5 Swords From Thrones

The world of fantasy and adventure has given us many iconic swords, but few are as revered as those from the realm of Westeros in the hit series Game of Thrones. With a rich history and intricate details, the swords from Thrones have become an integral part of the show's mythology. In this article, we'll delve into the significance and craftsmanship of five notable swords from the series, exploring their history, owners, and the impact they had on the storyline.

Introduction to the Swords of Westeros

Westeros, the continent where the majority of Game of Thrones takes place, is home to a plethora of legendary swords, each with its own unique story and characteristics. These swords are not merely weapons but symbols of power, loyalty, and honor. They are crafted with precision and often bear names that reflect their origins or the deeds they’ve witnessed. The art of swordsmithing in Westeros is a revered tradition, with masters like Tobho Mott and the smiths of Qoherys creating blades that are both functional and beautiful.

1. Ice - The Sword of the Starks

Ice, the greatsword of House Stark, is one of the most iconic swords in Game of Thrones. Forged from Valyrian steel, Ice is a symbol of the Starks’ honor and their role as the Kings in the North. Its history dates back centuries, and it has been wielded by many Stark lords, including Eddard “Ned” Stark. The sword’s significance goes beyond its martial use; it represents the Starks’ commitment to justice and their duty to protect the realm. Unfortunately, Ice meets a tragic end, being melted down and reforged into two new swords, Oathkeeper and Widow’s Wail, by Tywin Lannister.

The Significance of Valyrian Steel

Valyrian steel, the material from which Ice and many other legendary swords are forged, is extremely rare and valuable. It is known for its strength, durability, and ability to hold a sharp edge. The process of forging Valyrian steel is lost to the current era, making swords like Ice truly irreplaceable. The craftsmanship and history behind Valyrian steel swords are a testament to the advanced knowledge and skill of the ancient Valyrians.

2. Longclaw - The Sword of the Mormonts

Longclaw, the ancestral sword of House Mormont, is another notable sword from Game of Thrones. Originally wielded by Lord Commander Jeor Mormont of the Night’s Watch, Longclaw is given to Jon Snow as a symbol of gratitude and respect. The sword is also made of Valyrian steel and features a bear’s head on its pommel, reflecting the Mormont sigil. Longclaw plays a significant role in the battles against the White Walkers, representing the unity and determination of those fighting for the living.

The Unity of the Realm

The story of Longclaw highlights the theme of unity in the face of adversity. Despite the many conflicts and divisions within Westeros, the threat of the White Walkers brings together individuals from different houses and backgrounds. Longclaw, as a symbol of this unity, demonstrates that even in a world filled with strife, there is a common cause that can unite even the most sworn of enemies.

3. Needle - Arya’s Sword

Needle, the slender sword wielded by Arya Stark, is a symbol of her journey from a young girl to a skilled warrior. Given to her by Jon Snow, Needle is a constant companion to Arya throughout her travels and training. Despite its small size, Needle proves to be a formidable weapon in the right hands, reflecting Arya’s growth into a deadly and resourceful fighter. The significance of Needle lies not only in its utility but also in the emotional bond it represents between Arya and her family.

Arya’s Journey

Arya’s story, intertwined with Needle, is one of self-discovery and survival. From her early days in Winterfell to her faceless training in Braavos, Arya faces numerous challenges that test her courage, wits, and combat skills. Needle remains a constant in her life, a reminder of her origins and the people she loves, even as she navigates the complex world of the Faceless Men.

4. Blackwater Bay - Stannis’s Sword

While not as ancient or forged from Valyrian steel, the sword wielded by Stannis Baratheon during the Battle of Blackwater Bay is noteworthy for its significance in the storyline. Although Stannis’s sword does not have a widely recognized name, its appearance in critical moments of the series underscores the themes of power, duty, and the cost of ambition. Stannis, as a character, embodies the complexities of leadership and the moral dilemmas that come with it, and his sword is a silent witness to his struggles and ultimate demise.

Leadership and Ambition

Stannis’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the importance of moral leadership. His decision to sacrifice his daughter, Shireen, in an attempt to gain the favor of the Lord of Light, marks a turning point in his character’s downfall. The sword, in this context, represents the tools of power and the difficult choices that leaders must make, highlighting the blurred lines between right and wrong in the pursuit of a goal.

5. Dragonsteel - The Sword of House Targaryen

Dragonsteel, though less prominent in the television series, holds significant importance in the lore of Game of Thrones. It is said to be one of the two swords (along with Blackwater Bay, though the latter’s significance is more narrative than historical) wielded by Aegon the Conqueror during his conquest of Westeros. Dragonsteel, like Ice, is forged from Valyrian steel, symbolizing the Targaryens’ claim to the Iron Throne and their dragon lord heritage. Its history and the legend surrounding it add depth to the Targaryen dynasty’s story, highlighting their origins and the source of their power.

The Targaryen Legacy

The Targaryens, with their dragonlords and Valyrian steel swords, represent a bygone era of power and magic. Dragonsteel, as a relic of this era, serves as a reminder of the conquests and the glory of the Targaryen dynasty. The sword’s story intertwines with the complex web of Targaryen history, from Aegon’s conquest to the eventual downfall of the dynasty, symbolizing both the grandeur and the decline of the dragonlords.

In conclusion, the swords from Game of Thrones are not just instruments of war but carry deep significance and symbolism within the narrative. They represent the characters' values, the houses' histories, and the overarching themes of the series. Through the stories of Ice, Longclaw, Needle, Blackwater Bay, and Dragonsteel, we glimpse the complexity and richness of the world of Westeros, a world where swords are not just made of metal but are forged in the fire of human experience.