Who Gave Jon Snow His Sword? Unraveling the Mystery of Longclaw
One of the most iconic symbols associated with Jon Snow, the brooding hero of George R.R. Martin’s *A Song of Ice and Fire* and the HBO series *Game of Thrones*, is his sword, Longclaw. But who gave Jon Snow his sword, and what is the significance behind this gift? Understanding the origins of Longclaw reveals important aspects of Jon Snow’s character development and his connection to the Night’s Watch.
The Gifting of Longclaw: A Reward for Bravery
The answer to the question, who gave Jon Snow his sword, is simple: Lord Commander Jeor Mormont of the Night’s Watch. Mormont, a seasoned warrior and a respected leader, recognized Jon Snow’s potential and valor. However, the circumstances surrounding the gift are more complex than a mere act of generosity. It stemmed from a life-saving event and a deep-seated respect that Mormont developed for the young Snow.
Saving Lord Commander Mormont
The pivotal moment that led to Jon receiving Longclaw occurred when Jon saved Lord Commander Mormont from a wight. A wight, a reanimated corpse controlled by the White Walkers, attacked Mormont in his chambers. Jon, acting swiftly and courageously, intervened and managed to kill the wight, preventing it from harming Mormont further. This act of bravery impressed Mormont deeply and cemented his belief in Jon’s capabilities.
Longclaw: A Valyrian Steel Sword with a Storied History
Longclaw is no ordinary weapon. It is a Valyrian steel sword, an ancient and incredibly strong type of steel forged in the Freehold of Valyria. Valyrian steel is known for its sharpness, lightness, and distinctive rippled pattern. Swords made from Valyrian steel are incredibly rare and valuable, making Longclaw a significant heirloom. The question of who gave Jon Snow his sword becomes even more poignant when considering the sword’s lineage.
The Mormont Family Heirloom
Longclaw was originally the ancestral sword of House Mormont, a noble house from Bear Island in the North. It had been passed down through generations of Mormonts. Jeor Mormont, before joining the Night’s Watch, was the Lord of Bear Island. He relinquished his title to his son, Jorah Mormont. However, Jorah disgraced the family name by selling poachers into slavery to pay off debts and subsequently fled into exile. This act of dishonor prompted Jeor to take the sword with him to the Night’s Watch, effectively removing it from Jorah’s reach.
Modifications to the Sword
Before gifting Longclaw to Jon Snow, Mormont had the pommel reshaped. The original pommel, which featured a bear representing House Mormont, was replaced with a direwolf, the sigil of House Stark, to honor Jon’s lineage. This modification symbolized Jon’s place and signaled Mormont’s acknowledgement of Jon’s Stark heritage. The direwolf pommel served as a constant reminder to Jon of his family and his responsibilities.
The Significance of the Gift
The act of who gave Jon Snow his sword is more than just a reward for saving a life; it represents a passing of responsibility and a recognition of Jon’s inherent qualities. Mormont saw in Jon a potential leader, a man of honor, and a skilled warrior. By gifting Longclaw, Mormont was entrusting Jon with a piece of his family’s history and empowering him to fulfill his destiny.
A Symbol of Trust and Leadership
Longclaw became a symbol of the trust Mormont placed in Jon. It represented the expectation that Jon would uphold the values of the Night’s Watch and defend the realm against the threats beyond the Wall. The sword served as a constant reminder of Jon’s duty and the sacrifices required of him.
Connection to Valyrian Steel
Owning a Valyrian steel sword gave Jon a significant advantage in battle. Valyrian steel is one of the few materials capable of killing White Walkers, making Longclaw an invaluable weapon in the fight against the undead army. This connection to Valyrian steel further solidified Jon’s role as a key player in the war for the survival of Westeros. [See also: The History of Valyrian Steel]
Jon Snow’s Journey with Longclaw
Throughout the series, Longclaw remains Jon Snow’s primary weapon. He wields it with skill and courage in countless battles, from skirmishes with wildlings to the epic clashes against the White Walkers. The sword becomes an extension of himself, a symbol of his strength and resolve.
Battles and Victories
Longclaw played a crucial role in many of Jon’s victories. He used it to defend the Wall, fight off wildling raiders, and ultimately defeat the Night King. The sword became synonymous with Jon’s bravery and his unwavering commitment to protecting the realm. Each swing of Longclaw was a testament to the legacy of who gave Jon Snow his sword and the purpose it represented.
A Reminder of Duty
Even in moments of doubt and despair, Longclaw served as a reminder of Jon’s duty. The weight of the sword in his hand symbolized the burden of leadership and the responsibility he carried to protect the innocent. It was a constant reminder of the sacrifices he had made and the oaths he had sworn.
The Legacy of Longclaw
The story of who gave Jon Snow his sword is a compelling narrative of mentorship, responsibility, and the enduring power of legacy. Longclaw is more than just a weapon; it is a symbol of Jon Snow’s character, his journey, and his ultimate destiny. It highlights the importance of recognizing potential in others and the impact that a single act of generosity can have on the course of history. [See also: The Significance of Swords in Game of Thrones]
A Symbol of Hope
In the grim world of *Game of Thrones*, Longclaw represents a glimmer of hope. It is a symbol of the enduring power of good in the face of overwhelming darkness. The sword’s legacy will continue to resonate with fans long after the series has ended, reminding us of the importance of courage, honor, and the unwavering pursuit of justice.
So, to reiterate, who gave Jon Snow his sword? Lord Commander Jeor Mormont. But the answer is just the beginning of a much larger and more meaningful story.
The Future of Longclaw
While the fate of Westeros has been decided, the legacy of Longclaw remains. The sword has witnessed countless battles, served as a symbol of hope, and ultimately played a crucial role in saving the realm from the White Walkers. Whether it remains with Jon Snow or is passed on to another worthy warrior, Longclaw will forever be remembered as a symbol of courage, honor, and the enduring spirit of the North. The tale of who gave Jon Snow his sword will continue to be told, inspiring generations to come. [See also: The Most Powerful Weapons in Game of Thrones]
