TransWikia.com

What are ninth-born sons?

Science Fiction & Fantasy Asked by Kidus on July 23, 2021

In the episode Breaker of Chains (Season 4, Episode 3) of Game of Thrones, one of the Night’s Watch men mentions “ninth-born son” when listing the crimes of his new recruits.

“Raper. Horse thief. Ninth-born son. Raper. Thief. Thief and raper.”

What is a ninth-born son? and is it a crime? If so, why?

2 Answers

It's not a crime, it just means what it says: a ninth born son. Therefore, a son from a large family will inherit nothing. No opportunities, even if the son is from a noble house. And if it's a son from commoners, it's possible that they have no choice, as there isn't enough food. Keep in mind that (at least in the North), taking the black by yourself is seen as an honorable career choice.

Correct answer by Kepotx on July 23, 2021

What is a ninth-born son?

Exactly what it says on the tin the ninth born son of someone. They are most likely from some noble House instead of low born but the quote doesn't really give anything away either way.

Is it a crime?

No, only the first born son in a House in Westeros will inherit and become Lord, the others must find something else to do. This related question discusses it in more detail but in short the options are.

  • Night's Watch
  • Maester
  • Septon
  • Knight
  • Kingsguard

So out of those options why would someone choose the Night's Watch? @Aegon has a good answer for that here so I won't repeat too much. Another reason though is it was once seen as an honourable choice to serve in the Watch, it's only really in recent years that's changed though some people like Jon Snow and some other high born sons still think it's an honourable thing to do.

Answered by TheLethalCarrot on July 23, 2021

Add your own answers!

Ask a Question

Get help from others!

© 2024 TransWikia.com. All rights reserved. Sites we Love: PCI Database, UKBizDB, Menu Kuliner, Sharing RPP