11 AGOT Jon II: On Guard
- Jan 15, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: Jan 11
Before saying goodbye to Arya and giving her Needle, Jon must face his step-mother to say goodbye to Bran. She tries to deny him entry, but he defies her. After he's given Bran his love, Jon hears Catelyn's grief and speaks gently to comfort her, but she turns on him and says he's the one who should be hurt.
Man of the Watch
We see Jon defy Catelyn boldly but gently enough. She does not call the guard as she threatens. Jon can call bluffs? He seems formidable and loving.
In 9 AGOT Bran II Bran wonders why Jon is so angry when he gets to go with Benjen to the Wall. The implication is that, instead of being informed by someone like Benjen that Ned had given permission and did Jon still want to join the Night's Watch, Jon was informed by someone like Catelyn that he was no longer welcome in Winterfell and would be sent away with Benjen to join the Niight's Watch, since that was his wish.
Stoneheart foreshadowing
Catelyn's cruel retort to Jon foreshadows her villain turn.
Bran should be surrounded by loving care, but his mother clings to him in the throws of undeserved guilt.
Lady Catelyn is guarding Bran, not letting his wolf in.
Scenes
Goodbye to Bran
Goodbye to Robb
Goodbye to Arya
Mnemonic Titles
2023: Needle: The chapter where Jon gives Arya Needle.
2025: On Guard: Arya tasks Nymeria to guard her room to be shown the sword Jon had made for her. meanwhile, Robb patrols the yard and Catelyn sits rapt at Bran's bedside.