Benjen Stark's Motivations: Bringing Jon Snow to the Night's Watch Wall

In the world of Game of Thrones, a complex web of relationships and secrets intertwine, making every action and decision significant. When Benjen Stark decides to bring Jon Snow to the Night's Watch wall, it is a pivotal moment that alters the course of both Jon’s and significant events. This article delves into the possible motivations behind Benjen Stark's decision, exploring the layers of loyalty, familial affection, and hidden secrets that drive his actions.

Underlying Reasons for His Decision

Benjen Stark, the mysterious and enigmatic member of the Stark family, is often seen as a figure of complexity. His decision to bring Jon Snow to the Night's Watch wall, a decision that could potentially ostracize him from Winterfell, is rooted in several factors. Among these, the most prominent are familial loyalty, paternal affection, and a deeper knowledge he clings to.

Family Loyalty: Benjen Stark is one of the many family members who are bound by the Stark code of loyalty. His uncle-nephew relationship with Jon Snow strengthens this bond. He feels a deep sense of duty towards Jon, who is regarded as a part of the Stark family, even though Jon is an illegitimate bastard. This loyalty transcends mere familial ties; it is a sworn promise to protect and care for Jon, much like other members of the Stark family would do for their children.

Familial Affection and Pity: Pity for Jon's tumultuous life at Winterfell, marked by the Stark unfriendliness, also plays a significant role. Jon is constantly subjected to the harsh realities of life at Winterfell, especially under his uncle Eddard Stark's rule. Being away from the main family is seen as a way to ease Jon's suffering and to provide him with a new path, one that focuses on warrior skills and the protection of the realm from dark threats.

Secret Knowledge and Loyalty to His Brother: Perhaps the most compelling reason is the secret knowledge that Benjen possesses. He deeply cares about Jon's well-being and believes that the Night's Watch offers the best possible environment for him. Moreover, Benjen's oath to protect the realm from threats, akin to the one he took as a Night's Watch member, fuels his desire to see Jon join this noble cause. His decision to bring Jon to the Night's Watch can be interpreted as a deeply loyal act towards his brother, Robert, who is the King and has an interest in the well-being of his nephew.

Implications of Benjen's Decision

The act of bringing Jon to the Night's Watch wall is laden with implications and consequences. It not only changes Jon’s destiny but also redefines his relationships with the rest of the family. The decision to disobey the clear wishes of his foster father, Lord Eddard Stark, sets a precedent of rebellion, which grows into Jon’s eventual conflict with his family.

Rebellion and Conflict: Benjen's decision, while well-intentioned, could be viewed as rebellious, particularly when it comes to his ongoing conflict with Eddard Stark. It underscores the tension between loyalty to one's brother and protecting the legitimate heir's interests. Ultimately, the choice to take Jon to the Night's Watch wall reflects a more complex ethical dilemma than a simple act of familial affection.

Jon's Transformation and Rights: Jon's journey to the Wall is not just about his physical relocation. It symbolizes a transformation from the illegitimate child of Winterfell into a legitimate member of the Night's Watch. This decision challenges the established social order and raises questions about the rights and privileges of illegitimate children in the Stark family hierarchy.

Conclusion

Benjen Stark's decision to bring Jon Snow to the Night's Watch wall is a multifaceted act driven by loyalty, familial affection, and a deeper understanding of Jon's future. While it aligns with the Stark values of duty and protection, it also sets in motion a series of events that challenge the established order and Jon's identity.Understanding the underlying motivations of Benjen Stark's decision offers us a deeper appreciation of the intricate web of relationships and moral conflicts in the world of Game of Thrones.