Dunk’s Dilemma: The Knight or Not to Knight?

Ah, the vast universe of George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire. It’s like the universe’s red-headed stepchild—full of mysteries, unanswered questions, and plot holes big enough to drive a dragon through. While we may dive deep into the chaotic theories of shows like Game of Thrones (remember R + L = J? Classic!), the charming yet smaller scale of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms leaves us pondering a different kind of mystery. And that mystery? Our man Ser Duncan the Tall, or as we lovingly call him, Dunk!

Is Dunk a Knight or Just Really Tall?

Now, don’t trap yourself in a rabbit hole trying to figure out if Dunk is actually related to the fabulous Brienne of Tarth (which, by the way, seems to be a done deal). The real burning question here is: Is Dunk even a knight? The series kicks off with the unfortunate death of Ser Arlan of Pennytree, Dunk’s knightly alma mater. Dunk, ever the optimist, quickly decides to don the title of knight himself. However, we never get to see the precious knighting ceremony that would seal the deal. Did it happen? Did it not? That’s the million-dollar question, and it seems George himself with his mighty pen has requested that the answer remain delightfully vague.

The Gaping Hole of Ambiguity

According to the show’s master puppeteer, Ira Parker, “There is no confirmation, one way or the other, coming out of that scene.” Yeah, you heard it right. Basically, we’re left in the dark, flicking through a book marked *choose your own adventure*. Dunk claims he was knighted by Ser Arlan but provides about as much proof as a cat at a dog show. He’s yanked away before he can knight Raymun Fossoway, which leaves everyone wondering not just whether he’s a legit knight, but if he even has the chops to knight anyone at all! Talk about dodging the question.

What Happened in That Flashback?

In a season finale flashback that feels like a bad soap opera twist, we see Dunk question the dying Ser Arlan about the lack of a knighthood. But Ser Arlan keeps mum like someone trying to avoid the spoilers of their latest binge-watch. But wait! This isn’t the end of Arlan’s story. There’s a glimmer of hope that he knighted Dunk later on—perhaps in the time gap after he took his long dirt nap. So, who really knows? It could swing either way, like a drunken knight at a tavern dance-off!

The Wandering Spirit of Knighthood

As Parker puts it, “At that moment, Dunk had never been knighted by Ser Arlan,” which leads us into an existential rabbit hole of sorts. Was Dunk just playing dress-up with a shiny title? Well, here’s the kicker: regardless of his official status, Dunk embodies all the traits that make a true knight. He defends the good folks, supports his pals, and looks out for the little guys in the kingdom. Ceremony or not, his heart is what makes him knightly.

Knighthood: Title or True Essence?

In the end, this journey is less about a fancy title and more about the essence of being a knight. The real question isn’t just if one can earn the title, but can you hold a knightly spirit even if the title never graces your shoulders? Sounds like a riddle wrapped in a mystery wearing a knight’s armor!