Named swords are important in the world of Game of Thrones, as is Valyrian steel. And the first teaser for Game of Thrones Season 7 suggests that the sword Oathkeeper will play a key role.
In the teaser — which is a scant 12 seconds — the camera zooms in on the hilt of Oathkeeper. Oathkeeper is an interesting choice because if the teaser was going to feature a Valyrian steel sword, Jon Snow’s Longclaw is far more obvious. After all, Jon is the King in the North and newly revealed rightful heir to the Iron Throne as the son of Lyanna Stark and Rhaegar Targaryen.
Recall that Oathkeeper was forged from Ice, Ned Stark’s melted-down sword. Tywin Lannister initially gave it to Jaime. It was very much a “fuck you” to melt a House Stark heirloom down and turn it into a House Lannister heirloom. However, Jaime Lannister turned that sentiment on its head when he gave the sword to Brienne in order to aid her in rescuing Sansa Stark.
Oathkeeper’s presence in the trailer, therefore, suggests two things: on the surface, that Brienne will play a larger role in the season, as it’s her sword. But more significant is the symbolism of an insult from the Lannisters to the Starks turning into an act of love and mercy that’s a boon to the Starks.
Check out the teaser below.
Game of Thrones Season 7 premieres in summer 2017.
