Who is the Greatest Swordsman in Westeros After Jaime Lannister Lost His Right Hand?

In the tumultuous world of Westeros, the art of swordsmanship has always been highly valued. As Jaime Lannister lost his right hand in A Storm of Swords, many fans of the A Song of Ice and Fire and Game of Thrones series have debated the title of the greatest swordsman in Westeros. Key figures standing out in this debate include:

Key Contenders

1. Ser Arthur Dayne

Often regarded as one of the greatest swordsmen in Westerosi history, Ser Arthur Dayne is famed for his unmatched skill and the legendary sword Dawn. This noble knight is a formidable contender, showcasing not only his prowess with a sword but also his legendary status in Westerosi history.

2. Barristan Selmy

A highly respected knight with a long and storied career, Barristan Selmy is known for his exceptional skill and unwavering honor. His combat experience, reliability, and reputation make him a strong candidate, especially after Jaime Lannister's decline. Fans often consider him the top swordsman in Westeros, emphasizing his unparalleled expertise and integrity.

3. Sandor Clegane (The Hound)

Despite not always being portrayed as a traditional knight, Sandor Clegane's brutal fighting style and combat skills make him a formidable opponent. His experiences in the battlefield and his relentless tenacity have earned him a place among the elite swordsmen of Westeros. While he may not be considered the most courteous of warriors, his raw combat prowess is undeniable.

4. Oberyn Martell

Known for his speed and skill with a spear, Oberyn Martell was a masterful fighter who showcased extraordinary abilities during his duel with Gregor Clegane. Despite primarily being a spearman, his agility and martial prowess have made him a respected figure among other Westerosi warriors. His dynamic combat style and exceptional skill with weapons make him a formidable contender for the title of greatest swordsman.

5. Bronn

Bronn is often mentioned as a viable contender, especially in light of his famous quote from A Game of Thrones where Tyrion Lannister exclaims, 'Scum you may be but you’re undeniably useful and with a sword in your hand you’re almost as good as my brother Jaime.' This quote places Bronn in the same class as Jaime Lannister, highlighting his proficiency with the sword. His training under his father and subsequent experiences in battle have made him a reliable and formidable fighter, often ranking him among the top contenders.

6. Brienne of Tarth

While Brienne primarily relies on her strength during battle, her extensive training under her father and subsequent experience make her a formidable opponent. Her unwavering sense of honor and martial skill have earned her a place among the elite swordsmen, although she might not be considered the top contender based on raw combat prowess.

7. Jon Snow

Beyond his initial battles, Jon Snow has shown significant improvement in his swordsmanship, making him a contender for the title of greatest swordsman in Westeros. His experiences on the Wall and his ability to adapt and improve under pressure make him a strong candidate, although he might have a slight edge over Bronn in certain combat scenarios.

8. Garlan Tyrell

After Jaime Lannister lost his hand, it is argued that Garlan Tyrell would be one of the best swordsmen in Westeros. With Barristan Selmy being away with Daenerys, Garlan emerges as a top contender. He is known for his exceptional fighting skills, having practiced fighting with four men at once and showing admirable performance at the Battle of the Blackwater. His experience and demeanor during combat also suggest he would excel in high-pressure situations.

Conclusion

While it is subjective to decide who the greatest swordsman in Westeros is, the debate has narrowed down to a few key contenders. Whether it is Barristan Selmy's unmatched skill, Garlan Tyrell's proficiency, Bronn's reliability, or one of the other esteemed warriors, the title is certainly one of the most hotly debated in the Westerosi pantheon of fighters. Regardless of who ultimately emerges as the greatest, the legacy of these formidable swordsmen continues to captivate fans and inspire great discussions.

Keywords: Westerosi Swordsman, Greatest Swordsman, Game of Thrones