Wildings

Wildings

Wildings are a fictional group of characters in the popular fantasy series "A Song of Ice and Fire" by George R.R. Martin. They are a diverse and nomadic people who live beyond the Wall, a massive barrier of ice that separates the Seven Kingdoms from the untamed lands of the far north.

Overview

The Wildings, also known as the Free Folk, are a collection of various tribes and clans who reject the authority of the Seven Kingdoms and the Night's Watch. They have their own unique culture, customs, and social structure. Unlike the settled people of Westeros, the Wildings are not bound by feudalism or the rigid class system.

History

The history of the Wildings is shrouded in mystery and legend. According to their own oral traditions, they are descendants of the First Men, the original inhabitants of Westeros. When the Andals invaded the continent thousands of years ago, the Wildings were pushed further north and forced to adapt to the harsh conditions beyond the Wall.

Society and Culture

The Wildings have a decentralized society with no central authority. Each tribe or clan is led by a chief or a king, but their power is limited and often temporary. The Wildings value personal freedom and individuality, and they have a strong sense of community and loyalty to their own people.

Their culture is deeply rooted in survival and self-sufficiency. They rely on hunting, gathering, and limited agriculture to sustain themselves. The Wildings are known for their resourcefulness and ability to survive in the harsh environment of the far north.

Relations with the Seven Kingdoms

The Wildings have a long and complicated history with the Seven Kingdoms. They are seen as a threat by the people of Westeros, who fear their raids and potential invasion. The Night's Watch, an ancient order tasked with defending the realm from the dangers beyond the Wall, has been in constant conflict with the Wildings.

However, not all Wildings are hostile towards the people of Westeros. Some have sought peaceful coexistence and even integration into the Seven Kingdoms. This has led to tensions and conflicts within the Wilding community itself, as some view this as a betrayal of their way of life.

In Popular Culture

The Wildings have gained significant popularity through the television adaptation of "A Song of Ice and Fire," titled "Game of Thrones." The portrayal of the Wildings in the series has brought attention to their unique culture and way of life.

See Also

• A Song of Ice and Fire
• Night's Watch
• Seven Kingdoms