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:''For the mule, see [[Maester (mule)]]''
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{{Hatnote|"Maester" redirects here. For the mule, see [[Maester (mule)]]}}
[[File:Maester link by timdurning.jpg|thumb|350px|Maester links, Art by Tim Durning ©]]
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{{Organization
[[File:Maester Duity.jpg|thumb|350px|Maester duty to the realm]]
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| Name = Order of Maesters
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| image =  [[File:Maester link by timdurning.jpg|350px]]
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| image_caption = A maester's chain, with links of different metals<br>Art by Tim Durning ©
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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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}}
  
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 knights of the mind."{{ref|AGOT|53}}
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The '''maesters''' are an order of scholars, healers, postmen, and scientists. They educate new students at their "seat", the [[Citadel]], which is located in [[Oldtown]], a city in the [[Reach]]. [[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]].{{ref|acok|20}} They are sometimes called "the [[knight]]s of the mind."{{ref|AGOT|53}}
  
== The Citadel ==
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==Organization==
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===Seneschal===
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The governance of the [[Citadel]] is held by the [[Seneschal]], chosen from among the archmaesters. A new Seneschal is appointed annually. As the archmaesters tend to see the office as a thankless task, as it takes them away from their true work, the Seneshcal is selected by lot, with the one who draws the black stone taking on the office.{{Ref|affc|45}} When the archmaester who draws the black stone is not capable of fulfilling his duties as Seneschal, another archmaester might volunteer to serve his term instead.{{Ref|affc|45}}
  
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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===Archmaesters===
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Further leading the Citadel are the archmaesters. These maesters have demonstrated that they have mastered a particular subject. They receive a mask, ring, and rod in the metal corresponding to the link of the maester's chain which signifies their expertise on the topic.{{Ref|AFFC|Prologue}} Archmaesters teach the students at the Citadel in their subject of expertise, and judge whether a novice or an acolyte has shown enough knowledge on their subject to receive a link for their chain.{{ref|affc|prologue}}
  
== Organization ==
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Archmaesters have the right to sit on the [[Conclave]], a council which elects the [[Grand Maester]]{{ref|asos|12}} and determines when the seasons change.{{ref|acok|0}}{{Ref|acok|7}} The meetings of the Conclave are conducted behind closed doors at the Citadel.{{ref|asos|12}}
===Maester===
 
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  ===
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Each archmaester is said to carry a heavy, black iron key that will open most of the doors in the Citadel. They keep them close on their person, or hide them well.{{Ref|affc|0}}  
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 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}}  
 
  
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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===Grand Maesters===
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The [[Grand Maester]] is a maester who serves as the Citadel's representative at the royal court of 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 is elected by the Conclave, and only the Conclave can unmake him again.{{ref|asos|12}} Although the Conclave puts effort into demonstrating their consideration of ability before birth, this is only a pretense which is not usually the case in its final choice for Grand Maester.{{Ref|asos|12}} Sworn to serve the whole realm,{{ref|AFFC|39}} the Grand Maester sits on the king's [[small council]] and acts as one of the his advisers.{{fact}}
  
=== Grand Maester  ===
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Grand Maesters are generally older men. [[Kaeth]] was chosen as Grand Maester at the age of eighty, [[Ellendor]] at almost ninety, and [[Merion]] at the age of sixty-six. After all three died within a short time span, King [[Aegon V Targaryen]] suggested to the Conclave that a younger man might be better. As such, [[Pycelle]], aged forty-two,  was raised to the office.{{Ref|affc|36}}
The Grand Maester is a senior member of the order who serves as the Citadel's representative to the [[Lord of the Seven Kingdoms]], the king on the [[Iron Throne]] in [[King's Landing]].{{ref|AWOIAF| Maesters}} He 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 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.{{fact}} Gems are woven into the chains.{{ref|agot|20}}
 
  
=== Seneschal  ===
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===Maesters===
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}}
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[[File:Maester Duity.jpg|thumb|350px|A maester at his service]]
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The maesters are scholars and scientists who have completed their training at the Citadel. They can be send to serve at the holding of a lord by the Citadel. Maesters are only found in castles,{{Ref|acok|19}} not in villages. Every great lord has a maester, and every lesser lord aspires to have one, as not having a maester in your service is taken to mean that you are of little consequence.{{Ref|adwd|37}} However, a lord has to pay the Citadel for a maester’s service,<ref name=conjose/> and as a result only those lordlings with sufficient funds can afford a maester.
  
== Traditions and Culture  ==
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Maesters wear a collar, which is supposed to remind him of the realm he serves.{{Ref|agot|41}} When he completes his education and takes his vows, a maester puts aside his House name.{{Ref|agot|60}} Although he is supposed to be loyal to the seat to which he is assigned, regardless of the changes in (lawful and unlawful) control of that holding,{{Ref|acok|66}} old allegiances or loyalties might continue linger.{{Ref|adwd|37}}
:''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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It is generally believed that not many maesters are willing to "dirty their hands" by helping smallfolk.{{Ref|acok|19}}
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===Novices and Acolytes===
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Students who start their education at the Citadel are known as novices. Once they have earned a link, they become acolytes.{{ref|affc|prologue}} Most acolytes treat novices as if they are slow-witted.{{Ref|affc|prologue}} Acolytes train at letters at the [[Scribe's Heart]],{{Ref|twoiaf| Preface}} and can be hired by [[Oldtown]]ers to read their letters or write their wills.{{Ref|affc|45}} When an acolyte is prepared to take his vows and become a maester, he is placed in a completely dark room with one of the Citadel's glass candles, made of razor-sharp obsidian. He must stay in that room for the entire night in darkness, unless he is able to light the candle. The tradition serves as a lesson about truth and learning.{{Ref|affc|prologue}}
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Students who violate the rules of the Citadel can be ordered confined to their rooms by the maesters.{{Ref|affc|0}} They can also receive more physical punishments; For example, for stealing from the kitchens, rectors might place them in stocks at the [[Seneschal's Court]], where acolytes may throw rotten vegetables at them.{{Ref|affc|45}}
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==Practices==
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===Education===
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[[File:Maester studies.jpg|thumb|350px|A maester at his studies]]
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Boys and young men from all over [[Westeros]] come to study, learn, and forge their chains at the [[Citadel]].{{Ref|twoiaf| The Reach: Oldtown}} There is no age requirement,<ref name=SSM_Requirements>[[So Spake Martin]]: [http://www.westeros.org/Citadel/SSM/Entry/Citadel_Entry_Requirements/ Citadel Entry Requirements (May 18, 1999)]</ref> and despite the prejudice of the archmaesters to status of birth, males of every social status are allowed to forge their chain. As such, [[small folk|baseborns]] (e.g., [[Pate]]),{{Ref|affc|prologue}} [[Bastardy|bastards]] (e.g., [[Walys]]){{Ref|ADWD|37}}, younger children of lords, and even royalty (e.g., Prince [[Oberyn Martell]],{{Ref|asos|36}} and Princes [[Aemon Targaryen (son of Maekar I)|Aemon]]{{Ref|agot|60}} and [[Vaegon Targaryen]]){{Ref|twoiaf| The Targaryen Kings: Jaehaerys I}} can study together at the Citadel.
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Novices and acolytes are educated together. Archmaesters give open lectures, which the students can attend at will. Once a student believes he has sufficient knowledge on a particular subject, he can go before an archmaester to demonstrate his knowledge. If the archmaester judges the student’s knowledge to be proficient, he awards him with a link of a metal reflecting the topic.{{Ref|affc|0}}
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Not all who start their studies will complete their chain. Oldtown is full of aging novices and acolytes who have never started their chains, or never finished forging them.<ref name=SSM_Requirements/> Others leave the Citadel before completing their chain on purpose. [[Gunthor Hightower]] studied for several years at the Citadel,{{Ref|affc|45}} although it is not known whether he earned any links while there. Both Lord [[Lyonel Strong]],{{Ref|TWOIAF| The Riverlands: House Tully}} and Prince [[Oberyn Martell]]{{Ref|asos|36}} left the Citadel after forging six links. And some students learn only something about healing, and may become barbers, serving [[smallfolk]] with leeches, setting broken bones, and shaving and cutting their hair.{{Ref|affc|0}}
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It is not known how long a student generally takes to forge a chain. Maester [[Yandel]] earned his first link in {{Date|285}} and completed his chain in {{Date|292}}, at the age of twenty,{{Ref|twoiaf| Preface}} while [[Aemon Targaryen (son of Maekar I)|Aemon]], who took several more years to forge his chain,<ref group="N">According to [[Jeor Mormont]], Aemon was "nine or ten" years old when he was send to the Citadel (''[[A Clash of Kings]]'', [[A Clash of Kings-Chapter 6|Jon I]]). As he completed his chain at the age of nineteen, it had taken him nine or ten years to complete his studies.</ref> took his maester's vows at the age of nineteen.{{Ref|awoiaf| Aemon}} The speed at which a student earns his links differs between each student. While some might take a year per link (e.g., [[Armen]]),{{Ref|affc|prologue}} exceptional students might earn as many as three links within a year (e.g., [[Alleras]]),{{Ref|affc|0}} possibly even more.<ref group="N">[[Aemon Targaryen (son of Maekar I)|Aemon]] had started his education at the age of "nine or ten", and earned "half a dozen" links by the time [[Aerys I Targaryen]] ascended the Iron Throne in {{Date|209}} (''[[A Clash of Kings]]'', [[A Clash of Kings-Chapter 6|Jon I]]), one or two years after arriving at the Citadel.</ref>
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====Citadel====
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Students are educated at the [[Citadel]], a complex of buildings found in [[Oldtown]]. The Citadel is financed by the lords who pay for having a maester in their service, and from certain taxes that the Citadel collects at Oldtown.<ref name=conjose>[[So Spake Martin]]: [http://www.westeros.org/Citadel/SSM/Entry/1284/ ConJose (San Jose, CA; August 29-September 2)  (August 29, 2002)]</ref>
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===Maester's vows===
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[[File:Maester Oath.jpg|thumb|350px|A maester taking the oath]]
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When an acolyte has completed his chain, he can swear a maester's vows. The night before, the acolytes must stand a vigil in a vault with a black [[glass candle]]. The acolytes are not allowed any other source of light, and has to spend the night in total darkness unless he can light the candle.{{ref|affc|0}}
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When an acolyte of noble birth takes his vows and dons his chain, he puts aside his House name.{{Ref|agot|60}} He swears sacred vows, promising to hold no lands or lordships,{{Ref|affc|17}} and to be celibate.{{Ref|ACOK|Prologue}}
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Maester's serving in the [[Night's Watch]] on the [[Wall]] are doubly sworn, and uphold both the maester's vows and the oaths of the Night's Watch<ref>[[So Spake Martin]]: [http://www.westeros.org/Citadel/SSM/Entry/2999/ SF, Targaryens, Valyria, Sansa, Martells, and More (June 26, 2001)]</ref>
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===Subjects of knowledge and tasks===
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The order of maesters are sometimes called the knights of the mind.{{Ref|agot|53}} Numerous subjects are taught at the Citadel. They include history, healing, herblore, the speech of ravens, the building of castles, navigating by the stars, the measurement of days and the marking of seasons.{{Ref|agot|53}} Maesters have performed autopsies for centuries to better understand the workings of the human body.{{Ref|agot|61}}{{Ref|affc|7}} They have observed that highborn girls get their first period at a younger age than lower born girls, and that very young mothers tend to have a significantly higher rate of death in childbirth.<ref>[[So Spake Martin]]: [http://www.westeros.org/Citadel/SSM/Entry/Age_of_Sexual_Relations_in_Westeros Age of Sexual Relations in Westeros (October 5, 1999)]</ref> They make star maps,{{Ref|agot|66}} monitor temperature variations and the march of the seasons, so they can advise on what to plant and when to expect a harvest,<ref>[[So Spake Martin]]: [http://www.westeros.org/Citadel/SSM/Entry/1173/ The Effects of Winter (June 21, 2001)]</ref> and measure the length of the days, as to determine the change of the seasons.{{ref|acok|0}} When the Conclave has decreed that the seasons have indeed changed, the Citadel sends out [[white raven]]s to the lords of Westeros, to herald the changing of the seasons.{{ref|acok|0}}
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[[File:Kerry Barnett Linked Advisor.JPG|thumb|350px|A maester advises his lord. © FFG]]
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Maesters advise their lords on the operation of their households and lands.{{ref|agot|6}}{{ref|asos|64}} Some lords trust their maesters to open and read letters, and to convey their contents to them. Others prefer to do so for themselves.{{Ref|adwd|3}} Maesters can be tasked with writing letters for their lords as well, and might be trusted to read and write the letters of those lords who are illiterate.{{Ref|adwd|37}} They are in charge of the [[raven]]s used as messengers. Although most ravens can only be trained to fly to one castle, a few can be trained to distinguish between two, and rarely even more.<ref>''[[The Winds of Winter]]'', [[Theon I (The Winds of Winter)|Theon I]]</ref> Maesters assist in childbirth,{{ref|agot|6}} treat illnesses,{{ref|asos|36}} and teach children arithmetic, language, and history.{{ref|agot|53}}{{ref|acok|66}}{{ref|asos|40}}
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Even among the maesters who have earned a Valyrian link, representing the higher mysteries,{{Ref|acok|24}} there are those who believe that, though it might have once been a mighty force in the world, it no longer is, naming Valyria as the "last ember" of magic, which went out with the [[Doom of Valyria|Doom]].{{Ref|acok|28}} Most archmaesters do not care much for ideas concerning occult matters.{{Ref|asos|44}} The rare archmaester who does (e.g., [[Marwyn]]){{Ref|affc|0}} can expect it to impact his reputation. It is said that all those who study the higher mysteries try their own hands at sorcery eventually, but always fail.{{Ref|acok|28}}
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Some subjects are forbidden in the Citadel. A maester can be stripped of his chain and exiled from the Citadel, for example, as punishment for cutting open living people,{{Ref|affc|7}} or practicing necromancy.{{Ref|acok|64}}
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===Chain===
 
[[File:Mike Capprotti the chain.jpg|350px|thumb|right|Forging the chain - by Mike Capprotti. © Fantasy Flight Games]]
 
[[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}}
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A maester can be recognized by the chain he wears around his neck. The collar is supposed to remind a maester of the realm he serves.{{Ref|agot|41}} The links of the chain can be made of every metal known to man.{{Ref|agot|20}} By earning their links, students "forge" their chain. This term is metaphorical; Though they do study metals at the Citadel, maesters do not necessarily train as blacksmiths<ref>[[So Spake Martin]]: [http://www.westeros.org/Citadel/SSM/Entry/1171/ Maester Chains and Valyrian Steel Links (June 20, 2001)]</ref>  Maesters never remove their chain, not even when sleeping,{{ref|agot|41}} and it is considered a great shame for a maester to surrender his chain.{{Ref|affc|35}}
  
=== Collar  ===
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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 chain include:
 
[[File:Maester iron link by timdurning.jpg|thumb|350px|Iron link for studies in the field of warcraft. Art by Tim Durning ©]]
 
[[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]]
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{{Columns|2|
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}}  
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*black iron, signifying 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}} likely signifying astronomy<ref group="N">Based on Archmaester Vaellyn's "subject to judge" being "the heavens" (''[[A Feast for Crows]]'', [[A Feast for Crows-Prologue|Prologue]]) and him being described as "the stargazer" (''[[A Feast for Crows]]'', [[A Feast for Crows-Appendix|Appendix]])</ref>
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*copper{{Ref|AGOT|41}}{{Ref|AFFC|Prologue}}{{Ref|AGOT|20}}
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*yellow gold, signifying math and economics{{Ref|ACOK|24}}{{Ref|AGOT|41}}
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*iron,{{Ref|AGOT|20}} signifying 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}} signifying [[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]], signifying the [[magic|higher mysteries]]{{Ref|ACOK|24}}
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}}
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While there are only fourteen known links, and thus fourteen known subjects of expertise taught at the Citadel, there are twenty-one known current archmaesters of the Citadel, for only eight of whom a specialism is known.{{Ref|affc|Appendix}} It is currently unknown if each of these archmaesters are specialized in a separate subject or whether multiple archmaesters can be specialized in the same subject.
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Only one maester in one hundred holds a link of Valyrian steel.{{ref|acok|24}}
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==History==
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Although the origin of the Citadel is disputed, the [[House Hightower|Hightowers]] are considered to have been instrumental in its founding,{{ref|affc|Appendix}} as most accounts credit its foundation to Prince [[Peremore Hightower|Peremore the Twisted]], the second son of King [[Uthor of the High Tower]]. The curious Peremore invited numerous scholars, including wise men, teachers, priests, healers, singers, wizards, alchemists, and sorcerors, to [[Oldtown]]. After Peremore's death, his brother, King [[Urrigon Hightower|Urrigon]], granted land alongside the [[Honeywine]] to "Peremore's pets", who developed the tract into the maesters' Citadel.{{ref|TWOIAF| The Reach: Oldtown}}
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Before the [[Doom of Valyria]], maesters and archmaesters often traveled to the Freehold of Valyria, searching for answers to the many questions they had.{{Ref|twoiaf| The Reach: Oldtown}}
  
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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In recent centuries, the maester’s of the Citadel have supplanted the once powerful [[Alchemists’ Guild]] through most of the [[Seven Kingdoms]].{{Ref|acok|20}}
  
These metals include:  
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Even before the official formation of the [[small council]], [[Grand Maester]]s held an important position at the royal court. However, over the course of history, several have found their deaths at the hands of their monarch: Grand Maester [[Gawen]], [[Desmond]], and [[Hareth (Maester)|Hareth]] have all been executed,{{Ref|asos|133}}{{Ref|asos|36}}{{Ref|twoiaf| The Targaryen Kings: Maegor I}} while [[Aegon II Targaryen]] had Grand Maester [[Gerardys]] fed to his dragon [[Sunfyre]].{{ref|asos|12}}
*Black iron (ravenry)  
 
*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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Archmaester [[Marwyn]] believes that the Citadel is behind the deaths of the last Targaryen [[dragon]]s, because of a conspiracy against magic and prophecy.{{Ref|affc|45}}
[[File:Maester studies.jpg|thumb|350px|Maester studies]]
 
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.
 
  
 
==Recent Events==
 
==Recent Events==
 
===''A Clash of Kings''===
 
===''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.
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When the [[red comet]] appears, the maesters are among the first to notice.{{Ref|agot|66}}{{Ref|acok|0}}
  
[[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]].
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The Conclave gathers to consider the reports and measurements made by maesters all over the realm. Based on that information, they declare the summer is over, and send out white ravens to herald the changing of the seasons.{{Ref|acok|0}}{{Ref|acok|7}}
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Acting as [[Hand of the King]], [[Tyrion Lannister]] has Grand Maester [[Pycelle]] thrown into the dungeons of the [[Red Keep]] as punishment for betraying his confidential information to Queen Regent [[Cersei Lannister]].{{Ref|acok|25}}
  
 
===''A Storm of Swords''===
 
===''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 Tyrell|Gormon]], formerly of [[House Tyrell]].
+
Accepting Pycelle’s dismissal, the Conclave gathers to discuss who his successor should be. After pretending to consider two lowborn maesters, the Conclave comes close to electing Maester [[Gormon Tyrell|Gormon]], who had been born a [[House Tyrell|Tyrell]] of [[Highgarden]]. Thanks to the presence of his [[little birds]] at the [[Citadel]], Lord [[Varys]] learns of this, and warns Lord [[Tywin Lannister]], the [[Hand of the King]]. To prevent the Tyrells from gaining more influence at court, Tywin immediately restores Pycelle to his office.{{Ref|asos|12}}
  
 
===''A Feast for Crows''===
 
===''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 [[dragon]]s. Some consider most maesters to be categorically opposed to magic and its influence on [[Westeros]].  
+
At the [[Citadel]], the novice [[Pate]] steals a black key which supposedly opens every door in the Citadel. He trades the key with the [[Alchemist]] for a [[currency|golden dragon]]. However, the Alchemist kills him,{{Ref|affc|0}} and assumes Pate’s appearance and identity.{{Ref|affc|45}}
  
Queen Regent [[Cersei Lannister]] perceives Pycelle as a broken man after his imprisonment.
+
[[Jon Snow]], the [[Lord Commander of the Night's Watch]], sends his sworn brother [[Samwell Tarly]] to [[Oldtown]] to train at the [[Citadel]] and become a maester. Maester [[Aemon Targaryen (son of Maekar I)|Aemon]], the maester of [[Castle Black]], is send with Samwell, but following a long period of illness dies, shortly before they reach Oldtown.{{ref|AFFC|5}}{{ref|AFFC|35}} After hearing Aemon’s interpretation of [[prince that was promised|a prophecy]], Archmaester [[Marwyn]] decides to travel to [[Slaver's Bay]] to reach [[Daenerys Targaryen]].{{ref|AFFC|45}}
  
[[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}}
+
===''A Dance with Dragons''===
 +
Lady [[Barbrey Dustin]] expresses her distrust of maesters to [[Theon Greyjoy]], and refers to them as "grey rats".{{ref|ADWD|37}}
  
===''A Dance with Dragons''===
+
Following the fall of Queen Regent [[Cersei Lannister]], Grand Maester Pycelle successfully seizes control of King [[Tommen Baratheon|Tommen I Baratheon]] and the [[small council]]. He offers Ser [[Kevan Lannister]] the [[regency]]. Together, they attempt to restore the damage done by Cersei and to mend the Lannister-Tyrell alliance that supports Tommen's hold on the Iron Throne. When he sees they are going to succeed, Lord [[Varys]], the former [[master of whisperers]], assassinates both Pycelle and Kevan.{{ref|ADWD|Epilogue}}
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 [[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]].{{ref|ADWD|Epilogue}}
 
  
 
== Known Members ==
 
== Known Members ==
 +
===Archmaesters===
 +
* Archmaester [[Agrivane]]{{Ref|affc|Appendix}}
 +
* Archmaester [[Benedict]]{{Ref|affc|Appendix}}
 +
* Archmaester [[Castos]]{{Ref|affc|Appendix}}
 +
* Archmaester [[Cetheres]]{{Ref|affc|Appendix}}
 +
* Archmaester [[Ebrose]], the healer, whose ring and rod and mask are silver{{Ref|affc|Appendix}}
 +
* Archmaester [[Gallard]]{{Ref|affc|Appendix}}
 +
* Archmaester [[Garizon]]{{Ref|affc|Appendix}}
 +
* Archmaester [[Guyne]]{{Ref|affc|Appendix}}
 +
* Archmaester [[Harodon]]{{Ref|affc|Appendix}}
 +
* Archmaester [[Marwyn]], called "Marwyn the Mage", whose ring and rod and mask are [[Valyrian steel]]{{Ref|affc|Appendix}}
 +
* Archmaester [[Mollos]]{{Ref|affc|Appendix}}
 +
* Archmaester [[Norren]], the previous Seneschal, whose ring and rod and mask are electrum{{Ref|affc|Appendix}}
 +
* Archmaester [[Nymos]]{{Ref|affc|Appendix}}
 +
* Archmaester [[Ocley]]{{Ref|affc|Appendix}}
 +
* Archmaester [[Perestan]], the historian, whose ring and rod and mask are copper{{Ref|affc|Appendix}}
 +
* Archmaester [[Ryam]], whose ring and rod and mask are yellow gold{{Ref|affc|Appendix}}
 +
* Archmaester [[Theobald]], current Seneschal, whose ring and rod and mask are lead{{Ref|affc|Appendix}}
 +
* Archmaester [[Vaellyn]], called "Vinegar Vaellyn", the stargazer, whose ring and rod and mask are bronze{{Ref|affc|Appendix}}
 +
* Archmaester [[Walgrave]], an old man of uncertain wit, whose ring and rod and mask are black iron{{Ref|affc|Appendix}}
 +
* Archmaester [[Willifer]]{{Ref|affc|Appendix}}
 +
* Archmaester [[Zarabelo]]{{Ref|affc|Appendix}}
  
===Archmaester===
+
===Maesters===
* Archmaester [[Norren]], Seneschal for the waning year, whose ring and rod and mask are electrum,
+
*Grand Maester {[[Pycelle]]}, served in King's Landing on the King's [[small council]] for over forty years. Murdered during the reign of King Tommen I.
* Archmaester [[Theobald]], Seneschal for the coming year, whose ring and rod and mask are lead,
+
*Maester {[[Aemon Targaryen (son of Maekar I)|Aemon]]}, maester at [[Castle Black]]. Died while crossing the [[narrow sea]].
* Archmaester [[Ebrose]], the healer, whose ring and rod and mask are silver,
+
*Maester [[Colemon]], maester at the [[Eyrie]].
* Archmaester [[Marwyn]], called "Marwyn the Mage", whose ring and rod and mask are [[Valyrian steel]],
+
*Maester {[[Cressen]]}, maester at [[Dragonstone]]. Died from drinking poison.
* Archmaester [[Perestan]], the historian, whose ring and rod and mask are copper,
+
*Maester [[Gormon Tyrell|Gormon]], an uncle to Lord [[Mace Tyrell]]. Nearly elected as Grand Maester.
* 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,
 
* [[Gallard]], [[Castos]], [[Zarabelo]], [[Benedict]], [[Garizon]], [[Nymos]], [[Cetheres]], [[Willifer]], [[Mollos]], [[Harodon]], [[Guyne]], [[Agrivane]], [[Ocley]], archmaesters all.
 
 
 
===Maester===
 
*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 {[[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.
 
*Maester [[Harmune]], a maester for the [[Night's Watch]] at Eastwatch-by-the-Sea.  
 
*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 [[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 [[Gormon Tyrell|Gormon]], an uncle to [[Mace Tyrell]], nearly chosen to become Grand Maester.
 
 
*Maester [[Gulian]], currently with ser [[Bonifer Hasty]] at [[Harrenhal]].
 
*Maester [[Gulian]], currently with ser [[Bonifer Hasty]] at [[Harrenhal]].
*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 [[Harmune]], maester at [[Eastwatch-by-the-Sea]].
 +
*Maester [[Henly (maester)|Henly]], maester in service of Lord [[House Slate|Slate]], currently at [[Winterfell]].
 +
*Maester {[[Luwin]]}, previous maester at [[Winterfell]]. Killed during the [[sack of Winterfell]] by men of [[House Bolton]].
 +
*Maester [[Mullin]], maester at the [[Shadow Tower]].
 +
*Maester [[Pylos]], maester at Dragonstone; Succeeded Cressen.
 +
*Maester [[Theomore]], originally of [[House Lannister of Lannisport]], in service at [[White Harbor]].
 
*Maester [[Tybald]], in service to the [[Dreadfort]] , currently with [[Arnolf Karstark]] at the [[Crofter's village]] near [[Winterfell]].
 
*Maester [[Tybald]], in service to the [[Dreadfort]] , currently with [[Arnolf Karstark]] at the [[Crofter's village]] near [[Winterfell]].
 
*Maester [[Yandel]], author of ''[[The World of Ice and Fire (Yandel)|The World of Ice and Fire]]''.
 
*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 - vivisection and other experiments performed on living human subjects.
+
*[[Qyburn]], a former maester who was stripped of his chain and title by the Citadel for conducting immoral research. Currently serves as advisor to Queen Regent [[Cersei Lannister]].
  
 
===Acolytes and Novices===
 
===Acolytes and Novices===
*Acolyte [[Leo Tyrell|Leo Tyrell]], called "Lazy" Leo, a follower of Marwyn.
+
*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.
+
*Acolyte [[Lorcas]], an acolyte for fifty years who 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]]}, who served as Archmaester Walgrave's personal assistant.{{Ref|affc|0}} Killed by the [[Alchemist]],{{Ref|affc|0}} who currently resides at the Citadel, pretending to be Pate.{{Ref|affc|45}}
 
*Novice [[Roone]]
 
*Novice [[Roone]]
 +
*Novice [[Samwell Tarly]], a brother of the [[Night's Watch]].
 +
*Novice [[Leo Tyrell|Leo Tyrell]], called "Lazy Leo", a follower of Marwyn.
  
===Historic Members ===
+
==Historical Members ==
 +
===Grand Maesters===
 +
*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 (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.
+
*Grand Maester [[Gerardys]], who was fed to a dragon by [[Aegon II Targaryen]].
*Grand Maester [[Runciter]], who served [[Viserys I Targaryen]].
+
*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 [[Munkun]], who served [[Aegon III Targaryen]] and his sons. Wrote the book ''[[The Dance of the Dragons, A True Telling]]''.
+
* The [[Grand Maester (Aerys I)|Grand Maester]] during the reign of [[Aerys I Targaryen]], said to be steeped in sorcery.{{ref|tss}}
*Grand Maester [[Alford]], who served [[Aegon IV Targaryen]].
+
 
*Grand Maester [[Kaeth]], who briefly served [[Aegon V Targaryen]]. Wrote the book ''[[Lives of Four Kings]]''.
+
===Archmaesters===
*Grand Maester [[Ellendor]], who briefly served Aegon V.
+
*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 [[Merion]], who died after being named Grand Maester but before arriving in [[King's Landing]].
+
*Archmaester [[Haereg]], who wrote ''[[History of the Ironborn]].
*Grand Maester [[Aethelmure]], whose biography exists in the library at [[Winterfell]] and whose harsh view on poisoners is referenced by Grand Maester Pycelle.
+
*Archmaester [[Hake (archmaester)|Hake]], an archmaester of ironborn origin.
*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]]''.
 
*Maester [[Yormwell]], The personal maester of Prince [[Baelor Targaryen (son of Daeron II)|Baelor Targaryen]].{{ref|thk}}
 
*Maester [[Melaquin]], who served prince [[Maekar I Targaryen|Maekar]] while he held [[Summerhall]].{{ref|tmk}}
 
*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 Gyldayn)|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.
+
 
*Archmaester [[Haereg]], who wrote ''[[History of the Ironborn]].
+
===Maesters===
 +
*Maester [[Beldon]], who served at [[Casterly Rock]] during the rule of Lord [[Gerold Lannister]]{{ref|twoiaf| The Westerlands: House Lannister under the Dragons}}
 +
*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 Targaryen]] while he held [[Summerhall]].{{ref|tmk}}
 +
*Maester [[Walys Flowers|Walys]], former 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]] at the end of the reign of [[Daeron I Targaryen]].{{ref|thk}}
  
 
==Quotes==
 
==Quotes==
Line 149: Line 231:
  
  
{{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]]
+
{{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==
 
*[[The Maester's Path]] - A viral marketing campaign for HBO's ''[[Game of Thrones]]''.
 
*[[The Maester's Path]] - A viral marketing campaign for HBO's ''[[Game of Thrones]]''.
 +
*[[:Category:Images of Maesters|Images of Maesters]]
 +
==Notes==
 +
{{Notes}}
  
== References and Notes  ==
+
==References==
 
{{references|2}}
 
{{references|2}}
 
{{EnWP|Maesters|small=yes}}
 
  
 
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Revision as of 10:24, 25 September 2017


Order of Maesters
Maester link by timdurning.jpg
A maester's chain, with links of different metals
Art by Tim Durning ©
Seat The Citadel, Oldtown
Region Seven Kingdoms

The maesters are an order of scholars, healers, postmen, and scientists. They educate new students at their "seat", the Citadel, which is located in Oldtown, a city in the Reach. 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.[1] They are sometimes called "the knights of the mind."[2]

Organization

Seneschal

The governance of the Citadel is held by the Seneschal, chosen from among the archmaesters. A new Seneschal is appointed annually. As the archmaesters tend to see the office as a thankless task, as it takes them away from their true work, the Seneshcal is selected by lot, with the one who draws the black stone taking on the office.[3] When the archmaester who draws the black stone is not capable of fulfilling his duties as Seneschal, another archmaester might volunteer to serve his term instead.[3]

Archmaesters

Further leading the Citadel are the archmaesters. These maesters have demonstrated that they have mastered a particular subject. They receive a mask, ring, and rod in the metal corresponding to the link of the maester's chain which signifies their expertise on the topic.[4] Archmaesters teach the students at the Citadel in their subject of expertise, and judge whether a novice or an acolyte has shown enough knowledge on their subject to receive a link for their chain.[4]

Archmaesters have the right to sit on the Conclave, a council which elects the Grand Maester[5] and determines when the seasons change.[6][7] The meetings of the Conclave are conducted behind closed doors at the Citadel.[5]

Each archmaester is said to carry a heavy, black iron key that will open most of the doors in the Citadel. They keep them close on their person, or hide them well.[8]

Grand Maesters

The Grand Maester is a maester who serves as the Citadel's representative at the royal court of the king on the Iron Throne, the Lord of the Seven Kingdoms.[9] The Grand Maester is elected by the Conclave, and only the Conclave can unmake him again.[5] Although the Conclave puts effort into demonstrating their consideration of ability before birth, this is only a pretense which is not usually the case in its final choice for Grand Maester.[5] Sworn to serve the whole realm,[10] the Grand Maester sits on the king's small council and acts as one of the his advisers.[citation needed]

Grand Maesters are generally older men. Kaeth was chosen as Grand Maester at the age of eighty, Ellendor at almost ninety, and Merion at the age of sixty-six. After all three died within a short time span, King Aegon V Targaryen suggested to the Conclave that a younger man might be better. As such, Pycelle, aged forty-two, was raised to the office.[11]

Maesters

A maester at his service

The maesters are scholars and scientists who have completed their training at the Citadel. They can be send to serve at the holding of a lord by the Citadel. Maesters are only found in castles,[12] not in villages. Every great lord has a maester, and every lesser lord aspires to have one, as not having a maester in your service is taken to mean that you are of little consequence.[13] However, a lord has to pay the Citadel for a maester’s service,[14] and as a result only those lordlings with sufficient funds can afford a maester.

Maesters wear a collar, which is supposed to remind him of the realm he serves.[15] When he completes his education and takes his vows, a maester puts aside his House name.[16] Although he is supposed to be loyal to the seat to which he is assigned, regardless of the changes in (lawful and unlawful) control of that holding,[17] old allegiances or loyalties might continue linger.[13]

It is generally believed that not many maesters are willing to "dirty their hands" by helping smallfolk.[12]

Novices and Acolytes

Students who start their education at the Citadel are known as novices. Once they have earned a link, they become acolytes.[4] Most acolytes treat novices as if they are slow-witted.[4] Acolytes train at letters at the Scribe's Heart,[18] and can be hired by Oldtowners to read their letters or write their wills.[3] When an acolyte is prepared to take his vows and become a maester, he is placed in a completely dark room with one of the Citadel's glass candles, made of razor-sharp obsidian. He must stay in that room for the entire night in darkness, unless he is able to light the candle. The tradition serves as a lesson about truth and learning.[4]

Students who violate the rules of the Citadel can be ordered confined to their rooms by the maesters.[8] They can also receive more physical punishments; For example, for stealing from the kitchens, rectors might place them in stocks at the Seneschal's Court, where acolytes may throw rotten vegetables at them.[3]

Practices

Education

A maester at his studies

Boys and young men from all over Westeros come to study, learn, and forge their chains at the Citadel.[19] There is no age requirement,[20] and despite the prejudice of the archmaesters to status of birth, males of every social status are allowed to forge their chain. As such, baseborns (e.g., Pate),[4] bastards (e.g., Walys)[13], younger children of lords, and even royalty (e.g., Prince Oberyn Martell,[21] and Princes Aemon[16] and Vaegon Targaryen)[22] can study together at the Citadel.

Novices and acolytes are educated together. Archmaesters give open lectures, which the students can attend at will. Once a student believes he has sufficient knowledge on a particular subject, he can go before an archmaester to demonstrate his knowledge. If the archmaester judges the student’s knowledge to be proficient, he awards him with a link of a metal reflecting the topic.[8]

Not all who start their studies will complete their chain. Oldtown is full of aging novices and acolytes who have never started their chains, or never finished forging them.[20] Others leave the Citadel before completing their chain on purpose. Gunthor Hightower studied for several years at the Citadel,[3] although it is not known whether he earned any links while there. Both Lord Lyonel Strong,[23] and Prince Oberyn Martell[21] left the Citadel after forging six links. And some students learn only something about healing, and may become barbers, serving smallfolk with leeches, setting broken bones, and shaving and cutting their hair.[8]

It is not known how long a student generally takes to forge a chain. Maester Yandel earned his first link in 285 AC and completed his chain in 292 AC, at the age of twenty,[18] while Aemon, who took several more years to forge his chain,[N 1] took his maester's vows at the age of nineteen.[24] The speed at which a student earns his links differs between each student. While some might take a year per link (e.g., Armen),[4] exceptional students might earn as many as three links within a year (e.g., Alleras),[8] possibly even more.[N 2]

Citadel

Students are educated at the Citadel, a complex of buildings found in Oldtown. The Citadel is financed by the lords who pay for having a maester in their service, and from certain taxes that the Citadel collects at Oldtown.[14]

Maester's vows

A maester taking the oath

When an acolyte has completed his chain, he can swear a maester's vows. The night before, the acolytes must stand a vigil in a vault with a black glass candle. The acolytes are not allowed any other source of light, and has to spend the night in total darkness unless he can light the candle.[8]

When an acolyte of noble birth takes his vows and dons his chain, he puts aside his House name.[16] He swears sacred vows, promising to hold no lands or lordships,[25] and to be celibate.[26]

Maester's serving in the Night's Watch on the Wall are doubly sworn, and uphold both the maester's vows and the oaths of the Night's Watch[27]

Subjects of knowledge and tasks

The order of maesters are sometimes called the knights of the mind.[2] Numerous subjects are taught at the Citadel. They include history, healing, herblore, the speech of ravens, the building of castles, navigating by the stars, the measurement of days and the marking of seasons.[2] Maesters have performed autopsies for centuries to better understand the workings of the human body.[28][29] They have observed that highborn girls get their first period at a younger age than lower born girls, and that very young mothers tend to have a significantly higher rate of death in childbirth.[30] They make star maps,[31] monitor temperature variations and the march of the seasons, so they can advise on what to plant and when to expect a harvest,[32] and measure the length of the days, as to determine the change of the seasons.[6] When the Conclave has decreed that the seasons have indeed changed, the Citadel sends out white ravens to the lords of Westeros, to herald the changing of the seasons.[6]

A maester advises his lord. © FFG

Maesters advise their lords on the operation of their households and lands.[33][34] Some lords trust their maesters to open and read letters, and to convey their contents to them. Others prefer to do so for themselves.[35] Maesters can be tasked with writing letters for their lords as well, and might be trusted to read and write the letters of those lords who are illiterate.[13] They are in charge of the ravens used as messengers. Although most ravens can only be trained to fly to one castle, a few can be trained to distinguish between two, and rarely even more.[36] Maesters assist in childbirth,[33] treat illnesses,[21] and teach children arithmetic, language, and history.[2][17][37]

Even among the maesters who have earned a Valyrian link, representing the higher mysteries,[38] there are those who believe that, though it might have once been a mighty force in the world, it no longer is, naming Valyria as the "last ember" of magic, which went out with the Doom.[39] Most archmaesters do not care much for ideas concerning occult matters.[40] The rare archmaester who does (e.g., Marwyn)[8] can expect it to impact his reputation. It is said that all those who study the higher mysteries try their own hands at sorcery eventually, but always fail.[39]

Some subjects are forbidden in the Citadel. A maester can be stripped of his chain and exiled from the Citadel, for example, as punishment for cutting open living people,[29] or practicing necromancy.[41]

Chain

Forging the chain - by Mike Capprotti. © Fantasy Flight Games

A maester can be recognized by the chain he wears around his neck. The collar is supposed to remind a maester of the realm he serves.[15] The links of the chain can be made of every metal known to man.[42] By earning their links, students "forge" their chain. This term is metaphorical; Though they do study metals at the Citadel, maesters do not necessarily train as blacksmiths[43] Maesters never remove their chain, not even when sleeping,[15] and it is considered a great shame for a maester to surrender his chain.[44]

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.[45] The metals of which a student can earn links for their chain include:

Iron link for studies in the field of warcraft. Art by Tim Durning ©

While there are only fourteen known links, and thus fourteen known subjects of expertise taught at the Citadel, there are twenty-one known current archmaesters of the Citadel, for only eight of whom a specialism is known.[46] It is currently unknown if each of these archmaesters are specialized in a separate subject or whether multiple archmaesters can be specialized in the same subject.

Only one maester in one hundred holds a link of Valyrian steel.[38]

History

Although the origin of the Citadel is disputed, the Hightowers are considered to have been instrumental in its founding,[46] as most accounts credit its foundation to Prince Peremore the Twisted, the second son of King Uthor of the High Tower. The curious Peremore invited numerous scholars, including wise men, teachers, priests, healers, singers, wizards, alchemists, and sorcerors, to Oldtown. After Peremore's death, his brother, King Urrigon, granted land alongside the Honeywine to "Peremore's pets", who developed the tract into the maesters' Citadel.[19]

Before the Doom of Valyria, maesters and archmaesters often traveled to the Freehold of Valyria, searching for answers to the many questions they had.[19]

In recent centuries, the maester’s of the Citadel have supplanted the once powerful Alchemists’ Guild through most of the Seven Kingdoms.[1]

Even before the official formation of the small council, Grand Maesters held an important position at the royal court. However, over the course of history, several have found their deaths at the hands of their monarch: Grand Maester Gawen, Desmond, and Hareth have all been executed,[47][21][48] while Aegon II Targaryen had Grand Maester Gerardys fed to his dragon Sunfyre.[5]

Archmaester Marwyn believes that the Citadel is behind the deaths of the last Targaryen dragons, because of a conspiracy against magic and prophecy.[3]

Recent Events

A Clash of Kings

When the red comet appears, the maesters are among the first to notice.[31][6]

The Conclave gathers to consider the reports and measurements made by maesters all over the realm. Based on that information, they declare the summer is over, and send out white ravens to herald the changing of the seasons.[6][7]

Acting as Hand of the King, Tyrion Lannister has Grand Maester Pycelle thrown into the dungeons of the Red Keep as punishment for betraying his confidential information to Queen Regent Cersei Lannister.[49]

A Storm of Swords

Accepting Pycelle’s dismissal, the Conclave gathers to discuss who his successor should be. After pretending to consider two lowborn maesters, the Conclave comes close to electing Maester Gormon, who had been born a Tyrell of Highgarden. Thanks to the presence of his little birds at the Citadel, Lord Varys learns of this, and warns Lord Tywin Lannister, the Hand of the King. To prevent the Tyrells from gaining more influence at court, Tywin immediately restores Pycelle to his office.[5]

A Feast for Crows

At the Citadel, the novice Pate steals a black key which supposedly opens every door in the Citadel. He trades the key with the Alchemist for a golden dragon. However, the Alchemist kills him,[8] and assumes Pate’s appearance and identity.[3]

Jon Snow, the Lord Commander of the Night's Watch, sends his sworn brother Samwell Tarly to Oldtown to train at the Citadel and become a maester. Maester Aemon, the maester of Castle Black, is send with Samwell, but following a long period of illness dies, shortly before they reach Oldtown.[50][44] After hearing Aemon’s interpretation of a prophecy, Archmaester Marwyn decides to travel to Slaver's Bay to reach Daenerys Targaryen.[3]

A Dance with Dragons

Lady Barbrey Dustin expresses her distrust of maesters to Theon Greyjoy, and refers to them as "grey rats".[13]

Following the fall of Queen Regent Cersei Lannister, Grand Maester Pycelle successfully seizes control of King Tommen I Baratheon and the small council. He offers Ser Kevan Lannister the regency. Together, they attempt to restore the damage done by Cersei and to mend the Lannister-Tyrell alliance that supports Tommen's hold on the Iron Throne. When he sees they are going to succeed, Lord Varys, the former master of whisperers, assassinates both Pycelle and Kevan.[51]

Known Members

Archmaesters

Maesters

Acolytes and Novices

Historical Members

Grand Maesters

Archmaesters

Maesters

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.[2]

- Luwin to Bran Stark


If you do not have a maester, it is taken to mean that you are of little consequence.[13]

- 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.[13]

- Barbrey Dustin to Theon Greyjoy

See Also

Notes

  1. According to Jeor Mormont, Aemon was "nine or ten" years old when he was send to the Citadel (A Clash of Kings, Jon I). As he completed his chain at the age of nineteen, it had taken him nine or ten years to complete his studies.
  2. Aemon had started his education at the age of "nine or ten", and earned "half a dozen" links by the time Aerys I Targaryen ascended the Iron Throne in 209 AC (A Clash of Kings, Jon I), one or two years after arriving at the Citadel.
  3. Based on Archmaester Vaellyn's "subject to judge" being "the heavens" (A Feast for Crows, Prologue) and him being described as "the stargazer" (A Feast for Crows, Appendix)

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 A Clash of Kings, Chapter 20, Tyrion V.
  2. 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 A Game of Thrones, Chapter 53, Bran VI.
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8 A Feast for Crows, Chapter 45, Samwell V.
  4. 4.00 4.01 4.02 4.03 4.04 4.05 4.06 4.07 4.08 4.09 4.10 4.11 4.12 A Feast for Crows, Prologue.
  5. 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 A Storm of Swords, Chapter 12, Tyrion II.
  6. 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 A Clash of Kings, Prologue.
  7. 7.0 7.1 A Clash of Kings, Chapter 7, Catelyn I.
  8. 8.0 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 8.5 8.6 8.7 8.8 8.9 A Feast for Crows, Prologue.
  9. George R. R. Martin's A World of Ice and Fire, Maesters.
  10. A Feast for Crows, Chapter 39, Cersei IX.
  11. 11.0 11.1 11.2 A Feast for Crows, Chapter 36, Cersei VIII.
  12. 12.0 12.1 A Clash of Kings, Chapter 19, Arya V.
  13. 13.0 13.1 13.2 13.3 13.4 13.5 13.6 A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 37, The Prince of Winterfell.
  14. 14.0 14.1 So Spake Martin: ConJose (San Jose, CA; August 29-September 2) (August 29, 2002)
  15. 15.0 15.1 15.2 15.3 15.4 15.5 15.6 15.7 15.8 15.9 A Game of Thrones, Chapter 41, Jon V.
  16. 16.0 16.1 16.2 A Game of Thrones, Chapter 60, Jon VIII.
  17. 17.0 17.1 A Clash of Kings, Chapter 66, Theon VI.
  18. 18.0 18.1 The World of Ice & Fire, Preface.
  19. 19.0 19.1 19.2 The World of Ice & Fire, The Reach: Oldtown.
  20. 20.0 20.1 So Spake Martin: Citadel Entry Requirements (May 18, 1999)
  21. 21.0 21.1 21.2 21.3 21.4 A Storm of Swords, Chapter 36, Davos IV.
  22. The World of Ice & Fire, The Targaryen Kings: Jaehaerys I.
  23. The World of Ice & Fire, The Riverlands: House Tully.
  24. George R. R. Martin's A World of Ice and Fire, Aemon.
  25. A Feast for Crows, Chapter 17, Cersei IV.
  26. A Clash of Kings, Prologue.
  27. So Spake Martin: SF, Targaryens, Valyria, Sansa, Martells, and More (June 26, 2001)
  28. A Game of Thrones, Chapter 61, Daenerys VII.
  29. 29.0 29.1 A Feast for Crows, Chapter 7, Cersei II.
  30. So Spake Martin: Age of Sexual Relations in Westeros (October 5, 1999)
  31. 31.0 31.1 A Game of Thrones, Chapter 66, Bran VII.
  32. So Spake Martin: The Effects of Winter (June 21, 2001)
  33. 33.0 33.1 A Game of Thrones, Chapter 6, Catelyn II.
  34. A Storm of Swords, Chapter 64, Jon VIII.
  35. A Dance with Dragons, Chapter 3, Jon I.
  36. The Winds of Winter, Theon I
  37. A Storm of Swords, Chapter 40, Bran III.
  38. 38.0 38.1 38.2 38.3 38.4 38.5 A Clash of Kings, Chapter 24, Theon II.
  39. 39.0 39.1 A Clash of Kings, Chapter 28, Bran IV.
  40. A Storm of Swords, Chapter 44, Jaime VI.
  41. A Clash of Kings, Chapter 64, Arya X.
  42. 42.00 42.01 42.02 42.03 42.04 42.05 42.06 42.07 42.08 42.09 42.10 A Game of Thrones, Chapter 20, Eddard IV.
  43. So Spake Martin: Maester Chains and Valyrian Steel Links (June 20, 2001)
  44. 44.0 44.1 A Feast for Crows, Chapter 35, Samwell IV.
  45. So Spake Martin: Dragon Limbs and Gender, Valyrian Weapons and Maesters' Chains (April 16, 2008)
  46. 46.00 46.01 46.02 46.03 46.04 46.05 46.06 46.07 46.08 46.09 46.10 46.11 46.12 46.13 46.14 46.15 46.16 46.17 46.18 46.19 46.20 46.21 46.22 A Feast for Crows, Appendix.
  47. A Storm of Swords, Bad parameter 2: "133" is not a recognized chapter.
  48. The World of Ice & Fire, The Targaryen Kings: Maegor I.
  49. A Clash of Kings, Chapter 25, Tyrion VI.
  50. A Feast for Crows, Chapter 5, Samwell I.
  51. A Dance with Dragons, Epilogue.
  52. A Game of Thrones, Chapter 9, Tyrion I.
  53. A Game of Thrones, Chapter 25, Eddard V.
  54. 54.0 54.1 The Sworn Sword.
  55. The World of Ice & Fire, The Westerlands: House Lannister under the Dragons.
  56. A Clash of Kings, Chapter 45, Catelyn VI.
  57. The Mystery Knight.
  58. The Hedge Knight.