Who is Ser Duncan the Tall?

Ser Duncan the Tall is a legendary figure in Westerosi history. His story is the focus of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, an upcoming HBO series based on George R.R. Martin’s Tales of Dunk and Egg novellas. Fans of Game of Thrones will soon see this iconic character brought to life on screen.

Quick details

Who was Ser Duncan the Tall?

Credits: HBO

Ser Duncan the Tall was a legendary knight who rose from humble beginnings in Flea Bottom. He became a hedge knight, then Lord Commander of the Kingsguard. Duncan was known for his exceptional height, nearly seven feet tall, and his close friendship with King Aegon V Targaryen.

Quick facts

1. Duncan was born in Flea Bottom, the poorest slum in King’s Landing. (Books)
2. Ser Arlan of Pennytree knighted him at age 16. (Books)
3. Duncan met Prince Aegon Targaryen, who became his squire. (Books)
4. He participated in the trial of seven at Ashford Tourney. (Books)
5. Duncan eventually became Lord Commander of the Kingsguard. (Books)

In A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms

Credits: HBO

Duncan’s background and character

In A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, Duncan is portrayed as a young hedge knight. Peter Claffey plays the role of Ser Duncan the Tall in the series. The show depicts Duncan as humble, courageous, and naïve. He is also perceptive and thoughtful, qualities that serve him well in his adventures. Duncan’s physical appearance is a key aspect of his character. He stands at least 6’4″ (193cm) tall, living up to his nickname “the Tall”. His impressive stature and physical strength make him a formidable presence. The series highlights Duncan’s journey from a lowborn boy to a respected knight. It emphasizes his humble origins in Flea Bottom and his rise through skill and honor.

Duncan’s relationship with Egg

A central focus of the series is Duncan’s relationship with his squire, Egg. Egg is actually Prince Aegon Targaryen in disguise, a fact initially unknown to Duncan. The show explores their growing friendship and adventures together. It portrays Duncan as a mentor figure to Egg, teaching him about knighthood and the realities of life outside the royal court. Their relationship forms the story’s heart, showcasing themes of loyalty, friendship, and the blurring of class boundaries. The series depicts their travels across Westeros, serving various lords and encountering different challenges. These experiences shape both characters and deepen their bond.

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In The Tales of Dunk and Egg

The Hedge Knight (Credits: Mike S. Miller)

The Hedge Knight

The Hedge Knight introduces Ser Duncan the Tall as he embarks on his knightly career. After his master’s death, Duncan decides to compete in the Ashford Tourney. He meets Prince Aegon, disguised as “Egg”, who becomes his squire. At the tourney, Duncan defends a puppeteer from Prince Aerion Brightflame’s cruelty. This leads to a trial by seven, where Duncan must find champions to fight for him. The event showcases Duncan’s honor and the respect he earns from both nobles and commoners. It also establishes his connection to the Targaryen royal family. The story ends with Duncan and Egg continuing their travels, rejecting a position at Summerhall Castle.

The Sworn Sword

The Sworn Sword follows Duncan and Egg’s adventures in service to Ser Eustace Osgrey. They become involved in a conflict between Ser Eustace and Lady Rohanne Webber of Coldmoat. Duncan learns about the complex political history of the region, including the Blackfyre Rebellions. He faces a moral dilemma when he discovers Ser Eustace’s past allegiances. The story culminates in a trial by combat where Duncan defeats Lady Rohanne’s champion. This tale explores themes of loyalty, duty, and the complexities of Westerosi politics. It also further develops Duncan’s character and his relationship with Egg.

The Mystery Knight

The Mystery Knight sees Duncan and Egg attend a wedding at Whitewalls. They encounter a mysterious knight, John the Fiddler, who invites them to a tourney. Duncan enters the tournament as the Gallows Knight. He uncovers a plot involving the Blackfyre pretenders to the Iron Throne. The story reveals more about the political tensions in Westeros and the ongoing threat of rebellion. Duncan’s actions help thwart the Second Blackfyre Rebellion.

Duncan’s later years

The Tales of Dunk and Egg provide glimpses of Duncan’s future. He eventually joins the Kingsguard when Egg becomes King Aegon V Targaryen. Duncan plays a significant role in quelling rebellions and maintaining peace in the realm. He becomes Lord Commander of the Kingsguard by 253 AC. Duncan’s life ends tragically at the Tragedy of Summerhall in 259 AC. He dies trying to save others from the fire, showcasing his heroism until the very end. His legacy lives on in the stories and songs of Westeros, remembered as a true knight and loyal friend to King Aegon V.

Read More: Steve Conrad to write Game of Thrones’ prequel series Tales of Dunk and Egg

Quotes

“Dunk the lunk, thick as a castle wall.” – Duncan’s self-deprecating phrase

“I know a story about a boy who hated stories. I could tell you about Ser Duncan The Tall, those were always your favorites.” – Old Nan to Bran Stark in Game of Thrones.

Quick answers

Who was Ser Duncan the Tall?

Ser Duncan the Tall was a legendary knight who rose from humble beginnings to become Lord Commander of the Kingsguard under King Aegon V Targaryen. (Books)

What is Duncan’s relationship with Egg?

Egg, actually Prince Aegon Targaryen, becomes Duncan’s squire. Their friendship is central to their adventures and shapes both characters. (Books)

What are the main events in Duncan’s life?

Key events include the Ashford Tourney, his service to Ser Eustace Osgrey, uncovering the Second Blackfyre Rebellion, joining the Kingsguard, and his death at Summerhall. (Books)

How does Duncan die?

Duncan dies heroically during the Tragedy of Summerhall in 259 AC, trying to save others from the fire. (Books)

Who plays Ser Duncan the Tall in A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms?

Peter Claffey plays the role of Ser Duncan the Tall in the HBO series A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. (Show)

Compilation

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms (A Song of Ice and Fire)

$18.00 $13.22

Taking place nearly a century before the events of A Game of Thrones, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms compiles the first three official prequel novellas to George R. R. Martin’s ongoing masterwork, A Song of Ice and Fire.

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12/02/2024 07:27 pm GMT