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One key distinction separating The Lord of the Rings and GOT can be highlighted by a famous remark from the GOT author. “What was Aragorn’s tax policy?” Indeed, the King of Gondor reigned for 100 years after the conclusion of J.R.R. Tolkien’s novels, but the details of his rule remain vague. This type of inquiry fuels Martin’s own fantasy world, often plunging his protagonists into ethical gray areas in a way Aragorn never would.

Delving into Knighthood in Two Fantasy Worlds

HBO’s next Game of Thrones spinoff, The Hedge Knight, will delve into these complexities through the fan-favorite story of Dunk (the actor) and Aegon Targaryen (the young star). They encounter a series of perilous adventures in an age when the Targaryen line still holds the throne but their mighty beasts have died out. During a comic con discussion, the actor commented on one major contrast between Game of Thrones and LOTR: the very definition of knighthood.

“This world that George has created, there are a lot more dark and mature subjects that are explored. A lot of betrayal and deceit, and it’s challenging to find your way,” he stated. “For a lot of people in this world, it works; this was true for Petyr Baelish for a considerable period. For a person to have the true chivalric honor in that world is a quality to really look up to, particularly in the world of the Seven Kingdoms. I deeply appreciate Dunk’s need to uphold the morals that chivalry has largely abandoned in Westeros on his quest in Ashford. In my view it takes a lot more to be a warrior than it does in Tolkien’s world.”

Following the discussion, Claffey tried to walk back that comment, concerned it might ignite a conflict between the two fan communities and place him right in the crossfire. Of course, this led to a deeper conversation to further explore his thoughts on how knighthood differs between the universes of Game of Thrones and LOTR.

Clashing Tones in Fictional Realms

According to the star, a significant part of the distinction stems from the contrasting tones between these two legendary fictional settings.

“There is so much more integrity evident [in Tolkien’s world] because of the adult themes in GOT and George’s world,” he explained. “Characters get so far in positions and status by committing hideous things and betraying others, both physically and metaphorically. In the epic series that is LOTR, you witness so much more honor, and other than Morgoth or Sauron, those absolute villains, [LOTR] is a lot more like storybook villainy.”

Instead of thinking knighthood is harder, Claffey believes that in the Seven Kingdoms it’s tougher to maneuver while attempting to remain a decent warrior.

The Burden of Chivalry in Game of Thrones

“A knight with a certain rank must have mental confusion,” he remarked, pointing to the ethically blurring stress that comes from trying to navigate the politics of Westeros from the vantage point of a humble fighter. Viewers have witnessed the pressure of knighthood throughout the franchise, with figures like Ser Criston Cole in House of the Dragon and Jamie Lannister in GOT exploring how people bound by vows are forced to go against their morals, and what it does to them internally.

That said, although serving as a warrior in the Seven Kingdoms may be more difficult than in Middle-earth, Claffey is still willing to admit that his character in A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is no match against the best that LOTR has to offer.

“Aragorn defeats Dunk every time of the week,” Claffey said, “I believe George probably agrees.”