Why Ned Stark Called Jon a Bastard in Game of Thrones
A Song of Ice and Fire, the book series by George R.R. Martin, has captivated readers with its complex characters and intricate plots. One of the most intriguing elements in the series is the relationship between Ned Stark and Jon Snow, given that Ned refers to Jon as a 'bastard'. In Game of Thrones, this term holds significant meaning and reveals much about the customs and legal framework in Westeros.
Understanding the Term 'Bastard' in Westeros
In the context of the Game of Thrones universe, the term 'bastard' has its roots in the original meaning: a child born out of wedlock. In Westeros, the acknowledgment of a 'trueborn' (a child born to married parents) versus a 'bastard' often influences the social and political standing of an individual. Trueborns are entitled to inherit titles, lands, and other privileges, whereas bastards often face discrimination and are denied such rights and privileges.
The Reason Behind Ned Stark's Claim
Ned Stark raised Jon Snow alongside his legitimate children at Winterfell. Despite treating Jon with respect and a degree of familial love, Ned felt it was crucial for Jon to understand his true status as a bastard. This understanding was not merely a matter of personal identity but also had significant political implications. In the Stark family and broader society, lineage and legitimacy played a critical role in determining power and influence.
The Political Implications of Lineage
One of the key reasons behind Ned's decision to reveal Jon's bastard status lies in the political climate of Westeros. If it was discovered that the Starks were harboring the Targaryen heir, Robert Baratheon (the current king) would have likely punished the entire family, even going so far as to kill them. This underscores the precarious nature of political alliances and the dangers faced by those believed to harbor potential threats to the crown.
Assessing Jon's True Heritage
In the universe of A Song of Ice and Fire, there is a possibility that Jon Snow is not a bastard at all. The show and the books suggest that Jon's true parentage involves the complex relationship between Lyanna Stark and Rhaegar Targaryen. In the show, it is explicitly revealed that Lyanna and Rhaegar were married, although the books have yet to provide comprehensive details about this period in the story.
Despite the ambiguity in the books, there are some compelling clues that suggest Jon might be a trueborn Targaryen. One of the most significant pieces of evidence comes from the loyal Kingsguard, Ser Arthur Gerold and Ser Oswell Frey. These knights were bound by their vows to protect the true heir to the Iron Throne, and they stayed with Lyanna and her unborn child, indicating their belief in Jon's trueborn status.
The Noble Lie for Jon's Survival
Given these circumstances, Ned Stark's decision to claim Jon as his bastard, a 'claim' he later revealed to be a lie, was a strategic choice that ensured Jon's survival. By sacrificing his honor and claiming Jon as his bastard son, Ned protected his trueborn nephew from potential harm and ensured his safety in a world where the implications of lineage were fatal.
In conclusion, the term 'bastard' in the context of Ned Stark and Jon Snow carries a deep layer of significance that is both personal and political. Understanding this concept helps reveal the complexities of the Game of Thrones universe and the struggles faced by its characters in a world where family ties and bloodlines determine much of their fate.