Subtle and Not-So-Subtle Humor in ‘A Song of Ice and Fire’
'A Song of Ice and Fire' by George R.R. Martin is a series renowned for its rich and intricate narrative, but it is often overlooked for its subtle and not-so-subtle humor. This article explores some examples of humor in the series, particularly focusing on characters like Janos Slynt and Dolorous Edd.
Janos Slynt: A Ridiculous Figure with Humorous Consequences
Everything about Janos Slynt is not very subtly humorous. George R.R. Martin's portrayal of Slynt as a ridiculous figure brings a touch of humor to the otherwise vile and sly people of King's Landing. At the same time, it emphasizes that these individuals are not necessarily the most self-aware. Slynt's involvement in the tournament and his conniving at the Wall are both comedic. Even his eventual expulsion is amusing in its own way.
Dolorous Edd: A Standout Humor in the Dull Setting of the Wall
One cannot mention humor without highlighting Dolorous Edd. His character stands out among the grey setting of the Wall and beyond. Dolorous Edd brings a refreshing humor to an otherwise somber environment. Take, for example, his famous line, 'Place was overrun with rats when we moved in. The spearwives killed the nasty buggers. Now the place is overrun with spearwives.' This comment showcases Edd's dry and witty sense of humor.
In another instance, after Sam finally hits the target during archery practice, Tollett shrugged and said, 'Some dogs crawled atop me during the night. My cloak was almost dry when one of them pissed in it. Or perhaps it was Brown Bernarr. Have you noticed that the rain stopped the instant I had a roof above me? It will start again now that I'm back out. Gods and dogs alike delight to piss on me.' This humor is straightforward, yet it fits perfectly into the narrative and setting of the Wall.
Humor in Stannis Baratheon’s Dialogue
Stannis Baratheon is a key figure in the series noted for his very dry humor. In one scene, when he learns that Gilly is Craster's daughter, he says, 'Why don’t you and the baby ride on up and live with the mountain men? I don’t want abominations on the Wall because—this isn’t King’s Landing.' This statement is not only humorous in its dryness but also fits the character's stern personality.
During another exchange, when Janos Slynt vies to be the Lord Commander and asks who would be better than him, Stannis suggests the castle's cook. Stannis is known for his biting wit and this line exemplifies that. Another example is when Renly boasts that Margaery came to him as a virgin, and Stannis deadpans, 'In Renly's bed, she'd stay that way.' This line is dripping with sarcasm and adds a layer of humor to the scene.
There is also the memorable moment when Stannis lists all the evils Jaime Lannister has committed but still manages to call him 'Ser Jaime Lannister, Kingslayer, sister-fucker'. This line not only highlights Stannis's willingness to call out the truth but also brings a touch of humor to the scene, given the severity of the subject matter.
As a concluding note, the humor in 'A Song of Ice and Fire' serves to lighten the mood and sometimes provide a much-needed break from the dark and gritty world that Martin has created. From Janos Slynt's misplaced sense of humor to Dolorous Edd's dry wit, these characters add an element of levity to what is otherwise a very serious and often grim narrative. Stannis Baratheon, with his dry and biting humor, also brings a layer of amusement to the series, making it even more engaging.