The Martells in Game of Thrones
The House of Martell, or the House Martell of Sunspear, is one of the Great Houses of Westeros in the fantasy television show, “Game of Thrones”
Origins
The Martells, like the other Great Houses, trace their descent to the First Men of Westeros.They, like many other houses, claim an ancestry that connects them with the legendary hero, Azor Ahai.
The Martells of Targaryen times were one of the great warrior houses of Dorne, which was one of the last vestiges of the First Men’s kingdoms to hold out against the Targaryen conquest.
Role in Westeros
The Martells of Game of Thrones have a significant role in Westeros and its politics. They are the ruling power in Dorne, one of seven major regions in Westeros.
Their Primarchs and Dornish military forces have often been used as a check and counterbalance to the power struggles between the great Houses of the Seven Kingdoms like the Starks, Lannisters and Tyrells.
Famous Members of the House
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- Oberyn Martell: A hot-headed prince, Oberyn tried to avenge his sister’s death by participating in a trial by combat. Despite his ferocity, he eventually lost the fight. His death was a major turning point in the series.
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- Ellaria Sand: Oberyn’s partner, Ellaria was displeased with the ruling of the Seven Kingdoms. She took part in a coup against the crown and served as a major antagonist in the season.
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- Doran Martell: Doran was Oberyn’s brother and the ruling lord of Dorne. He sought to maintain peaceful ties with the other Great Houses and sided with the Targaryens during the civil war. He was eventually killed by Ellaria.
Traditions
The Martells have some rather unique traditions and beliefs. Fittingly for a House that worships the sun, the Martells adhere to a concept called “the right of the first night,” which allows any Dornishman to take a woman’s virginity if no man from her own house has taken it before her.
The Martells also practice “trial by combat” – the practice of belligerents fighting each other in order to settle a dispute. This practice was famously seen in the series when a trial by combat was ordered to settle a dispute between Ser Gregor Clegane and Prince Oberyn.
Legacy
The Martells have played a major role in the series, and their presence will continue to shape the events that take place in Westeros. As one of the Great Houses, the Martells will continue to influence the course of events in the Seven Kingdoms.
Despite their tumultuous history, the Martells are a fierce House, with a proud and unique culture. Its members are not afraid to stand up for what they believe in and will fight for what’s right. After all, you know what they say, “Unbowed, Unbent, Unbroken.”
