The Purposes of Beric Dondarrion and Jon Snow in the World of Westeros

The world of Westeros is one filled with complex characters, each serving a unique purpose in the grand tapestry of their world. Two characters in particular, Beric Dondarrion and Jon Snow, have prevailed as key players in the struggle against the Night King and the White Walkers. Understanding the purposes of these characters is crucial to fully comprehend the intricacies of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series and its adaptation on screen.

Beric Dondarrion's Purpose

Beric Dondarrion, often referred to as the Bloodrager or Thoros of Myr, is a significant figure in the world of Westeros. In the original novels, his purpose was more linked to bringing Lady Stoneheart back to life, a character with a complex narrative arc. Lady Stoneheart, as a potential ally to the Starks, could have played a significant role in the overall plot. However, in the books, she is offered a more tragic fate, which makes her a fitting character for revenge.

In the TV adaptation, Beric's tale takes a different turn. Given that the character of Lady Stoneheart was not present in the TV series, it is reasonable to speculate that his survival serves to create a direct path for the member of the Hound's Brotherhood Without Banners. One of Thoros's close companions, The Hound, who is another character with a mysterious origin, might have a significant role to play in the upcoming storylines. Speculation suggests that the Hound and Thoros together could be instrumental in the long-awaited Cleganebowl, a series of fights between Sandor Clegane and other combative Brotherhood Without Banner members.

Jon Snow's Purpose in Westeros

Turning to Jon Snow, his purposes are both clear and complex. As the half-blood child of Rhaegar Targaryen and Lyanna Stark, Jon Snow is a crucial figure in the prophecy of the Prince that was Promised. This prophecy states that he is destined to lead the fight against the White Walkers and the besieging of the Night King, a dark sorcerer who rules beyond the Wall.

The Lord of Light, a religious figure worshipped by the people of Westeros, needs Jon Snow alive for several reasons. Firstly, Jon Snow is the White Wolf, a symbol of honor and purity in the Nights Watch. Additionally, his history as the Friend of the Free Folk and the future ruler of Winterfell and the King in the North makes him a significant leader. If Jon were to perish, the balance of power in Westeros would be disrupted, leading to a potential stalemate or even the dominance of the Night King.

Thoughts on Jon Snow's Fate

It is worth noting that in the TV series, Jon Snow does not achieve the same level of power as he did in the books. Instead of becoming the king of the North or the Seven Kingdoms, he returns to the Night's Watch. This implies that the TV series has a different direction for his storyline. It is clear that Jon is not solely focused on overthrowing the Night King and Daenerys Targaryen, as his goals seem more aligned with protecting the realm and maintaining the balance of power.

Conclusion

Both Beric Dondarrion and Jon Snow serve critical roles in the struggle against evil in Westeros. While their purposes may vary in the books and the TV series, they remain integral to the world of Westeros and its ongoing conflict. The Lord of Light needs Jon Snow alive to ensure the continuation of the prophecy and the survival of the realm, while Thoros of Myr continues to be a significant figure in the Brotherhood Without Banner.

Keywords

Beric Dondarrion, Jon Snow, Lord of Light