True knight
A true knight embodies all that a knight should be, that is, a perfect knight exemplifying all the qualities of what knighthood stands for. He is a shining example to all. Very few knights are considered true knights, achieving and maintaining such high and noble ideals is a hard duty.
There are Westerosi songs and stories, particularly those depicting honorable knights and chivalry, that are very popular amongst all stratas of the society.
He must fully embrace the oath of knighthood:
a touch on the right shoulder with the blade. "In the name of the Warrior I charge you to be brave."
The sword moves from right shoulder to left. "In the name of the Father I charge you to be just."
Right shoulder. "In the name of the Mother I charge you to defend the young and innocent."
The left. "In the name of the Maid I charge you to protect all women....[1]
Sansa Stark is captivated by the concept of the true knight at the beginning of the novels.
Chivalric code
True knights are supposed to be:
- Brave and Just
- Defend the young and innocent, especially women who can not defend themselves.
- Cleanly as well as godly[2]
- Act with military courtesy, in combat when nobles and knights were taken prisoner, their lives were spared and were often held for ransom.
True Knights
- Serwyn of the Mirror Shield
- Ser Ryam Redwyne
- Prince Aemon Targaryen, the Dragonknight
- Ser Arryk
- Ser Erryk
- Ser Gerold Hightower, the White Bull
- Ser Arthur Dayne, the Sword of the Morning
- Ser Barristan Selmy, was knighted in his 16th year by King Aegon V Targaryen after performing great feats of prowess as a mystery knight in the winter tourney at King's Landing.{{Ref|aSoS|67}]
- Ser Duncan the Tall
Quotes
He was no true knight
- Sansa Stark, to Sandor Clegane, on Ser Gregor Clegane
It is chivalry which makes a true knight, not a sword … without honor, a knight is no more than a common killer. It is better to die with honor than to live without it.
- Ser Barristan Selmy, educating his squires in the Great Pyramid
There are gods, … and there are true knights too. All the stories can’t be lies.
References and Notes
- ↑ The Hedge Knight: 518
- ↑ The Hedge Knight p.464]]
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