Unsullied

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Unsullied are a fictional group of elite warrior-eunuchs in the A Song of Ice and Fire novels by George R. R. Martin, and the television adaptation, Game of Thrones. Known for their rigorous training, discipline, and loyalty, the Unsullied are often considered among the most formidable infantry units in the series' fictional world.

Origin and Training

The Unsullied are trained in the city of Astapor on the continent of Essos. From a young age, boys are taken from various places, often through slaving raids, and are subjected to harsh training and conditioning. This training not only includes combat skills but also involves brutal methods to completely erase their personal identities and wills, making them utterly obedient to their masters. A significant aspect of their training is the removal of their testicles and penis, which is believed to eliminate distractions and ensure their sole focus on duty and obedience.

Characteristics

The Unsullied are known for their distinctive appearance, wearing spiked bronze helmets and carrying large shields and short spears. Their discipline and training allow them to perform complex battlefield maneuvers flawlessly. They do not show pain or fear and will fight until their last breath, following orders without question. The Unsullied also choose new names for themselves every day, from a list of demeaning terms, as a reminder of their status.

In the Series

In A Song of Ice and Fire and Game of Thrones, the Unsullied gained prominence when Daenerys Targaryen purchases them to build her army. In a pivotal moment, she orders them to kill the slave masters of Astapor, liberating themselves and choosing to follow her out of their own free will, marking a significant departure from their previous existence.

Cultural Impact

The Unsullied have been analyzed for their representation of themes such as identity, slavery, and the effects of extreme conditioning on the human psyche. Their transformation from enslaved soldiers to free individuals under Daenerys's command is seen as a narrative of liberation and self-discovery.

Criticism

The portrayal of the Unsullied has also faced criticism, particularly regarding the depiction of castration and its psychological and physical effects. Some critics argue that the series simplifies the complexities of such conditions and their impact on a person's identity and social interactions.