By
| Character | Status | Last Seen | Affiliation | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Benjen Stark | Deceased | Season 7, Episode 6 | Night’s Watch, Three-Eyed Raven | Key mystery throughout the series |
The Mystery of Uncle Benjen
Throughout much of the Game of Thrones series, the fate of Benjen Stark, the younger brother of Eddard Stark, remained a mystery. As a member of the Night’s Watch, Benjen ventured beyond the Wall on a ranging mission and never returned, leaving fans to speculate about what happened to him.
Benjen’s Role in the Night’s Watch
Benjen Stark was a dedicated member of the Night’s Watch, having joined the order at a young age. He served as the First Ranger, a position of great responsibility that involved leading scouting missions beyond the Wall to gather intelligence on potential threats.
Benjen’s Disappearance
In Season 1, Benjen embarked on a ranging mission beyond the Wall but failed to return. His disappearance sparked numerous theories among fans, with many speculating that he may have fallen victim to the White Walkers or other dangers that lurk in the far north.
The Revelation of Benjen’s Fate
It wasn’t until Season 6 that viewers finally learned what happened to Benjen. In a shocking revelation, it was discovered that Benjen had indeed encountered the White Walkers during his ranging mission. However, he was saved from being turned into a wight by the Children of the Forest, who used dragonglass to halt the process of his transformation.
Benjen’s New Role as Coldhands
Having been partially transformed by the White Walkers, Benjen took on a new identity as Coldhands, a mysterious figure who aids Bran Stark and Meera Reed in their journey beyond the Wall. Coldhands possesses unique abilities, such as resistance to the cold and the power to control ravens.
Benjen’s Final Sacrifice
In Season 7, Benjen makes his final appearance in the series when he comes to the rescue of Jon Snow beyond the Wall. Benjen sacrifices himself to save Jon from the army of the dead, allowing him to escape on horseback while he stays behind to fight off the wights.
FAQs
- Q: Is Benjen Stark really dead?
- A: Yes, Benjen Stark is presumed dead after his final appearance in Season 7, where he sacrificed himself to save Jon Snow from the army of the dead.
- Q: What happened to Benjen beyond the Wall?
- A: Benjen was attacked by White Walkers during his ranging mission but was saved by the Children of the Forest, who used dragonglass to prevent him from turning into a wight. He then took on the identity of Coldhands.
- Q: Why did Benjen become Coldhands?
- A: The Children of the Forest used ancient magic to halt Benjen’s transformation into a wight, which resulted in him becoming Coldhands, a being with unique abilities who aids Bran Stark and Meera Reed.
Conclusion
The mystery surrounding Uncle Benjen’s fate was a significant plotline throughout the Game of Thrones series. While his ultimate demise was tragic, his sacrifice played a crucial role in the story’s progression and added depth to the lore of the Night’s Watch and the threats that exist beyond the Wall.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on the events depicted in the Game of Thrones television series and may differ from the book series, A Song of Ice and Fire, by George R. R. Martin.