Key Points
- Episode 2 highlights Dunk’s struggle to prove his knighthood and personal worth.
- Encounters with Targaryens and Kingsguard test his humility and resolve.
- Dunk adopts a new sigil painted by Tanselle, symbolizing his independent identity.
- Emotional sacrifice comes as Dunk sells one of Ser Arlan’s horses to fund his journey.
- The episode closes with Dunk confronting self-doubt before the joust, determined to prove himself.
Dunk’s Story and the Ashford Grounds
Episode 2 of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms opens with Dunk recalling the life of his mentor, Ser Arlan of Pennytree, a knight remembered for his stubborn resolve. Sharing the tale with Leo “Longthorn” Tyrell, Dunk quickly realizes that Ser Arlan’s name has faded from memory, underscoring his own challenge: to prove his knighthood and establish his legacy.
At Ashford Meadow, Targaryen banners arrive as Egg returns to camp. Dunk steps closer to the action, where Baelor Targaryen is warmly received. Aerion Targaryen, however, mistakes Dunk for a servant. Dunk’s calm handling of Aerion’s horse demonstrates his quiet capability, reinforcing the episode’s theme of humility over reputation.
Kindness Among Knights and Dangerous Eavesdropping
Dunk encounters Kingsguard members Ser Roland Crakehall and Ser Donnel of Duskendale, who treat him with rare kindness. Their conversation touches on humble origins, reminding Dunk that nobility is not the only path to knighthood.
Trouble arises when Dunk overhears Targaryen discussions about missing princes Daron and Aegon. Discovered, he asks for validation of his knighthood. Baelor Targaryen recalls Ser Arlan and, convinced by Dunk’s account, vouches for him—an important turning point in Dunk’s journey.
A New Sigil and Small Moments of Levity
Though cleared to compete, Dunk is told to repaint his shield, as he has no blood claim to Ser Arlan’s sigil. He turns to Tanselle, who designs a new emblem: an elm tree with a shooting star. The moment marks Dunk’s step toward forging his own identity.
Meanwhile, Dunk and Egg share lighthearted exchanges about their shortcomings, adding warmth and humor to the episode.
Tests of Strength and Sacrifice
Dunk’s strength is tested in a tug-of-war against Lyonel Baratheon’s call to war, which his team wins. Later, he meets Steely Pate, the local blacksmith. Without coin, Dunk sells one of Ser Arlan’s horses—a quietly emotional sacrifice underscored by his plea that the animal be treated kindly.
Doubt Before the Joust
As night falls, Dunk watches skilled jousters and feels the weight of self-doubt. Rumors of Ser Arlan’s reputation as a poor knight linger, casting shadows over Dunk’s confidence. Yet the episode closes with Dunk resolved to prove those doubts wrong, standing firm in his determination to define his knighthood on his own terms.
What Happens Next?
Episode 2 sets the stage for Dunk’s upcoming joust, where his resolve will be tested against seasoned knights. With his new sigil, sacrifices made, and doubts acknowledged, Dunk’s journey continues to be one of identity, resilience, and the pursuit of honor.
