The Fate of Ice: From Ancestral Sword to Accursed Blade in the Seven Kingdoms

In the rich tapestry of the A Song of Ice and Fire series, the swords Ice and Widows Wail hold significant historical and emotional weight. The saga, set in the fictional world of Westeros, is a narrative of power, honor, and the complex dynamics of political intrigue. This article delves into the origins, transformations, and fates of these iconic Valyrian steel swords, exploring the motivations and actions of the key characters who played a part in their journey.

Ice: Ancestral Sword of House Stark

Ice, originally an ancestral sword of House Stark, was a massive greatsword crafted from the rare Valyrian steel. Weighing over a hundred pounds, this sword was wielded by Eddard Stark throughout his illustrious career, symbolizing the power and legacy of House Stark. His dedication to virtue and valor earned him the trust and admiration of his people, making the Ice sword more than just a weapon but a symbol of his family’s honor and strength.

The Reforging of Ice

However, the end of Eddard Stark's life ushered in a tumultuous period for House Stark. After his execution, the Lannister forces, led by Tywin Lannister, seized Ice and had it reforged. By melting down the massive greatsword, Tywin transformed it into two smaller swords, Oathkeeper and Widows Wail. This act was not only a symbol of Lannister dominance but also a deliberate attempt to weaken House Stark. Tywin's purported justification, "finders keepers," shows his self-serving and vicious nature as he sought to eliminate a potential threat to his power and the Lannister legacy.

Oathkeeper: A Symbol of Protection

Oathkeeper was presented to Brienne of Tarth as a token of gratitude for her service to Sansa Stark. This sword, crafted from the same Valyrian steel, represented a renewed commitment to protect Sansa. Brienne, known for her unwavering honor and strength, named the sword Oathkeeper, highlighting her pledge to fulfill her oath even after the original owner's passing. This sword became a focal point for Brienne's quest to protect Sansa and restore the Stark honor.

Widows Wail: A Symbol of Tyranny

Widows Wail was given to Joffrey Baratheon as a wedding gift. This sword, with its vulva-like red gem in the guard, symbolized Joffrey's perverse pleasure in the suffering of others. Joffrey frequently used Widows Wail to perpetrate cruelties, often in public settings to show off his power. This sword became a symbol of tyranny and the Lannister family's ruthless control over the Seven Kingdoms.

The Final Fate of the Swords

The later fates of Widows Wail and Oathkeeper are shrouded in mystery. In the books, Widows Wail was last seen with Tommen Baratheon, who succeeded his brother Joffrey as king. It is unclear whether the sword was used by Tommen or if it remained meaningless to him. Meanwhile, Oathkeeper remained in Brienne's possession, becoming a symbol of her commitment to protect Sansa and honor the Stark legacy.

Analysis: The Parable of the Swords

The narratives of Ice and its descendants offer a poignant analysis of power, legacy, and justice in the world of Westeros. The deliberate reforging of Ice by Tywin Lannister represents theLannisters' calculating and ruthless approach to power, while the eventual dissipation and uncertainty of Widows Wail and Oathkeeper illustrate the vagaries of fate and the enduring influence of honor and justice.

Ultimately, the fate of these swords reflects the overarching theme of the series: the complexity of power and the enduring nature of noble virtues. The Lannisters' actions in seizing and reforging Ice highlight their lack of honor and integrity, while the eventual unceremonious disposal or proper use of Widows Wail and Oathkeeper symbolize the potential for redemption and the restoration of justice.

As the story of Westeros continues, the fates of Ice and its descendants remain a testament to the enduring power of honor, justice, and the relentless pursuit of truth.