The Waif and Jaqen Hghar: Beyond the Faceless Men
The Waif and Jaqen Hghar: Beyond the Faceless Men
The Waif and Jaqen Hghar are two formidable characters from George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series and its television adaptation, Game of Thrones. Often conflated due to their similar roles within the Faceless Men, these two distinct figures have unique characteristics, motivations, and narratives that set them apart. This article delves into the complexities of these characters and why the Waif is not simply another face of Jaqen Hghar.
The Faceless Men and Their Appliances
The Faceless Men, one of the most enigmatic and feared organizations in Westeros, are a group of master assassins known for their ability to change faces and adopt new identities. Both Jaqen Hghar and The Waif are pivotal members of this order, yet they serve different purposes and have unique backgrounds.
The Embassy in Oldtown and the Waif’s Role
The Waif, a member of the Faceless Men, is depicted in the books as residing in the principality of Braavos. Her role as a trainer and antagonist to Arya Stark in the House of Black and White makes her a formidable figure in Westeros. Unlike Jaqen Hghar, who assists Arya in her journey to become a Faceless Man, The Waif employs a more ruthless and harsh training method. Her presence in the House of Black and White underscores the brutal and unforgiving nature of the initiation rites for aspiring Faceless Men.
The Citadel of Oldtown and Jaqen Hghar’s Mission
Jaqen Hghar, on the other hand, is not merely a different mask of The Waif. In the series, he is based in the Citadel in Oldtown, where he meets and assists Arya as she navigates her ambitions and training. Jaqen Hghar’s primary mission is to help Arya prepare for her journey to Braavos, guiding her through the complexities of becoming a Faceless Man. The Waif’s role in Game of Thrones and the books is distinct from Jaqen Hghar’s, as she is the one who trains Arya in the rigorous and often violent rites of initiation.
Physical Impossibility and Script Convergence
It is crucial to note that in both the books and the television adaptation, Jaqen Hghar and The Waif are separate individuals. In the show, the Waif is killed by Arya, who then one day wears Jaqen Hghar’s face. This is a significant plot point that underscores the fact that these characters are distinct. In the books, Jaqen is in Oldtown, while Arya learns of the Waif in Braavos. These differences highlight the divergent paths and individualities of these two characters within the narrative.
Unique Motivations and Personalities
The Waif and Jaqen Hghar share the ultimate goal of becoming Faceless Men, but their methods and motivations differ starkly. The Waif is known for her cruel and unyielding approach to training, reflecting the harsh reality of the Faceless Men’s philosophy. Jaqen, however, serves as a more introspective and compassionate guide, helping Arya to understand the complex emotions and psychological transformations involved in becoming a Faceless Man.
The End of a Character: The Waif’s Role
Arya’s encounter with The Waif represents a pivotal moment in her journey. When The Waif is killed by Arya, it marks a significant turning point. Arya then takes the Waif’s face and places it on the wall, symbolizing her victory over a formidable opponent and her continued journey towards mastery. This event further cements the distinction between Jaqen Hghar and The Waif, as Arya’s actions in the show and the books clearly separate these two characters.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Jaqen Hghar and The Waif both belong to the Faceless Men, they are distinct characters with their own unique roles, personalities, and narratives within the narrative of A Song of Ice and Fire and Game of Thrones. The Waif’s presence as a trainer and antagonist in the House of Black and White, and Jaqen Hghar’s role as a guide and mentor to Arya, highlight the complexity and depth of these characters, making them integral to the story’s rich tapestry. Understanding their differences is crucial to appreciating the intricate world crafted by George R.R. Martin and brought to life in Game of Thrones.