Mary Allen
Introduction: Who is the Hound?
The Hound, also known as Sandor Clegane, is a popular character in the Game of Thrones series. He is the younger brother of Gregor Clegane, also known as the Mountain. The Hound is a skilled fighter and has served as a bodyguard and soldier for various lords and kings throughout the series. Despite his abilities, he has never been recognized as a knight, which has led many fans to wonder why.
The Qualifications of a Knight
To understand why the Hound has never been knighted, it’s important to know what qualifications are needed to become a knight. In Westeros, a knight is expected to be chivalrous, honorable, and skilled in combat. They are typically trained from a young age in the art of sword fighting and are expected to uphold a strict moral code. In addition, they must be of noble birth or be knighted by someone of noble birth.
The Hound’s Background and Childhood
The Hound grew up in a violent and abusive household. His older brother, the Mountain, regularly abused him both physically and mentally. As a child, the Hound was scarred for life when his brother held his face to a hot fire, leaving him with burns that would become his defining feature. These traumatic experiences likely influenced the Hound’s moral code and made it difficult for him to trust others.
The Hound and his Relationship with Knights
Throughout the series, the Hound has had a complicated relationship with knights. On one hand, he has expressed a desire to be a knight and has shown respect for those who uphold the knightly code. However, he has also been critical of knights who he sees as hypocritical or dishonorable. This ambivalent attitude toward knighthood may have made it difficult for him to be recognized as a knight himself.
The Hound’s Physical Appearance and Scars
The Hound’s physical appearance, particularly his facial scars, have made him a feared and respected warrior. However, his scars also make him a visible reminder of his traumatic past. In a world where physical appearance is often equated with one’s worth, the Hound’s scars may have made it difficult for him to be seen as a noble and honorable knight.
The Hound’s Combat Skills and Experience
The Hound is an extremely skilled fighter and has proven himself in battle many times throughout the series. However, being a skilled fighter is not enough to become a knight. Knights are expected to be able to fight with honor and chivalry, which may not always be the case in the Hound’s brutal style of combat.
The Hound’s Moral Code and Beliefs
The Hound has a unique moral code that is not always in line with the traditional knightly code. He values honesty and loyalty but is also willing to do whatever it takes to survive. This complex moral code may have made it difficult for him to be seen as a true knight.
The Hound’s Allegiance and Loyalty
Throughout the series, the Hound has served many different lords and kings, often switching sides as it suits him. While he is loyal to those he deems worthy, his lack of consistent allegiance may have made it difficult for him to be recognized as a knight.
The Hound’s Criminal Record and Actions
The Hound has a lengthy criminal record, including murder, theft, and assault. While some of his actions were taken in self-defense or in service to a higher cause, his criminal history may have made it difficult for him to be recognized as a knight.
The Hound’s Personal Choices and Preferences
Ultimately, the decision to become a knight is a personal one. While the Hound has expressed a desire to be recognized as a knight, he has also made choices throughout the series that are not in line with the traditional knightly code. These personal choices and preferences may have contributed to his inability to become a knight.
The Hound’s Fate and Legacy
In the end, the Hound’s fate is left unclear. While he does not become a knight, he does find redemption in his final moments, saving Arya Stark from certain death. The Hound’s legacy is one of a complex and conflicted character, who defies easy categorization and challenges traditional notions of heroism and knighthood.
Conclusion: The Hound’s Place in Westerosi History
The Hound’s failure to become a knight is not due to any one factor, but rather a combination of his background, beliefs, actions, and personal choices. Despite this, the Hound remains one of the most memorable and beloved characters in the Game of Thrones series, demonstrating that one does not need a title to be a hero.