffrey I]]. After Selmy's dismissal, the last of the remaining knights from Aerys II's Kingsguard, Joffrey's uncle Ser [[Jaime Lannister]], was appointed Lord Commander. [[Sandor Clegane]] was chosen to replace the departed Ser Barristan, becoming the first member not to have been a sworn knight. |
Revision as of 05:44, 2 May 2012
The Kingsguard, also known poetically as the 'White Swords' or 'White Cloaks', are the royal bodyguards of the Iron Throne. Supposedly the finest knights in the Seven Kingdoms, they are sworn to protect their king and his family with their own lives, to obey his commands, and to keep his secrets. They are sworn for life and are forbidden from owning land, taking a wife, or fathering children.[1]
Contents
History
The Kingsguard was founded by Aegon the Conqueror of House Targaryen as an elite bodyguard for those of royal blood. Historically composed of seven knights sworn to a lifetime of service, members are to serve unto death despite age or any physical or mental ailments, with an invalid member's duties being taken up by his sworn brothers.[2] During his time as a member of the Kingsguard, a member is not allowed to hold lands, sire children, marry, or have any worldly allegiance except to his monarch. Some of the greatest warriors, battle commanders, swordsmen, and famous historical figures in the history of Westeros have served in the Kingsguard, including members of House Targaryen itself. All members of the Kingsguard must be sworn knights.[3]
The Kingsguard wear all white cloaks, carry plain white shields and with some occasional exceptions wear little or no ornamentation or sigils on their white armor. This plain but striking attire lends credence to their role of being seen but not heard until their advice is asked. Discretion and wisdom are often as important skills as martial ability being as they are expected to be with their king or queen at all times, privy to all their secrets, plans, and every aspect of their personal lives.
The Kingsguard has continuously existed since the Conquest. Its uninterrupted history is recorded in the White Book, a volume maintained by the head of the Kingsguard, known as the Lord Commander, and stored in the Round Room of the White Sword Tower, a four-story tower built into one of the seaward walls of the Red Keep of King's Landing. In the White Book, officially known as The Book of Brothers, each member of the Kingsguard is given one page on which his personal history and a record of his deeds are written. Because of its status as the royal bodyguard and the many remarkable figures who have been members, the Kingsguard has been involved in many major historical events in Westeros.
After the War of the Usurper, Robert Baratheon, the new king, chose to continue the tradition of the Kingsguard. He went as far as to elevate a member of Aerys II's Kingsguard, Ser Barristan Selmy, to the position of Lord Commander. Selmy held that position until dismissed in an unprecedented move by Robert's heir, Joffrey I. After Selmy's dismissal, the last of the remaining knights from Aerys II's Kingsguard, Joffrey's uncle Ser Jaime Lannister, was appointed Lord Commander. Sandor Clegane was chosen to replace the departed Ser Barristan, becoming the first member not to have been a sworn knight.
Appointments
The rite for making a new member of the White Swords can vary. In common there seems to be the fact that it is a solemn and formal event, in which the knight kneels as he makes his vows before the king, and he receives the white cloak of the Kingsguard from the Hand of the King or the Lord Commander himself. [4][5]
The Lord Commander is always chosen by the king, with seniority and ability only playing parts in the decision.[6]
Equipment
The Kingsguard wear intricate suits of white enameled scales, their fastenings for breastplate and other pieces made of silver. [7][3] They alone bear the right to carry a pure white unemblazoned shield.[8]
Jaime Lannister, the Kingslayer, breaks tradition and wears gold-plated armor with a helm shaped like a lion's head and blazons his shield with the emblem of his house. [9][8]
Historical Members
Lord Commanders
- Prince Aemon, known as the Dragonknight. Killed defending his brother King Aegon IV from an assassination attempt by two brothers of House Toyne.
- The Demon of Darry
- Ser Ryam Redwyne, Thought to be one of the best knights and worst King's Hands that Westeros had ever seen.
- Ser Alyn Connington, called the Pale Griffin.
- Ser Criston Cole, Called the Kingmaker. Served under Viserys I and Aegon II.[10] His decision to crown Aegon II against the deceased king's wishes lead to the Targaryen civil war known as The Dance of the Dragons and made him a controversial figure.
- Ser Duncan the Tall, a famed knight of humble origins. Companion to King Aegon V during the latter's childhood. Perished at the Tragedy of Summerhall.
- Ser Gerold Hightower, known as the White Bull. Member during the reign of Aerys II. Killed at the Tower of Joy.
- Ser Addison Hill, became a knight of the Kingsguard despite being bastard born. Rose to Lord Commander.[10]
- Ser Robert Flowers, became a knight of the Kingsguard despite being bastard born known as Red Robert Flowers. Rose to Lord Commander.[10]
Members
- Serwyn of the Mirror Shield. A legendary hero; said in some tales to have been a knight of the Kingsguard but in fact lived in the days of the First Men, long before there were knights, dragons, or Kinsgsguards.
- the Greatheart, a famous member.
- Unknown knight of House Baratheon; prevented an assassination attempt on Aenys I during the Faith Militant uprising.
- Ser Erryk, he died fighting his twin, Ser Arryk, during the civil war known as The Dance of the Dragons.
- Ser Arryk, he died fighting his twin, Ser Erryk, during the civil war known as The Dance of the Dragons.
- Ser Gyles Greycloak, a traitor.[10]
- Ser Jeffory Norcross, called Neveryield.[10]
- Ser Lucamore Strong, he was called Lucamore the Lusty after it became known he secretly took three wives and fathered numerous children. For this, he was gelded by the rest of the Kingsguard and sent to the the Wall by Jaehaerys I.[10]
- Ser Michael Mertyns, he was called the White Owl.[10]
- Ser Olyvar Oakheart, who was called The Green Oak
- Ser Orivel the Open-Handed. He was a coward.[10]
- Unknown knight of House Cave
- Unknown knight of House Hardy
- Unknown knight of House Pyne
- Ser Rupert Crabb,
- Ser Clement Crabb,
- Ser Clarence Crabb, the Short.
- Ser Rolland Darklyn, he was the youngest member to join the Kingsguard until Ser Jaime Lannister. He died just an hour after entering the Kingsguard.[10] One of the seven Darklyn knights to join the order over the years.
- Ser Terrence Toyne, executed for having an affair with King Aegon IV's mistress.[10] His execution led to a failed assassination attempt by his two brothers resulting in the death of Prince Aemon.
- Ser Tom Costayne. He was called Long Tom Costayne and was in the Kingsguard for sixty years.[10]
- Ser Gwayne Corbray, a member during the reign of King Daeron the Good he battled Daemon Blackfyre for nearly an hour at the Battle of the Redgrass Field during the Blackfyre Rebellion before being defeated.
- Ser Donnel of Duskendale, a member[10] during the reign of King Daeron the Good.
- Ser Willem Wylde, a member during the reign of King Daeron the Good.
- Ser Roland Crakehall, a member during the reign of Daeron II and Aerys I.
- Ser Gwayne Gaunt, a member during the reign of Aerys II. Killed during the Defiance of Duskendale.
- Ser Harlan Grandison, a member during the reign of Aerys II. Died in his sleep prior to Tourney at Harrenhal, replaced by Ser Jaime Lannister.
Under Aerys II just prior to the war of the Usurper
- Lord Commander Ser Gerold Hightower the White Bull. Killed at the Tower of Joy.
- Prince Lewyn Martell, killed by Ser Lyn Corbray at the Battle of the Trident.
- Ser Barristan Selmy, called Barristan the Bold. Survived the Battle of the Trident and served Robert Baratheon.
- Ser Oswell Whent, known for his dark humor. Killed at the Tower of Joy.
- Ser Arthur Dayne the Sword of the Morning. Deadliest of the Kingsguard at his time. Killed by Eddard Stark at the Tower of Joy.
- Ser Jonothor Darry, killed at the Battle of the Trident.
- Ser Jaime Lannister the Kingslayer. Earned his epithet during his father's Sack of King's Landing.
Recent Members
Under Robert I
It should be noted that after the War, King Robert was left in the position of having to fill not one but five vacancies in the Kingsguard. This, along with the blatantly political appointments made by his wife, Queen Cersei Lannister, lead many to regard the present as a low point in the Kingsguard's history. The continued inclusion of Jaime Lannister despite his betrayal of Aerys II was poorly received by many outside of the Lannister inner circle.
- Ser Barristan Selmy, Lord Commander. Served under Aerys II. Pardoned by King Robert after the War of the Usurper and promoted to Lord Commander.
- Ser Jaime Lannister. Served under Aerys II. Survived the War of the Usurper and retained in his position in the Kingsguard under King Robert.
- Ser Arys Oakheart
- Ser Boros Blount
- Ser Mandon Moore
- Ser Meryn Trant
- Ser Preston Greenfield
Under Joffrey I
The Kingsguard entered an even more controversial time after the death of King Robert. His heir, King Joffrey, dismissed Lord Commander Selmy, something never before done in the history of the Kingsguard. This time period also saw the appointment of a unanointed and brutal House Lannister retainer, Sandor Clegane. These changes in the Kingsguard including the appointment of Lannister loyalists and Loras Tyrell of House Tyrell, Lannister allies in the War of the Five Kings, can be viewed as attempts to make political appointments in order to solidify Lannister power on the throne.
- Lord Commander Barristan Selmy, was the best sword in the realm during his youth, he was dismissed in an unprecedented move by King Joffrey Baratheon after Robert's death. Joins Daenerys Targaryen in the far east as her adviser and Queensguard.
- Lord Commander Jaime Lannister, elevated after Selmy's dismissal. His right hand was amputated by the Brave Companions at Vargo Hoat's order after his capture. Returned to King's Landing by Brienne of Tarth.
- Sandor Clegane raised to the white cloak when Barristan Selmy was dismissed. During the Battle of the Blackwater Sandor fought bravely but later deserted due to his fear of fire. Controversially, Sandor was raised to the white cloak by King Joffrey in spite of his not being an anointed knight.
- Ser Meryn Trant.
- Ser Arys Oakheart, sent to Dorne with Princess Myrcella.
- Ser Boros Blount, removed for surrendering his ward, Prince Tommen to Tommen's uncle, Tyrion Lannister. Despite this, no harm came to Tommen and Blount was later reinstated by Tywin Lannister when Sandor Clegane deserted.
- Ser Osmund Kettleblack, former sellsword. Raised to the Kingsguard when Boros Blount was stripped of his white cloak for cowardice. While superficially Ser Osmund and his two brothers are sworn swords of Cersei Lannister, in truth they are agents of Petyr Baelish.
- Ser {Preston Greenfield}, killed by rioters in King's Landing.
- Ser Balon Swann, raised to the Kingsguard after the death of Preston Greenfield.
- Ser {Mandon Moore}, killed by Tyrion Lannister's squire, Podrick Payne, at the Battle of the Blackwater after he tried to murder Tyrion.
- Ser Loras Tyrell, known as the Knight of Flowers and former lover of Renly Baratheon raised to the Kingsguard after the death of Mandon Moore.
Under Tommen I
- Lord Commander Jaime Lannister, missing in the Riverlands.
- Ser Loras Tyrell, rumored to be near death after the Siege of Dragonstone.
- Ser Osmund Kettleblack, currently in a dungeon cell.
- Ser Balon Swann, hunting Gerold Dayne in Dorne.
- Ser Meryn Trant.
- Ser Boros Blount, made Tommen's food taster.
- Ser Robert Strong, raised to the White Cloak after Oakheart's death. Suspected of actually being the re-animated body of Gregor Clegane by Kevan Lannister.
- Ser {Arys Oakheart}, killed by Areo Hotah in Dorne, seduced into helping a failed coup by Arianne Martell.
Kingsguard of Aegon VI
Upon landing in Westeros with the Golden Company Aegon named his friend Rolly the first of his new Kingsguard. Jon Connington did not approve of the choice and asked Aegon to leave the other six slots open for knights of renown and sons of great Lords which would add luster to there cause.
- Ser Rolly Duckfield.
See also
References and Notes
- ↑ A Game of Thrones, Chapter 6, Catelyn II.
- ↑ So Spake Martin. The Kingsguard (May 22, 1999)
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 A Game of Thrones, Chapter 57, Sansa V.
- ↑ A Game of Thrones, Chapter 58, Eddard XV.
- ↑ A Clash of Kings, Chapter 49, Tyrion XI.
- ↑ So Spake Martin Archon Meeting (October 5, 2001)
- ↑ A Game of Thrones, Chapter 15, Sansa I.
- ↑ 8.0 8.1 A Game of Thrones, Chapter 30, Eddard VII.
- ↑ A Game of Thrones, Chapter 12, Eddard II.
- ↑ 10.00 10.01 10.02 10.03 10.04 10.05 10.06 10.07 10.08 10.09 10.10 10.11 A Feast for Crows, Chapter 16, Jaime II.
This page uses content from the English Wikipedia. The original content was at Kingsguard. The list of authors can be seen in the page history of Kingsguard. As with A Wiki of Ice and Fire, the content of Wikipedia is available under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License.
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