Difference between revisions of "Maesters"

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:''For the mule, see [[Maester (mule)]]''
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{{Hatnote|"Maester" redirects here. For the mule, see [[Maester (mule)]]}}
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{{Organization
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| Name = Order of Maesters
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| image = 
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| image_caption =
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| Symbol =
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| Type  =
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| Seat = The [[Citadel]], [[Oldtown]]
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| Region = [[Seven Kingdoms]]
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| Allegiance =
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| Current_Leader =
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| Founder =
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| Founded = 
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| Reorganized =
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| Disbanded =
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}}
 
[[File:Maester link by timdurning.jpg|thumb|350px|Maester links, Art by Tim Durning ©]]
 
[[File:Maester link by timdurning.jpg|thumb|350px|Maester links, Art by Tim Durning ©]]
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The '''maesters''' are an order of scholars, healers, postmen, and scientists who are trained at a school called the [[Citadel]], which is located in [[Oldtown]]. [[House Hightower]] was integral in the Citadel's foundation, and continues to patronize the order. As advisers to the [[Westeros]]i nobility, the maesters have largely supplanted the [[Alchemists' Guild]]. They are sometimes called "the [[knight]]s of the mind."{{ref|AGOT|53}}
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==The Citadel==
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The [[Citadel]], an impressive structure in the city of [[Oldtown]], is considered the home of all maesters. Here they undergo their training from the time they arrive as novices until they have achieved the status of maester. At the entrance of the Citadel are green marble [[sphinx]]es.
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==Organization==
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===Maester===
 
[[File:Maester Duity.jpg|thumb|350px|Maester duty to the realm]]
 
[[File:Maester Duity.jpg|thumb|350px|Maester duty to the realm]]
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The maesters are scholars, scientists, learned advisors to the nobility, and occasionally pseudo-religious researchers in the occult. Males of any age may begin training as a maester; females are not permitted to study or join the order. Noble families in [[Westeros]] sometimes send their younger sons to the Citadel. A [[bastard]] may study at the Citadel and become a maester. The maesters, like the brothers of the [[Night's Watch]], are considered to be servants of Westeros and all its people and in theory have no political allegiance. After finishing his course of study, a maester is assigned to a castle, keep or other holding, and is loyal to the people of that place as a mentor, healer and adviser, regardless of changes in control of that holding. To this end a man who earns his chain is stripped of his family name and from that time on is known only by his title and first name. In practice, some maesters hold over old allegiances and loyalties. 
  
The '''maesters''' are an order of scholars, healers, postmen, and scientists who are trained at a school called the [[Citadel]]. [[House Hightower]] was integral in the Citadel's foundation, and continues to patronize the order. As advisers to the Westerosi nobility, the maesters have largely supplanted the [[Alchemists' Guild]]. They are sometimes called "the knights of the mind."{{ref|AGOT|53}}
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===Archmaester===
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The perceived "master" of any area of study is given the title of archmaester and a mask, ring, and rod in the corresponding metal to signify his expertise. For example, an archmaester who specializes in ravenry will have a mask, ring, and rod made of black iron. Archmaesters are the senior members of the Order and are given the right to sit on the [[Conclave]]. The Conclave is the governing body of the Citadel and is the same body that elects the [[Grand Maester]] who advises the king.{{ref|AWOIAF| Maesters}} All meetings of the Conclave are confidential in nature and conducted behind closed doors at the Citadel only.{{ref|asos|12}}  
  
== The Citadel ==
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[[Marwyn|Marwyn the Mage]] is the order's leading researcher into the occult and [[magic]], with a mask, ring and rod made of [[Valyrian steel]]. For his strange pursuits and gruff manner he is ostracized by others in the Citadel.
  
The [[Citadel]] is an impressive structure in the city of [[Oldtown]], and is considered the home of all maesters. Here they undergo all of their training from the time they arrive as novices until they have achieved the status of maester. At the entrance of the Citadel are green marble sphinxes.
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===Grand Maester===
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The Grand Maester is a senior member of the order who serves as the Citadel's representative to the [[King of the Andals, the Rhoynar, and the First Men|king]] on the [[Iron Throne]], the [[Lord of the Seven Kingdoms]].{{ref|AWOIAF| Maesters}} The Grand Maester can only be made or unmade by the Conclave.{{ref|asos|12}} Sworn to serve the whole realm,{{ref|AFFC|39}} the Grand Maester sits on the [[small council]] and acts as one of the king's advisers. The Grand Maester wears many interwoven maester chains to indicate his high office, but these do not reflect his true studies.{{fact}} Gems are woven into the chains.{{ref|agot|20}}
  
== Organization ==
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===Seneschal===
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The [[Seneschal]] is chosen from among the archmaesters by lot, with a new one chosen each year. The Seneschal is tasked with the governance of the Citadel. Most archmaesters consider it a thankless task that takes them away from their true calling.{{ref|affc|45}}
  
The maesters are scholars, scientists, learned advisors to the nobility, and occasionally pseudo-religious researchers in the occult. Males of any age may begin training as a maester; females are not permitted to study or join the order. Noble families in [[Westeros]] sometimes send their younger sons to the Citadel. A [[bastard]] may study at the Citadel and become a maester. The maesters, like the brothers of the [[Night's Watch]], are considered to be servants of Westeros and all its people and in theory have no political allegiance. After finishing his course of study, a maester is assigned to a castle, keep or other holding, and is loyal to the people of that place as a mentor, healer and adviser, regardless of changes in control of that holding. To this end a man who earns his chain is stripped of his family name and from that time on is known only by his title and first name. In practice, some maesters hold over old allegiances and loyalties.
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==Traditions and Culture==
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:''See also: [[:Category:Images of Maesters|Images of Maesters]]''
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[[File:Maester Oath.jpg|thumb|350px|Maester taking the oath]]
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[[File:Mike Capprotti the chain.jpg|350px|thumb|right|Forging the chain - by Mike Capprotti. © Fantasy Flight Games]]
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Maesters begin their training as novices in the Citadel. Once they begin their study and have been seen as proficient in a particular course of study they are tested and awarded a link of a certain metal to reflect their skill and knowledge. A student with a link is known as an acolyte until he has a full chain. It is not until he has completed extensive study in various subjects and has earned enough links to form a chain (to be worn around the neck) that he is considered worthy of advancement to the title of maester, no longer a student but a peer. The night before the acolytes swear their vows to become maesters, they must stand a vigil in a vault with a black [[glass candle]]. He is allowed no lantern or any other source of light. Unless he can light the candle, he will spend the night in total darkness.{{ref|affc|0}}
  
=== Grand Maester  ===  
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===Collar===
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[[File:Maester iron link by timdurning.jpg|thumb|350px|Iron link for studies in the field of warcraft. Art by Tim Durning ©]]
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[[File:Kerry Barnett Linked Advisor.JPG|thumb|350px|A maester advises his lord. © FFG]]
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The collar signifies that maesters do not serve themselves, but are instead servants of all of Westeros. The collar consists of several links of different types of metal. These chains are formed from every metal known to man, but almost no maester will ever wear them all. Maesters do not remove the chain ever, not even when sleeping.{{ref|agot|41}}
  
The Grand Maester is considered the senior member of the order and serves as its representative to the king. He can only be made or unmade by the Conclave.{{ref|asos|12}} He sits on the [[small council]] and acts as the king's adviser. The Grand Maester wears many interwoven maester chains to indicate his high office, but these do not reflect his true studies. Gems are woven into the chains.{{ref|agot|20}}
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According to [[George R. R. Martin]], it is possible to earn multiple links of the same metal; Multiple links of the same metal on a maester's chain signifies the expertise of the maester on the subject.<ref>[[So Spake Martin]]: [http://www.westeros.org/Citadel/SSM/Entry/Dragon_Limbs_and_Gender_Valyrain_Weapons_and_Maesters_Chains/ Dragon Limbs and Gender, Valyrian Weapons and Maesters' Chains (April 16, 2008)]</ref> The metals of which a student can earn links for their chair include:
  
[[Pycelle]] has served in the office for over forty years, though his loyalties lie with [[House Lannister]] rather than the realm. His advanced age has slowed him down, and he often dozes off during small council meetings. He was thrown in the dungeons of the [[Red Keep]] by [[Tyrion Lannister]], but [[Tywin Lannister]] recalled him to his duties when it appeared the Citadel was going to replace him with Maester [[Gormon Tyrell|Gormon]], formerly of [[House Tyrell]]. After his imprisonment Cersei perceives him as a broken man, but in spite of his past failings in court intrigue, Pycelle successfully seizes control of King [[Tommen Baratheon|Tommen I]] and the council after Cersei's arrest by the [[High Sparrow]], offering [[Kevan Lannister]] the regency. As they attempt to fix Cersei's follies, Pycelle and Kevan are both assassinated by [[Varys]], the former [[master of whisperers]].
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{{Columns|2|
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*black iron (ravenry){{Ref|ACOK|24}}{{Ref|AFFC|Prologue}}
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*brass{{Ref|AGOT|20}}
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*bronze{{Ref|AGOT|41}}{{Ref|AGOT|20}}
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*copper{{Ref|AGOT|41}}{{Ref|AFFC|Prologue}}{{Ref|AGOT|20}}
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*yellow gold (math and economics){{Ref|ACOK|24}}{{Ref|AGOT|41}}
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*iron{{Ref|AGOT|20}} (warcraft){{Ref|AGOT|41}}
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*lead{{Ref|AGOT|41}}{{Ref|AFFC|Prologue}}{{Ref|AGOT|20}}
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*pewter{{Ref|AFFC|Prologue}}
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*platinum{{Ref|AGOT|20}}
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*red gold{{Ref|AGOT|20}}
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*silver{{Ref|AGOT|20}} ([[medicine]], healing, and the functions of the body){{Ref|ACOK|24}}{{Ref|AGOT|41}}{{Ref|affc|prologue}}
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*steel{{Ref|AGOT|20}}
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*tin{{Ref|AGOT|41}}{{Ref|AFFC|Prologue}}{{Ref|AGOT|20}}
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*[[Valyrian steel]] ([[magic]] and the occult){{Ref|ACOK|24}}
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}}
  
=== Archmaester  ===
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Only one maester in one hundred holds a link of Valyrian steel, as the study of magic is looked down upon by most maesters.{{ref|acok|24}}
  
The perceived "master" of any area of study is given a mask, ring, and rod and the title Archmaester in the corresponding metal to signify his expertise. For example, an archmaester who specializes in ravenry will have a mask, ring, and rod made of black iron. Archmaesters are the senior members of the Order and are given the right to sit on the Conclave. The Conclave is the governing body of the Citadel and is the same body that elects the Grand Maester. All the meetings of the Conclave are confidential in nature and conducted behind closed doors at the Citadel only.{{ref|asos|12}}  
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===Practices and observances===
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[[File:Maester studies.jpg|thumb|350px|Maester studies]]
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Maesters chiefly communicate through messenger [[raven]]s, which are trained specifically for one route. For example, for a message that must be sent to [[Castle Black]], the maester uses the raven from the Castle Black cage. One of the typical duties of a maester is care of a keep's ravens. A special breed of [[white raven]] that is larger and more intelligent than average is maintained at the Citadel for important communications. Maesters also constantly monitor the seasons. When the seasons are about to change, they send white ravens to spread the announcement throughout the realm.{{ref|acok|0}} Maesters who are skilled in astronomy often watch the skies and study constellations.
  
Marwyn the Mage is the order's leading researcher into the occult and [[magic]]. For his strange pursuits and gruff manner he is ostracized by others in the Citadel.
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==Recent Events==
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===''A Clash of Kings''===
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When the [[red comet]] appears during the events of the [[War of the Five Kings]], the maesters are among the first to notice.
  
=== Seneschal  ===
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[[Pycelle]] has served as Grand Maester for over forty years, though his loyalties lie with [[House Lannister]] rather than the realm. His advanced age has slowed him down, and he often dozes off during small council meetings. He is thrown in the dungeons of the [[Red Keep]] by [[Tyrion Lannister]].
  
The Seneschal is chosen from among the archmaesters by lot. A new one is chosen each year. The Seneschal is tasked with the governance of the Citadel. Most archmaesters consider it a thankless task that takes them away from their true calling.{{ref|affc|45}}
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===''A Storm of Swords''===
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[[Tywin Lannister]], the [[Hand of the King]], recalls Pycelle to his duties when it appeared the Citadel was going to replace him with Maester [[Gormon Tyrell|Gormon]], formerly of [[House Tyrell]].
  
== Traditions and Culture  ==
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===''A Feast for Crows''===
:''See also: [[:Category:Images of Maesters|Images of Maesters]]''
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There have been whispers that the maesters hold more more power and sway than they are ready to admit. Archmaester [[Marwyn]] suspects that they had a role in the demise of [[House Targaryen]]'s [[dragon]]s. Some consider most maesters to be categorically opposed to magic and its influence on [[Westeros]].  
[[File:Maester Oath.jpg|thumb|350px|Maester taking the oath]]
 
[[File:Mike Capprotti the chain.jpg|350px|thumb|right|Forging the chain - by Mike Capprotti. © Fantasy Flight Games]]
 
Maesters begin their training as novices in the Citadel. Once they begin their study and have been seen as proficient in a particular course of study they are tested and awarded a link of a certain metal to reflect their skill and knowledge. A student with a link is known as an acolyte until he has a full chain; it is not until he has completed extensive study in various subjects and has earned enough links to form a chain (to be worn around the neck) that he is considered worthy of advancement to the title of Maester, no longer a student but a peer. The night before the acolytes swear their vows to become maesters, they must stand a vigil in a vault with a black [[Glass candle]]. He is allowed no lantern or any other source of light. Unless he can light the candle, he will spend the night in total darkness.{{ref|affc|0}} There have been whispers that the maesters have held much more power and sway than they are ready to admit. Archmaester [[Marwyn]] suspects that they had a role in the demise of [[House Targaryen]]'s [[Dragon]]s. Some consider most maesters to be categorically opposed to magic and its influence on [[Westeros]].  
 
  
=== The collar  ===
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Queen Regent [[Cersei Lannister]] perceives Pycelle as a broken man after his imprisonment.
[[File:Maester iron link by timdurning.jpg|thumb|350px|Iron link for studies in the field of warcraft. Art by Tim Durning ©]]
 
[[File:Kerry Barnett Linked Advisor.JPG|thumb|350px|A maester advises his lord. © FFG]]
 
The collar signifies that maesters do not serve themselves, but are instead servants of all of Westeros. The collar consists of several links of different types of metal. These chains are formed from every metal known to man, but almost no maester will ever wear them all. Maesters do not remove the chain ever, not even when sleeping.{{ref|agot|41}}
 
  
According to semi-canon sources, it is possible to earn multiple links of the same metal.<ref>So Spake Martin: [http://www.westeros.org/Citadel/SSM/Entry/Dragon_Limbs_and_Gender_Valyrain_Weapons_and_Maesters_Chains/ Dragon Limbs and Gender, Valyrian Weapons and Maesters' Chains] (April 16, 2008)</ref>
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[[Jon Snow]], the [[Lord Commander of the Night's Watch]], sends [[Samwell Tarly]] to [[Oldtown]] to train at the [[Citadel]]. Maester [[Aemon Targaryen (son of Maekar I)|Aemon]] dies en route.{{ref|AFFC|5}}{{ref|AFFC|35}} Archmaester [[Marwyn]] decides to travel to [[Slaver's Bay]] to reach [[Daenerys Targaryen]].{{ref|AFFC|45}}
  
These metals include:
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===''A Dance with Dragons''===
*Black iron (Ravenry)
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Lady [[Barbrey Dustin]] is extremely distrustful of maesters in general and refers to them as "grey rats".{{ref|ADWD|41}}
*Brass
 
*Bronze ([[Astronomy]])
 
*Copper (History)
 
*Electrum (Astrology)
 
*Yellow Gold (Economics)
 
*Iron (Warcraft)
 
*Lead
 
*Pale steel (Smithing)
 
*Pewter
 
*Platinum
 
*Red gold
 
*Silver ([[Medicine]] and healing)
 
*Steel
 
*Tin
 
*[[Valyrian steel]] (Magic and the occult) - Only one in one hundred holds a link of Valyrian steel; the study of magic is looked down upon by most maesters.{{ref|acok|28}}
 
  
=== Practices and observances  ===
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In spite of his past failings in court intrigue, Pycelle successfully seizes control of King [[Tommen Baratheon|Tommen I Baratheon]] and the council after Cersei's arrest by the [[High Sparrow]], offering Ser [[Kevan Lannister]] the [[regency]]. As they attempt to fix Cersei's follies and mend the damages to the Lannister-Tyrell alliance that supports [[Tommen Baratheon]]'s hold on the Iron Throne, Pycelle and Kevan are both assassinated by [[Varys]], the former [[master of whisperers]].{{ref|ADWD|Epilogue}}
 
 
[[File:Maester studies.jpg|thumb|350px|Maester studies]]
 
Maesters chiefly communicate through messenger ravens. These ravens are trained specifically for one route; for example, for a message that must be sent to [[Castle Black]], the maester uses the raven from the Castle Black cage. One of the typical duties of a maester is care of a keep's ravens. A special breed of [[white ravens]] that are larger and more intelligent than average are maintained at the Citadel for important communications. Maesters also constantly monitor the seasons. When the seasons are about to change, they send white ravens to spread the announcement throughout the realm.{{ref|acok|0}} Maesters who are skilled in astronomy often watch the skies and study constellations. When the red comet appeared during the events of the [[War of the Five Kings]], the maesters were among the first to notice.
 
  
 
== Known Members ==
 
== Known Members ==
 
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===Archmaesters===
===Archmaester===
 
* Archmaester [[Norren]], Seneschal for the waning year, whose ring and rod and mask are electrum,
 
* Archmaester [[Theobald]], Seneschal for the coming year, whose ring and rod and mask are lead,
 
 
* Archmaester [[Ebrose]], the healer, whose ring and rod and mask are silver,
 
* Archmaester [[Ebrose]], the healer, whose ring and rod and mask are silver,
 
* Archmaester [[Marwyn]], called "Marwyn the Mage", whose ring and rod and mask are [[Valyrian steel]],
 
* Archmaester [[Marwyn]], called "Marwyn the Mage", whose ring and rod and mask are [[Valyrian steel]],
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* Archmaester [[Norren]], Seneschal for the waning year, whose ring and rod and mask are electrum,
 
* Archmaester [[Perestan]], the historian, whose ring and rod and mask are copper,
 
* Archmaester [[Perestan]], the historian, whose ring and rod and mask are copper,
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* Archmaester [[Ryam]], whose ring and rod and mask are yellow gold,
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* Archmaester [[Theobald]], Seneschal for the coming year, whose ring and rod and mask are lead,
 
* Archmaester [[Vaellyn]], called "Vinegar Vaellyn", the stargazer, whose ring and rod and mask are bronze,
 
* Archmaester [[Vaellyn]], called "Vinegar Vaellyn", the stargazer, whose ring and rod and mask are bronze,
* Archmaester [[Ryam]], whose ring and rod and mask are yellow gold,
 
 
* Archmaester [[Walgrave]], an old man of uncertain wit, whose ring and rod and mask are black iron,
 
* Archmaester [[Walgrave]], an old man of uncertain wit, whose ring and rod and mask are black iron,
* [[Gallard]], [[Castos]], [[Zarabelo]], [[Benedict]], [[Garizon]], [[Nymos]], [[Cetheres]], [[Willifer]], [[Mollos]], [[Harodon]], [[Guyne]], [[Agrivane]], [[Ocley]], archmaesters all.
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* [[Agrivane]], [[Benedict]], [[Castos]], [[Cetheres]], [[Gallard]], [[Garizon]], [[Guyne]], [[Harodon]], [[Mollos]], [[Nymos]], [[Ocley]], [[Willifer]], [[Zarabelo]], archmaesters all.
  
===Maester===
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===Maesters===
 
*Grand Maester {[[Pycelle]]}, served in King's Landing and on the small council for over forty years.  Murdered during the reign of King Tommen I.
 
*Grand Maester {[[Pycelle]]}, served in King's Landing and on the small council for over forty years.  Murdered during the reign of King Tommen I.
 
*Maester {[[Aemon Targaryen (son of Maekar I)|Aemon]]}, Maester of the [[Night's Watch]] at [[Castle Black]], one of three living members of [[House Targaryen]]. Died of a chill after crossing by sea to the [[Free Cities]] in the company of his student, [[Samwell Tarly]].  
 
*Maester {[[Aemon Targaryen (son of Maekar I)|Aemon]]}, Maester of the [[Night's Watch]] at [[Castle Black]], one of three living members of [[House Targaryen]]. Died of a chill after crossing by sea to the [[Free Cities]] in the company of his student, [[Samwell Tarly]].  
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*Maester [[Colemon]], personal maester to Jon Arryn while he was in King's Landing, currently living at the Eyrie.
 
*Maester {[[Cressen]]}, Maester at Dragonstone and advisor to [[Stannis Baratheon]]. He drank from the cup of poison that was meant for Stannis's red priestess, [[Melisandre]]. The poison did not affect Melisandre, but Cressen was killed.  
 
*Maester {[[Cressen]]}, Maester at Dragonstone and advisor to [[Stannis Baratheon]]. He drank from the cup of poison that was meant for Stannis's red priestess, [[Melisandre]]. The poison did not affect Melisandre, but Cressen was killed.  
*Maester [[Colemon]], personal maester to Jon Arryn while he was in King's Landing, currently living at the Eyrie.
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*Maester [[Gormon Tyrell|Gormon]], an uncle to [[Mace Tyrell]], nearly chosen by the Citadel to become Grand Maester in replacement of Pycelle.
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*Maester [[Gulian]], currently with ser [[Bonifer Hasty]] at [[Harrenhal]].
 
*Maester [[Harmune]], a maester for the [[Night's Watch]] at Eastwatch-by-the-Sea.  
 
*Maester [[Harmune]], a maester for the [[Night's Watch]] at Eastwatch-by-the-Sea.  
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*Maester [[Henly (maester)|Henly]], maester in service of Lord [[House Slate|Slate]], currently in [[Winterfell]] with Lord [[Roose Bolton]]
 
*Maester {[[Luwin]]}, Maester of [[Winterfell]] and trusted advisor to [[House Stark]]. Killed during the [[sack of Winterfell]] by men of [[House Bolton]]. One of the few maesters to have studied magic.  
 
*Maester {[[Luwin]]}, Maester of [[Winterfell]] and trusted advisor to [[House Stark]]. Killed during the [[sack of Winterfell]] by men of [[House Bolton]]. One of the few maesters to have studied magic.  
 
*Maester [[Mullin]], a maester for the [[Night's Watch]] at the Shadow Tower.  
 
*Maester [[Mullin]], a maester for the [[Night's Watch]] at the Shadow Tower.  
 
*Maester [[Pylos]], successor to Cressen at Dragonstone. Aided [[Davos Seaworth]] in smuggling out [[Edric Storm]], in order to spare him from being burned as a sacrifice by [[Melisandre]].  
 
*Maester [[Pylos]], successor to Cressen at Dragonstone. Aided [[Davos Seaworth]] in smuggling out [[Edric Storm]], in order to spare him from being burned as a sacrifice by [[Melisandre]].  
*Maester [[Gormon Tyrell|Gormon]], an uncle to [[Mace Tyrell]], nearly chosen to become Grand Maester.
 
 
*Maester [[Theomore]], originally of [[House Lannister of Lannisport]], in service at [[White Harbor]]. Lord [[Wyman Manderly]] does not trust him due to his Lannister blood.  
 
*Maester [[Theomore]], originally of [[House Lannister of Lannisport]], in service at [[White Harbor]]. Lord [[Wyman Manderly]] does not trust him due to his Lannister blood.  
*[[Qyburn]], advisor to Queen Cersei. Former maester stripped of his chain and title by the Citadel for conducting immoral research - vivisection and other experiments performed on living human subjects.
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*Maester [[Tybald]], in service to the [[Dreadfort]] , currently with [[Arnolf Karstark]] at the [[Crofter's village]] near [[Winterfell]].
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*Maester [[Yandel]], author of ''[[The World of Ice and Fire (Yandel)|The World of Ice and Fire]]''.
 +
*[[Qyburn]], advisor to Queen Cersei. Former maester stripped of his chain and title by the Citadel for conducting immoral research, including vivisection and other experiments performed on living human subjects.
  
 
===Acolytes and Novices===
 
===Acolytes and Novices===
*Acolyte [[Leo Tyrell|Leo Tyrell]], called "Lazy" Leo, a follower of Marwyn.
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*Acolyte [[Alleras]], called "the Sphinx", a follower of Marwyn.
 +
*Acolyte [[Armen]], called "Armen the Acolyte" by his friends.
 
*Acolyte [[Robert Frey (son of Raymund)|Robert Frey]]
 
*Acolyte [[Robert Frey (son of Raymund)|Robert Frey]]
*Acolyte [[Armen]], called "Armen the Acolyte" by his friends.
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*Acolyte [[Lorcas]], who has been an acolyte for fifty years, and serves the [[Seneschal]].
*Acolyte [[Alleras]], called "the Sphinx", also a follower of Marwyn
 
 
 
*Novice [[Samwell Tarly]], a brother of the [[Night's Watch]] and student of Maester Aemon.
 
*Novice {[[Pate (Novice)|Pate]]}, Archmaester Walgrave's assistant, killed and replaced by the [[Alchemist]]. Some speculate that [[Jaqen H'ghar]] was the Alchemist, and took up Pate's identity after killing him.
 
 
*Novice [[Mollander]]
 
*Novice [[Mollander]]
 +
*Novice {[[Pate (novice)|Pate]]}, Archmaester Walgrave's assistant, killed and replaced by the [[Alchemist]]. Some speculate that [[Jaqen H'ghar]] was the Alchemist, and took up Pate's identity after killing him.
 
*Novice [[Roone]]
 
*Novice [[Roone]]
 +
*Novice [[Samwell Tarly]], a brother of the [[Night's Watch]] and student of Maester Aemon.
 +
*Novice [[Leo Tyrell|Leo Tyrell]], called "Lazy Leo", a follower of Marwyn.
  
 
===Historic Members ===
 
===Historic Members ===
 +
*Grand Maester [[Aethelmure]], whose biography exists in the library at [[Winterfell]] and whose harsh view on poisoners is referenced by Grand Maester Pycelle.{{Ref|AGOT|9}}{{Ref|AGOT|25}}
 +
*Grand Maester [[Alford]], who served [[Aegon IV Targaryen]].
 +
*Grand Maester [[Desmond]], who served Maegor I until the king had him executed.
 +
*Grand Maester [[Ellendor]], who briefly served Aegon V.{{Ref|AFFC|36}}
 
*Grand Maester [[Gawen]], who served [[Aegon I Targaryen]] and his sons until being executed by [[Maegor I Targaryen]].
 
*Grand Maester [[Gawen]], who served [[Aegon I Targaryen]] and his sons until being executed by [[Maegor I Targaryen]].
*Grand Maester [[Desmond]], who served Maegor I until the king had him executed.
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*Grand Maester [[Gerardys]], who was fed to a dragon by [[Aegon II Targaryen]].
*Grand Maester [[Runciter]], who served [[Viserys I Targaryen]].
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*Grand Maester [[Hareth (maester)|Hareth]], who was executed for treason.{{Ref|ASOS|36}}
 +
*Grand Maester [[Kaeth]], who briefly served [[Aegon V Targaryen]]. Wrote the book ''[[Lives of Four Kings]]''.
 +
*Grand Maester [[Malleon]], who wrote the book ''[[The Lineages and Histories of the Great Houses of the Seven Kingdoms]]''.
 
*Grand Maester [[Mellos]], who served Viserys I.
 
*Grand Maester [[Mellos]], who served Viserys I.
 +
*Grand Maester [[Merion]], who died after being named Grand Maester but before arriving in [[King's Landing]].{{Ref|AFFC|36}}
 +
*Grand Maester [[Munkun]], who served [[Aegon III Targaryen]] and his sons. Wrote the book ''[[The Dance of the Dragons, A True Telling]]''.
 
*Grand Maester [[Orwyle]], who held the office at the onset of the [[Dance of the Dragons]]
 
*Grand Maester [[Orwyle]], who held the office at the onset of the [[Dance of the Dragons]]
*Grand Maester [[Gerardys]], who was fed to a dragon by [[Aegon II Targaryen]].
+
*Grand Maester [[Runciter]], who served [[Viserys I Targaryen]].
*Grand Maester [[Alford]], who served [[Aegon III Targaryen]].
+
*Archmaester [[Gyldayn]], who wrote ''[[The Princess and The Queen, or, The Blacks and The Greens]]'' and ''[[The Rogue Prince, or, A King's Brother (by Archmaester Gyldayn)|The Rogue Prince, or, A King's Brother]]''.
*Grand Maester [[Munkun]], who served Aegon III and his sons. Wrote the book ''[[The Dance of the Dragons, A True Telling]]''.
+
*Archmaester [[Haereg]], who wrote ''[[History of the Ironborn]].
*Grand Maester [[Kaeth]], who briefly served [[Aegon V Targaryen]]. Wrote the book ''[[Lives of Four Kings]]''.
+
*Archmaester [[Hake (archmaester)|Hake]], an archmaester of ironborn origin.
*Grand Maester [[Ellendor]], who briefly served Aegon V.
 
*Grand Maester [[Merion]], who died after being named Grand Maester but before arriving in [[King's Landing]].
 
*Grand Maester [[Aethelmure]], whose biography exists in the library at [[Winterfell]] and whose harsh view on poisoners is referenced by Grand Maester Pycelle.
 
*Grand Maester [[Hareth (maester)|Hareth]], who was executed for attempting to usurp Targaryen rule.
 
*Grand Maester [[Malleon]], who wrote the book ''[[The Lineages and Histories of the Great Houses of the Seven Kingdoms, With Descriptions of Many High Lords and Noble Ladies and Their Children]]''.
 
*Archmaester [[Gyldayn]], who wrote the book ''[[The Princess and The Queen, or, The Blacks and The Greens (by Archmaester Gyldayn)|The Princess and The Queen, or, The Blacks and The Greens]]'' and ''[[The Rogue Prince, or, A King's Brother (by Archmaester Glydayn)|The Rogue Prince, or, the King’s Brother]]''.
 
 
*Archmaester [[Harmune (archmaester)|Harmune]], who wrote the book ''[[Watchers on the Wall]]''.
 
*Archmaester [[Harmune (archmaester)|Harmune]], who wrote the book ''[[Watchers on the Wall]]''.
*Maester [[Walys Flowers|Walys]], Maester of Winterfell and trusted advisor to [[Rickard Stark]].
+
*Archmaester [[Vaegon Targaryen|Vaegon]], born a [[House Targaryen|Targaryen]] prince and called the Dragonless.
*Archmaester [[Hake (archmaester)|Hake]], an archmaester of ironborn origin.
+
*Maester [[Beldon]], who served at [[Casterly Rock]] during the rule of Lord [[Gerold Lannister]]{{ref|twoiaf| House Lannister under the Dragons}}
*Archmaester [[Haereg]], who wrote ''[[History of the Ironborn]].
+
*Maester [[Cerrick]], a maester of ironborn origin who served [[House Webber]].{{ref|tss}}
 +
*Maester [[Kym]], maester at [[Riverrun]] during Catelyn Tully's childhood.{{Ref|ACOK|45}}
 +
*Maester [[Melaquin]], who served Prince [[Maekar I Targaryen|Maekar]] while he held [[Summerhall]].{{ref|tmk}}
 +
*Maester [[Walys Flowers|Walys]], Maester of Winterfell and trusted advisor to Lord [[Rickard Stark]].
 +
*Maester [[Yormwell]], the personal maester of Prince [[Baelor Targaryen (son of Daeron II)|Baelor Targaryen]].{{ref|thk}}
 +
* The [[Grand Maester (Aerys I)|Grand Maester]] during the rule of [[Aerys I Targaryen]], said to be steeped in sorcery.{{ref|tss}}
  
 
==Quotes==
 
==Quotes==
{{quote|There are some who call my order the [[knight]]s of the mind ... Have you ever thought that you might wear a maester's chain? There is no limit to what you might learn ... I can teach you history, healing, herblore. I can teach you the speech of [[raven]]s, and how to build a castle, and the way a sailor steers his ship by the stars I can teach you to measure the days and marks the seasons, and at the [[Citadel]] in [[Oldtown]] they can teach you a thousand things more. But, Bran, no man can teach you [[magic]].{{ref|AGOT|53}}}} - Maester [[Luwin]] to [[Bran Stark]]
+
{{quote|There are some who call my order the [[knight]]s of the mind ... Have you ever thought that you might wear a maester's chain? There is no limit to what you might learn ... I can teach you history, healing, herblore. I can teach you the speech of [[raven]]s, and how to build a castle, and the way a sailor steers his ship by the stars. I can teach you to measure the days and marks the seasons, and at the [[Citadel]] in [[Oldtown]] they can teach you a thousand things more. But, Bran, no man can teach you [[magic]].{{ref|AGOT|53}}}} - [[Luwin]] to [[Bran Stark]]
  
  
{{Quote|If you do not have a maester, it is taken to mean that you are of little consequence.{{Ref|aDwD|37}}}} - Lady [[Barbrey Dustin]], to [[Theon Greyjoy]]
+
{{Quote|If you do not have a maester, it is taken to mean that you are of little consequence.{{Ref|aDwD|37}}}} - [[Barbrey Dustin]] to [[Theon Greyjoy]]
  
  
{{Quote|Isn't it clever how the maesters go only by one name, even those who had two when they first arrived at the [[Citadel]]?  That way we cannot know who they truly are or where they come from. {{Ref|aDwD|37}}}} - Lady [[Barbrey Dustin]], to [[Theon Greyjoy]]
+
{{Quote|Isn't it clever how the maesters go only by one name, even those who had two when they first arrived at the [[Citadel]]?  That way we cannot know who they truly are or where they come from.{{Ref|aDwD|37}}}} - [[Barbrey Dustin]] to [[Theon Greyjoy]]
  
 
==See Also==
 
==See Also==
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Revision as of 02:18, 8 February 2017


Order of Maesters
Seat The Citadel, Oldtown
Region Seven Kingdoms
Maester links, Art by Tim Durning ©

The maesters are an order of scholars, healers, postmen, and scientists who are trained at a school called the Citadel, which is located in Oldtown. House Hightower was integral in the Citadel's foundation, and continues to patronize the order. As advisers to the Westerosi nobility, the maesters have largely supplanted the Alchemists' Guild. They are sometimes called "the knights of the mind."[1]

The Citadel

The Citadel, an impressive structure in the city of Oldtown, is considered the home of all maesters. Here they undergo their training from the time they arrive as novices until they have achieved the status of maester. At the entrance of the Citadel are green marble sphinxes.

Organization

Maester

Maester duty to the realm

The maesters are scholars, scientists, learned advisors to the nobility, and occasionally pseudo-religious researchers in the occult. Males of any age may begin training as a maester; females are not permitted to study or join the order. Noble families in Westeros sometimes send their younger sons to the Citadel. A bastard may study at the Citadel and become a maester. The maesters, like the brothers of the Night's Watch, are considered to be servants of Westeros and all its people and in theory have no political allegiance. After finishing his course of study, a maester is assigned to a castle, keep or other holding, and is loyal to the people of that place as a mentor, healer and adviser, regardless of changes in control of that holding. To this end a man who earns his chain is stripped of his family name and from that time on is known only by his title and first name. In practice, some maesters hold over old allegiances and loyalties.

Archmaester

The perceived "master" of any area of study is given the title of archmaester and a mask, ring, and rod in the corresponding metal to signify his expertise. For example, an archmaester who specializes in ravenry will have a mask, ring, and rod made of black iron. Archmaesters are the senior members of the Order and are given the right to sit on the Conclave. The Conclave is the governing body of the Citadel and is the same body that elects the Grand Maester who advises the king.[2] All meetings of the Conclave are confidential in nature and conducted behind closed doors at the Citadel only.[3]

Marwyn the Mage is the order's leading researcher into the occult and magic, with a mask, ring and rod made of Valyrian steel. For his strange pursuits and gruff manner he is ostracized by others in the Citadel.

Grand Maester

The Grand Maester is a senior member of the order who serves as the Citadel's representative to the king on the Iron Throne, the Lord of the Seven Kingdoms.[2] The Grand Maester can only be made or unmade by the Conclave.[3] Sworn to serve the whole realm,[4] the Grand Maester sits on the small council and acts as one of the king's advisers. The Grand Maester wears many interwoven maester chains to indicate his high office, but these do not reflect his true studies.[citation needed] Gems are woven into the chains.[5]

Seneschal

The Seneschal is chosen from among the archmaesters by lot, with a new one chosen each year. The Seneschal is tasked with the governance of the Citadel. Most archmaesters consider it a thankless task that takes them away from their true calling.[6]

Traditions and Culture

See also: Images of Maesters
Maester taking the oath
Forging the chain - by Mike Capprotti. © Fantasy Flight Games

Maesters begin their training as novices in the Citadel. Once they begin their study and have been seen as proficient in a particular course of study they are tested and awarded a link of a certain metal to reflect their skill and knowledge. A student with a link is known as an acolyte until he has a full chain. It is not until he has completed extensive study in various subjects and has earned enough links to form a chain (to be worn around the neck) that he is considered worthy of advancement to the title of maester, no longer a student but a peer. The night before the acolytes swear their vows to become maesters, they must stand a vigil in a vault with a black glass candle. He is allowed no lantern or any other source of light. Unless he can light the candle, he will spend the night in total darkness.[7]

Collar

Iron link for studies in the field of warcraft. Art by Tim Durning ©
A maester advises his lord. © FFG

The collar signifies that maesters do not serve themselves, but are instead servants of all of Westeros. The collar consists of several links of different types of metal. These chains are formed from every metal known to man, but almost no maester will ever wear them all. Maesters do not remove the chain ever, not even when sleeping.[8]

According to George R. R. Martin, it is possible to earn multiple links of the same metal; Multiple links of the same metal on a maester's chain signifies the expertise of the maester on the subject.[9] The metals of which a student can earn links for their chair include:

Only one maester in one hundred holds a link of Valyrian steel, as the study of magic is looked down upon by most maesters.[10]

Practices and observances

Maester studies

Maesters chiefly communicate through messenger ravens, which are trained specifically for one route. For example, for a message that must be sent to Castle Black, the maester uses the raven from the Castle Black cage. One of the typical duties of a maester is care of a keep's ravens. A special breed of white raven that is larger and more intelligent than average is maintained at the Citadel for important communications. Maesters also constantly monitor the seasons. When the seasons are about to change, they send white ravens to spread the announcement throughout the realm.[12] Maesters who are skilled in astronomy often watch the skies and study constellations.

Recent Events

A Clash of Kings

When the red comet appears during the events of the War of the Five Kings, the maesters are among the first to notice.

Pycelle has served as Grand Maester for over forty years, though his loyalties lie with House Lannister rather than the realm. His advanced age has slowed him down, and he often dozes off during small council meetings. He is thrown in the dungeons of the Red Keep by Tyrion Lannister.

A Storm of Swords

Tywin Lannister, the Hand of the King, recalls Pycelle to his duties when it appeared the Citadel was going to replace him with Maester Gormon, formerly of House Tyrell.

A Feast for Crows

There have been whispers that the maesters hold more more power and sway than they are ready to admit. Archmaester Marwyn suspects that they had a role in the demise of House Targaryen's dragons. Some consider most maesters to be categorically opposed to magic and its influence on Westeros.

Queen Regent Cersei Lannister perceives Pycelle as a broken man after his imprisonment.

Jon Snow, the Lord Commander of the Night's Watch, sends Samwell Tarly to Oldtown to train at the Citadel. Maester Aemon dies en route.[13][14] Archmaester Marwyn decides to travel to Slaver's Bay to reach Daenerys Targaryen.[6]

A Dance with Dragons

Lady Barbrey Dustin is extremely distrustful of maesters in general and refers to them as "grey rats".[15]

In spite of his past failings in court intrigue, Pycelle successfully seizes control of King Tommen I Baratheon and the council after Cersei's arrest by the High Sparrow, offering Ser Kevan Lannister the regency. As they attempt to fix Cersei's follies and mend the damages to the Lannister-Tyrell alliance that supports Tommen Baratheon's hold on the Iron Throne, Pycelle and Kevan are both assassinated by Varys, the former master of whisperers.[16]

Known Members

Archmaesters

  • Archmaester Ebrose, the healer, whose ring and rod and mask are silver,
  • Archmaester Marwyn, called "Marwyn the Mage", whose ring and rod and mask are Valyrian steel,
  • Archmaester Norren, Seneschal for the waning year, whose ring and rod and mask are electrum,
  • Archmaester Perestan, the historian, whose ring and rod and mask are copper,
  • Archmaester Ryam, whose ring and rod and mask are yellow gold,
  • Archmaester Theobald, Seneschal for the coming year, whose ring and rod and mask are lead,
  • Archmaester Vaellyn, called "Vinegar Vaellyn", the stargazer, whose ring and rod and mask are bronze,
  • Archmaester Walgrave, an old man of uncertain wit, whose ring and rod and mask are black iron,
  • Agrivane, Benedict, Castos, Cetheres, Gallard, Garizon, Guyne, Harodon, Mollos, Nymos, Ocley, Willifer, Zarabelo, archmaesters all.

Maesters

Acolytes and Novices

  • Acolyte Alleras, called "the Sphinx", a follower of Marwyn.
  • Acolyte Armen, called "Armen the Acolyte" by his friends.
  • Acolyte Robert Frey
  • Acolyte Lorcas, who has been an acolyte for fifty years, and serves the Seneschal.
  • Novice Mollander
  • Novice {Pate}, Archmaester Walgrave's assistant, killed and replaced by the Alchemist. Some speculate that Jaqen H'ghar was the Alchemist, and took up Pate's identity after killing him.
  • Novice Roone
  • Novice Samwell Tarly, a brother of the Night's Watch and student of Maester Aemon.
  • Novice Leo Tyrell, called "Lazy Leo", a follower of Marwyn.

Historic Members

Quotes

There are some who call my order the knights of the mind ... Have you ever thought that you might wear a maester's chain? There is no limit to what you might learn ... I can teach you history, healing, herblore. I can teach you the speech of ravens, and how to build a castle, and the way a sailor steers his ship by the stars. I can teach you to measure the days and marks the seasons, and at the Citadel in Oldtown they can teach you a thousand things more. But, Bran, no man can teach you magic.[1]

- Luwin to Bran Stark


If you do not have a maester, it is taken to mean that you are of little consequence.[26]

- Barbrey Dustin to Theon Greyjoy


Isn't it clever how the maesters go only by one name, even those who had two when they first arrived at the Citadel? That way we cannot know who they truly are or where they come from.[26]

- Barbrey Dustin to Theon Greyjoy

See Also

References and Notes

This page uses content from the English Wikipedia. The original content was at Maesters. The list of authors can be seen in the page history of Maesters. As with A Wiki of Ice and Fire, the content of Wikipedia is available under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License.