Peter Claffey Explains Dunk’s Big Reaction to Baelor Targaryen’s Death on A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms

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Prince Baelor Targaryen (Bertie Carvel) died in Dunk’s (Peter Claffey) arms following the Trial of Seven. He had suffered a severe head injury from Maekar (Sam Spruell), and his helmet was the only thing that kept him alive for as long as it did. Dunk was heartbroken by Baelor’s death, feeling deeply indebted to the prince for sacrificing himself to participate in the trial.

Everyone, including Ser Arlan, kept saying Baelor would improve things and bring a brighter future to Westeros. Dunk feels deeply responsible because he believes his involvement led to Baelor fighting – and dying – for a cause that ultimately failed. The people of Ashford feel they were robbed of a great king because of a foolish knight who should have been severely punished, and now they fear a dark age is coming. Things are likely to get even worse with the drought and the spread of the Great Spring Sickness.

Claffey believes Dunk found peace with the natural death of Ser Arlan. He described it as a gentle farewell, noting that Dunk properly honored Ser Arlan with a burial and took care of his horses without feeling any remorse. However, Dunk still feels a sense of loss, believing Ser Arlan had the potential to be a great king.

George R. R. Martin Cites Baelor’s Death as a Cataclysmic Event

Many viewers, like Claffey, believe Baelor’s death marks a dark turning point in the story of Westeros. Author George R.R. Martin himself has discussed this, recalling a fan question about pivotal moments in Westeros’ history. He identified Baelor’s death as one such moment, suggesting Baelor would have been a capable and effective ruler. Martin pondered how different things might have been if Baelor hadn’t died defending a relatively unimportant knight.

While A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms doesn’t directly address the consequences of Baelor’s death, George R.R. Martin’s other books reveal that several Targaryens die in the years that follow. This eventually leads to Aegon Targaryen, known as Egg, becoming king. Egg’s lineage ultimately results in the birth of a key figure who triggers the downfall of the Targaryen dynasty, setting the stage for Daenerys Targaryen’s story in Game of Thrones. So, even though A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms intentionally avoids mentioning Game of Thrones, it laid the groundwork for the popular series.

Okay, so House of the Dragon – which I always think of as A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms – is now streaming on HBO Max, which is great news! And even better? They’re already working on a second season. I’m definitely excited to see where they take it next.

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2026-02-23 19:36