Lore
Who is Gwayne Hightower? Everything you need to know about this House of the Dragon character
From arrogant nobleman to battle-hardened warrior.
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Who is Ser Gwayne Hightower?
Ser Gwayne Hightower is a knight of House Hightower and brother to Queen Alicent. Raised in Oldtown, Gwayne was separated from his family at a young age when they moved to King’s Landing. His character in the show is portrayed as arrogant and outspoken, with a deep loyalty to his family and house.
Quick Facts
- Son of Otto Hightower and brother of Queen Alicent
- Knight of House Hightower
- Participated in the Heir’s Tournament in Season 1
- Plays a significant role in the Green faction’s military campaigns
- Portrayed by Freddie Fox in “House of the Dragon”
- The character undergoes significant development throughout Season 2
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Gwayne Hightower in House of the Dragon
Season 1
Gwayne first appeared in the Heir’s Tournament, where he faced Prince Daemon Targaryen in a joust. Despite initial success, he was ultimately unseated by Daemon’s underhanded tactics.
Season 2
Season 2 has seen Gwayne take on a much more prominent role:
- Arrives in King’s Landing at Alicent’s request
- Joins Ser Criston Cole’s military campaign, initially showing disdain for Cole’s leadership
- Survives a close encounter with Baela Targaryen’s dragon, Moondancer
- Participates in battles at Duskendale and Rook’s Rest
- Shows growth from an arrogant nobleman to a more empathetic and battle-hardened warrior
Key Moments
Gwayne’s initial arrogance gives way to a more nuanced portrayal as he faces the realities of war. Gwayne’s expanded role has added depth to the Green faction, providing a perspective that bridges the gap between the political machinations in King’s Landing and the brutal realities of the battlefield. His character development has been praised for humanizing the Hightower family and adding complexity to the conflict. Particularly impactful scenes include:
- His confrontation with Ser Criston Cole about Cole’s relationship with Alicent
- His reaction to the devastating battle at Rook’s Rest
- Conversations with Alicent revealing his care for family and concern for his nephew Daeron
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Gwayne Hightower in Fire and Blood
Book Portrayal
In Fire and Blood, Gwayne’s role is less prominent. He is mentioned as participating in tournaments and later serving as second-in-command of the City Watch during the Dance of the Dragons.
Key Differences from the Show
The TV series has significantly expanded Gwayne’s character, giving him a more active role in military campaigns and exploring his relationships with other key characters, particularly Alicent and Criston Cole.
Final Fate in the Books
In “Fire and Blood,” Gwayne meets a tragic end during the fall of King’s Landing to the Blacks, killed by Ser Luthor Largent when attempting to raise the alarm.
Quotes
“Otto Hightower is ever-resourceful. He will send news when there is news to send. You get on with it, don’t you? When there isn’t any choice.”
Quick Answers
Who is Gwayne Hightower?
Gwayne Hightower is Queen Alicent’s brother and a knight of House Hightower. In “House of the Dragon,” he becomes a key military figure for the Green faction during the Dance of the Dragons.
What is Gwayne’s role in Season 2 of “House of the Dragon”?
Gwayne plays a significant role in the Green faction’s military campaigns, participating in key battles and experiencing character growth from an arrogant nobleman to a more empathetic warrior.
How does Gwayne’s portrayal in the show differ from the books?
The show greatly expands Gwayne’s role, giving him more screen time, character development, and involvement in major plot points than his limited mentions in “Fire and Blood.”
Who plays Gwayne Hightower in “House of the Dragon”?
Freddie Fox portrays Gwayne Hightower in “House of the Dragon.”
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