Who is the old guy in love with Daenerys?
For fans of HBO's epic fantasy series, Game of Thrones, the question "Who is the old guy in love with Daenerys?" often refers to one particularly prominent and influential character: Ser Jorah Mormont. While "love" in the context of Westeros and Essos can be a complex and often dangerous emotion, Jorah's feelings for Daenerys Targaryen were a consistent and deeply felt thread throughout the series.
Ser Jorah Mormont: A Loyal Knight and Devoted Follower
Ser Jorah Mormont was a knight from the North, a former lord of Bear Island. He was initially exiled from Westeros for illegal trading of poachers, a transgression that brought him shame and a loss of status. It was in the Free Cities across the Narrow Sea that he first encountered Daenerys Targaryen, the last known surviving member of the Targaryen dynasty, who was living in exile and seeking to reclaim the Iron Throne.
Jorah's Initial Motivations and Shifting Allegiances
When Jorah first met Daenerys, his motivations were not entirely pure. He was a spy for King Robert Baratheon, tasked with reporting on Daenerys's activities. He believed he could earn a pardon and return to Westeros by betraying her. However, as he spent time in her presence, witnessing her courage, her ambition, and her growing power, his feelings began to change dramatically.
The Growth of Unrequited Love
Jorah became Daenerys's most trusted advisor and protector. He was with her through her darkest hours, from her marriage to Khal Drogo and the birth of her dragons, to her struggles for power and her arduous journey across Essos. His loyalty was unwavering, and his devotion deepened into a profound, albeit unrequited, love. He never openly declared his love for her in a way that demanded reciprocity, but his actions spoke volumes.
- He consistently put Daenerys's safety and well-being above his own.
- He advised her with wisdom and foresight, often acting as her moral compass.
- He fought valiantly for her cause, risking his life on numerous occasions.
- He endured great personal hardship and danger to remain by her side.
Key Moments Highlighting Jorah's Affection
Several pivotal moments in the series illustrate the depth of Jorah's feelings:
- When Daenerys was poisoned in the fighting pits of Meereen, Jorah was the one who tackled the assailant and sustained a severe injury.
- Despite being banished by Daenerys for spying, he returned, risking immediate execution, to rescue her from the Sons of the Harpy.
- Even when Daenerys became involved with Daario Naharis, Jorah remained a constant, quietly observing and waiting.
- In the final season, his sacrifice to save Daenerys from the Night King's army was the ultimate testament to his enduring love and loyalty. He died in her arms, a fulfilled protector.
The Nature of Jorah's Love
Jorah's love for Daenerys was characterized by a deep sense of duty, admiration, and a paternalistic protectiveness. It was a love that transcended romantic desire, evolving into an all-consuming commitment to her destiny and her success. He saw her as a queen destined for greatness and believed in her vision for a better world, even when others doubted her.
While there were other men in Daenerys's life, such as Hizdahr zo Loraq and Daario Naharis, and eventually Jon Snow, none offered the same unwavering, long-standing, and selfless devotion as Ser Jorah Mormont. He was, without question, the "old guy" who was profoundly in love with Daenerys Targaryen.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Jorah Mormont first meet Daenerys?
Ser Jorah Mormont first encountered Daenerys Targaryen in the Free City of Pentos. He was living in exile from Westeros and initially approached her as a spy for King Robert Baratheon, seeking a pardon for his past crimes. However, his initial mission quickly evolved as he became impressed by Daenerys's character and ambitions.
Why did Jorah Mormont remain loyal to Daenerys even after she exiled him?
Jorah's loyalty stemmed from a deep and genuine love for Daenerys that grew over time. Despite being banished for his past espionage, he couldn't bear to be away from her. His return, risking immediate death, demonstrated that his commitment to her and his developing feelings superseded any fear or personal consequences. He believed in her and her cause.
Was Jorah Mormont's love for Daenerys ever reciprocated?
While Daenerys cared deeply for Jorah and considered him one of her most loyal and trusted companions, her romantic feelings were not directed towards him in the same way. She formed romantic attachments with other individuals throughout the series, and Jorah's love remained largely unrequited, though it was always acknowledged and valued by her as a profound friendship and unwavering devotion.
What was the significance of Jorah Mormont's death?
Jorah Mormont's death was highly significant as it was a selfless act of sacrifice. He died defending Daenerys from the Night King's army during the Battle of Winterfell. This ultimate act solidified his lifelong devotion and served as a powerful testament to his love and loyalty. His death deeply affected Daenerys, highlighting the profound impact he had on her life.
