After the dust of battle settles and the great war comes to an end in Game of Thrones, one lingering question remains for many fans: what happens to the Wildlings after the war? These fierce, independent people played a crucial role in the fight against the Night King, but their story doesn’t end with the victory at Winterfell. As the Seven Kingdoms begin to rebuild, the fate of the Free Folk takes a quieter, yet deeply meaningful turn. In this article, we dive into their journey beyond the Wall, their future, and what it all means for the legacy of the North.
The Wildlings Before the War
The Wildlings, also known as Free Folk, are a group of people who live beyond the Wall in the northern regions of Westeros. They are a diverse group of tribes and clans, each with their own customs and traditions. The Wildlings have a nomadic way of life, often moving from place to place in search of food and resources. They are skilled hunters, gatherers, and fighters, and they have a deep connection to the land and the natural world. The Wildlings have a complex relationship with the Night’s Watch, the ancient order tasked with guarding the Wall and protecting the realm from threats beyond it.
The Free Folk, also known as the wildlings, face a harsh and unforgiving environment beyond the Wall. They are forced to contend with extreme cold, scarce resources, and constant threats from the White Walkers and other dangers. Their struggle for survival has led to a strained relationship with the Seven Kingdoms, as they have often clashed with the Night’s Watch and the southern lords. The Free Folk have been perceived as a threat to the stability and safety of the realm, leading to conflicts and mistrust between the two groups. However, it’s important to understand that the Free Folk are a diverse and resilient people, with their own unique culture and traditions, and their struggle for survival is a testament to their resilience and determination.
The Wildlings have faced numerous conflicts that have shaped their existence. One key conflict is the ongoing tension and skirmishes between the Wildlings and the Night’s Watch, particularly in regards to the Wildling raids south of the Wall. These raids have been a source of conflict and animosity between the two groups for centuries. Additionally, the politics of the Wall and the power struggles within the Night’s Watch have also had a significant impact on the Wildlings. The Night’s Watch has historically viewed the Wildlings as a threat, leading to further conflict and hostility between the two groups. Overall, these key conflicts have played a crucial role in shaping the Wildlings’ way of life and their ongoing struggle for survival beyond the Wall.
The War and the Wildlings’ Involvement
The Wildlings played a crucial role in the Battle of Winterfell by forming an alliance with Jon Snow and the North to fight against the Night King and the army of the dead. Their contribution to the fight was significant, as the inclusion of Wildling fighters added to the strength and resilience of the allied forces. Their bravery and combat skills proved to be essential in holding back the relentless onslaught of the White Walkers and wights, ultimately helping to secure the victory for the living.
The immediate aftermath of the war saw the Wildlings facing significant challenges in terms of their survival. Many of their people were lost in the battle against the undead, and their already precarious position in the North was further weakened. However, with the defeat of the Night King and his army, the Wildlings are now in a position to potentially rebuild and strengthen their communities. In the larger context of Westeros’ victory over the undead, the Wildlings’ role in the battle cannot be overlooked. Their bravery and fighting prowess played a crucial part in the success of the living against the Night King. As a result, they have earned a newfound respect and recognition within the realm.
The Leadership of Jon Snow and Its Impact
Jon Snow’s relationship with the Wildlings is a complex and significant aspect of his character. As Lord Commander of the Night’s Watch, Jon took a bold and controversial stance by forming an alliance with the Wildlings in order to defend the North against the impending threat of the White Walkers. This decision was met with resistance from many of his fellow Night’s Watchmen, but Jon believed that uniting with the Wildlings was necessary for the survival of the realm. After his time as Lord Commander, Jon continued to demonstrate his leadership and diplomacy by forging a strong bond with the Wildlings and earning their trust. He played a pivotal role in integrating them into Northern society and advocating for their rights and protection.
Jon Snow’s return to the North and his stance toward the Wildlings in the post-war period was a pivotal moment in the integration of the Wildlings into Westeros. As a leader, Jon played a crucial role in facilitating the coexistence of the Wildlings with the people of the North. His decision to allow the Wildlings to settle in the North and support them in their transition from enemies to allies was a bold and strategic move. Jon’s leadership style and his willingness to mediate between different factions were instrumental in fostering understanding and cooperation between the Wildlings and the Northerners. His actions not only helped to rebuild trust and unity in the aftermath of the war but also set a precedent for peaceful coexistence between the two groups.
The Wildlings’ Transition to Life Beyond the Wall
The integration of the Wildlings into the larger society of Westeros is a complex and multifaceted process. Initially, the Wildlings are met with skepticism, fear, and hostility from the people of Westeros, particularly those from the North. This is due to centuries of animosity and conflict between the Wildlings and the people of the Seven Kingdoms. However, as the threat of the White Walkers and the army of the dead becomes more imminent, the leaders of Westeros realize the need to unite and collaborate with the Wildlings in order to defend the realm. This leads to a gradual shift in attitudes towards the Wildlings, as they are recognized for their bravery and fighting skills.
Tormund Giantsbane is a prominent leader among the Free Folk, known for his bravery and fierce loyalty to his people. As a key figure, he holds a significant role in shaping the future of the Free Folk and their integration into the new world. Tormund’s responsibilities include advocating for the rights and needs of the Free Folk, negotiating with other leaders and factions, and guiding his people towards a peaceful coexistence with the rest of Westeros. His influence can greatly impact the success of the Free Folk’s transition into the new world, as his leadership and diplomacy are crucial in securing a positive future for the Free Folk.
The Wildlings and the Future of the North
The Wildlings, also known as the Free Folk, could potentially form alliances with the Northern houses and other factions by offering their knowledge of the lands beyond the Wall, as well as their skills in surviving and thriving in the harsh environment. Their presence could potentially shift the power dynamics in the North by adding a new and influential player to the political landscape. Their potential role in shaping the future of the North’s governance is significant, as their unique perspective and experiences could provide valuable insights and strategies for dealing with the challenges the region faces. Additionally, their inclusion in decision-making processes could lead to a more inclusive and diverse governance structure in the North.
The Wildlings have historically made economic contributions through their hunting and survival skills, which have allowed them to sustain themselves in the harsh environment beyond the Wall. Their expertise in hunting and gathering has provided an important source of food and resources for their communities. In terms of social integration, marriages and relationships between Wildlings and southerners have led to the birth of children who possess a unique blend of both cultures. This has contributed to a greater understanding and acceptance between the two groups, as well as the exchange of knowledge and skills. However, social integration has also presented challenges, as cultural differences and prejudices have sometimes led to tensions between the Wildlings and the southerners.
The Challenges Ahead
The potential tensions and conflicts between the Wildlings and the people of Westeros stem from their vastly different cultural backgrounds. The Wildlings are a nomadic and independent group, while the people of Westeros are more structured and governed by a feudal system. This can lead to friction in terms of social norms, governance, and even religious beliefs. Cultural differences that might lead to tension include the Wildlings’ lack of trust in authority figures, their focus on survival and self-sufficiency, and their different approach to gender roles and relationships. Overcoming these differences would require open communication, mutual respect, and a willingness to learn and understand each other’s perspectives.
Conclusion
The Free Folk, also known as the Wildlings, face various possibilities in a post-war Westeros. Their ongoing struggle for acceptance within the Seven Kingdoms may continue, but there is also potential for the creation of a new society for the Wildlings. Under the influence of Jon Snow, who has strong ties to the North and the Free Folk, there is hope for a more inclusive and integrated future for the Wildlings in Westeros. In conclusion, the resilience and strength of the Wildlings as a people cannot be overlooked. Their ability to adapt and survive in harsh conditions speaks to their potential to shape the future of the North, both in terms of politics and culture.
