Unveiling the Secrets: The Untold Power of Greenseers in Game of Thrones

Highlights

Magic is not abundant in George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire, but a small percentage of the population can fuse with animals or see the future in their dreams.

The finale of Game of Thrones sparked controversy when Bran the Broken was chosen to rule Westeros, despite his controversial choice, his clairvoyance may bring advantages to the realm.

In Westeros, there exist formidable individuals known as Greenseers, who possess the incredible gift of greensight. This extraordinary ability enables them to perceive past, present, and future occurrences in their dreams. Within the current era, Bran the Broken reigns as the most potent Greenseer.

Magic is sparingly used throughout George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire, playing a crucial role in the story, albeit less frequently than in typical fantasy settings. Unlike the presence of numerous wizards donning tall hats and casting spells, only a small portion of the population possesses the ability to merge with animals or foretell the future through their dreams.

The final season of Game of Thrones made a peculiar choice regarding the occupant of the Iron Throne. Despite the brutal conflict and turmoil that ensued, it is ultimately Bran the Broken who assumes the seat. Tyrion emphasizes the significance of narratives, a theme previously overlooked, and determines that Bran would create the most compelling chronicle. Although this decision lacks reasonable justification, Westeros may indeed benefit from a King capable of glimpsing into the future.

What is a greenseer in Game of Thrones?

Humans arrived in Westeros approximately 12,000 years prior to the events depicted in the books. Prior to their arrival, the Children of the Forest had claimed the land for tens of thousands of years. The Children prospered in the lush woodlands that once covered most of Westeros. When the First Men migrated from Essos, they initially settled in the arid lands that would later become Dorne. They then spread throughout the forests, causing destruction by cutting down trees and desecrating the sacred sites of the Children. This led to conflict between the two groups, eventually resulting in a peace agreement. Unfortunately, the invasion of White Walkers from the North nearly wiped out the Children, leaving only a few survivors. The greenseers, who were the shamans of the Children of the Forest, possessed a unique ability, but it was not limited to their species.

According to the books, approximately one in every 1000 babies is born as a "skinchanger" who can enter the minds of animals and control their actions. Among these skinchangers, approximately one in every 1000 is born a greenseer. Greenseers are renowned for their greensight, which allows them to see past, present, and future events in their dreams. These visions appear without intentional effort, often serving as warnings rather than providing answers. Bran Stark and Jojen Reed were both born with the greensight, but they needed training to fully develop their abilities.

The greensight, although the most famous ability of a greenseer, is not their sole power. Due to the decline of their species, much of the history of the Children of the Forest remains mysterious. Teachers often dismiss the existence of the Children and consider their accomplishments as mere folklore. These tales depict the greenseers harnessing the forces of nature to combat the First Men. They allegedly commanded trees to uproot themselves and attack their enemies, assembling formidable armies of creatures. Legends also speak of the greenseers utilizing a mystical technique called the "hammer of the waters" to obliterate the land bridge connecting Westeros, resulting in the creation of the Broken Arm of Dorne. In a later attempt to divide the continent, they inadvertently flooded a vast region known as the Neck. If any of these stories hold truth, greenseers would undoubtedly rank as some of the most powerful practitioners of magic in Westerosi history.

Who was the most powerful greenseer?

The mystery surrounding this question remains largely veiled. The ancient tomes do not unveil the names of any deceased greenseers. In the present era, the most formidable surviving greenseer assumes the prestigious mantle of the Three-Eyed Raven. Bran's first encounter with the Three-Eyed Raven occurred after he sustained a paralyzing injury. To locate the enigmatic figure behind the mythical bird, Bran and Jojen embarked on an extensive journey. The Raven imparts invaluable knowledge to Bran, ultimately revealing that he has long awaited the moment to designate him as the successor. Once Bran completes his training, he assumes the role of the Three-Eyed Raven. Incarnating the spirits of countless previous generations, he ascends to an all-knowing state, able to perceive and mold events both in the distant past and across vast distances. While the annals of history may have witnessed more potent greenseers, there is no doubt that Bran the Broken stands as the mightiest wielder of this extraordinary sight.

Greenseers, a mysterious and underexplored aspect of the story, hold a wealth of knowledge that remains unknown to fans. Bran's journey to become the Three-Eyed Raven is a captivating highlight of Game of Thrones. Contemporary greenseers possess unparalleled wisdom that surpasses time and physical limitations. In the ancient era, greenseers may have been as formidable as gods, although their true capabilities in the pre-Seven Kingdoms era remain a mystery. Despite their significant influence on the continent, their existence is largely overlooked in historical records. However, it is satisfying to see a greenseer finally occupying the Iron Throne.