How Much Older is Gendry than Arya in 'A Song of Ice and Fire' and 'Game of Thrones'
One of the most interesting questions in the realm of 'A Song of Ice and Fire' and 'Game of Thrones' is how much older Gendry is compared to Arya Stark. The answer, as expected, isn't straightforward, as the books and the show take different approaches in portraying the characters' respective ages.
Books vs. Show: Age Differences
In the show, Gendry and Arya have markedly different ages. By the first season, Gendry is around 18 years old, Arya is 12, and Sansa is 14. In the books, the age gap between Arya and Gendry narrows, with Gendry being 16 and Arya 10, while Sansa is 12. These discrepancies are not trivial and create a subtle but significant shift in the dynamic between the characters.
Age Calculation in the Books
According to George R.R. Martin's novels, Gendry and Arya have a relatively clear age gap due to their exact birth years. Gendry was born in 284 AC, making him approximately 14 years old when the main story begins. Meanwhile, Arya was born in 289 AC, which sets her birth year at 10 when the story starts. This means, in the books, Gendry is about five years older than Arya. This age difference also changes as the series progresses, with Gendry being about 15/16 years old when he and Arya separate, and both being roughly the same age when we meet them again in Feast for Crows.
Age Calculation in the Show
The show's portrayal of the characters' ages is less definitive but follows a similar pattern. While there is uncertainty in some of the early seasons, fans often estimate the age gap to be around six years. In the early episodes of the show, Gendry is approximately 16 years old when Arya is around 9, making him about seven years older. This estimation tends to hold steady throughout the series, though some variations might occur due to the show's creative license in altering timelines and ages.
Context and Impact
The age difference between Gendry and Arya has a significant impact on their relationship dynamics and the narrative of the series. In the books, the age gap is used to create a sense of mentorship and a father-son relationship, where Gendry often takes Arya under his wing. His more mature perspective adds depth to Arya's character and her journey towards maturity, while the show's portrayal of a younger Gendry might change these dynamics.
Conclusion
The exact age difference between Gendry and Arya in 'A Song of Ice and Fire' and 'Game of Thrones' varies depending on whether you're reading the books or watching the show. Whether it's five, six, or seven years, the age gap significantly influences their characters and the storyline. This variation showcases the richness and complexity of George R.R. Martin's world, where small details like age can have a profound effect on the narrative and character development.