A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms Season 1 Finale Review: Dunk & Egg Ride On

The season finale of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, titled “The Morrow,” finds Dunk grappling with the aftermath of Prince Baelor’s death and questioning his own worthiness. The episode centers on Dunk’s survivor’s guilt, a feeling compounded by his humble origins as smallfolk from Flea Bottom, leading him to believe he was spared for a reason while a prince was not.

A Weighty Burden

Dunk’s internal struggle is challenged by Ser Lyonel Baratheon, who points out the inherent risk faced by Dunk and his fellow knights in protecting the Targaryen prince. Lyonel’s blunt assessment – “And the gods don’t favor a fraud” – underscores the realities of their situation. The episode doesn’t shy away from the emotional toll of conflict, even as it intersperses moments of levity, such as scenes involving Ser Lyonel and Raymun Fossoway.

Did You Know? Ser Arlan of Pennytree, like Prince Baelor, previously showed Dunk kindness and fought alongside him.

A Question of Influence

Despite his grief, Dunk is presented with an opportunity to shape the future. Prince Daeron suggests that even someone like Aerion Targaryen, who descended into cruelty, was once capable of goodness. This realization sparks a desire in Dunk to potentially guide Egg, preventing him from following a similar path. However, Dunk insists on doing so on his own terms, rejecting a formal oath to Prince Maekar and proposing Egg learn through the life of a squire to a hedge knight.

A Father’s Concern

Prince Maekar, portrayed with nuanced emotion by Sam Spruell, initially resists Dunk’s proposal, citing the traditions of the Targaryen bloodline. However, a poignant scene reveals his deep love for Egg. When Maekar discovers Egg at Aerion’s bedside, holding a dagger and seemingly disturbed by his brother’s appearance, he responds with compassion rather than anger, gently comforting his youngest son.

Expert Insight: The scene with Maekar and Egg highlights the complex dynamics within the Targaryen family and the weight of legacy. It demonstrates that even within a lineage known for ambition and power, genuine affection and concern can exist.

An Unconventional Partnership

Egg outmaneuvers both Dunk and his father, falsely claiming Maekar’s blessing to become Dunk’s squire. This sets the stage for their continued adventures together, now free to roam the Nine Kingdoms. The final image of a spectral Ser Arlan riding away symbolizes Dunk’s newfound independence and his emergence as his own knight.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dunk struggling with at the beginning of the episode?

Dunk is wrestling with survivor’s guilt following Prince Baelor’s death, questioning why he was spared while the prince perished.

What does Prince Maekar reveal about Aerion?

Prince Daeron reveals that Aerion was once a good child before becoming cruel, suggesting that nurture plays a role in shaping character.

How does Egg become Dunk’s squire again?

Egg cons Dunk by falsely claiming that Prince Maekar gave him permission to be his squire, a claim that is later revealed to be untrue.

What impact will Dunk’s decision to remain a hedge knight and mentor Egg have on the future of the realm?