The evidence that Knight of the Seven Kingdoms was never knighted
Polygon
by Tasha RobinsonFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The article discusses a key detail about Ser Dunk "the Oaf," a character from George R.R. Martin’s *A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms* and its adaptation in the HBO series: Dunk was never formally knighted. This distinction is significant, as it highlights the nuances of his identity and the implications for his journey within the story.
In the narrative, Dunk's lack of knighthood is tied to a pivotal moment involving Prince Baelor Targaryen, who dies defending him in a trial by combat. Ser Lyonel, a friend of Dunk’s, confronts him about Baelor’s death, arguing that the prince’s involvement was not genuine since his opponents were family members and sworn to protect him. This exchange underscores the ethical complexities surrounding Dunk’s actions and the risks he faced.
The article emphasizes why this matters for fans of gaming and entertainment. Understanding characters like Dunk adds depth to storytelling and gameplay, enriching the narrative experience for players and viewers alike. This detail also raises questions about how character backgrounds influence their arcs in *Westeros* lore.
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Originally published on Polygon on 2/23/2026