Why Was the Blackfish Disappointed in Jaime Lannister?

In the Game of Thrones series, the character of the Blackfish, Brynden Tully, plays a significant role as the leader of the Riverlands. His disappointment in Jaime Lannister is a recurring theme in the show, especially when it comes to the political and personal conflicts that arise between their characters. Let's explore the context and reasons for why the Blackfish felt disappointed in Jaime.

Background and Early Relations

When Jaime was young, his father took him to Riverrun with the idea of discussing a possible match between Jaime and Lysa Tully. As a young boy, Jaime was more than just indifferent to Lysa. Instead, he was a fan of the legendary Blackfish, a symbol of valor and righteousness in the war of the Nine-Penny Kings. The Blackfish was known for his outstanding swordsmanship and his unwavering loyalty to the realm, traits that made him a hero to young Jamie.

The Blackfish saw in young Jaime the potential to become an upgrade to his own skills and reputation. He believed that Jaime, being a more prestigious Knight of the King’s Guard (KG) than the Blackfish himself, would make him proud. However, the journey of Jaime Lannister took a dark turn after that. He committed the unworthy act of killing King Aerys Targaryen, an act that tainted his legacy and betrayed the trust of his kingdom.

Context of Disappointment

The Blackfish's disappointment in Jaime can be seen more as a sarcastic remark rather than a declaration of deep-seated regret. This sentiment is deeply rooted in the complex power dynamics and moral dilemmas of the Game of Thrones world. Jaime is bound by a vow to Catelyn Tully, which prevents him from taking up arms against her family, but he is also dealing with the orders he receives from his superiors.

The Blackfish views Jaime with similar condescension as Ned Stark did, who also recognized Jaime's potential early on but saw him fall from grace. This condescension is not just a criticism of Jaime's actions but also a reflection of the Blackfish’s belief in the contrast between myth and reality. Like Oberyn Martell in his dialogue with Tyrion Lannister, the Blackfish often sees the world through the lens of mythical expectations, falling short of the grand narratives and heroic ideals they represent.

Myth and Reality in Westeros

The disappointment expressed by the Blackfish is emblematic of a larger theme in the Game of Thrones series: the gap between the myths and legends that shape Westerosi society and the reality of the characters and events within it. The Blackfish's disappointment is not just a personal opinion but a broader commentary on the futility of seeking perfection or the impossible in a world filled with deceit, power, and unwavering ambitions.

Just like how Oberyn Martell was disappointed to find Tyrion not the monster he imagined, the Blackfish exemplifies the disillusionment that often comes from holding onto illusory figures of hope. The series often portrays how memory and perception can be molds of truth, showing that what we believe to be real may be a product of our desires or fears rather than the facts.

Conclusion: The Blackfish's disappointment in Jaime Lannister is a multifaceted expression that encapsulates the complexities of honor, loyalty, and the enduring power of myths in the world of Game of Thrones. It serves as a reminder that the heroes and monsters we hold in our narratives are often made of the same flawed materials as the very people we aspire to or fear them to be.