Arya Stark formally meets a member of the Faceless Men in Season 4, Episode 6, “The Laws of Gods and Men”. While she hears their chanting in earlier episodes, this is the first time she directly interacts with one of them, specifically Jaqen H’ghar, after he dramatically alters his appearance.
From Braavos to Brotherhood Without Banners: Arya’s Journey to the House of Black and White
Arya Stark’s path to becoming “no one” within the House of Black and White is a long and arduous one, punctuated by tragedy, resilience, and a growing thirst for vengeance. Her encounter with Jaqen H’ghar in Season 2 sets the stage for her eventual apprenticeship, but it’s not until after a significant period of independent survival that she finally makes her way to Braavos. Understanding the context surrounding this meeting is crucial to appreciating its significance.
The Foundation: Jaqen H’ghar and the Three Lives
The initial bond between Arya and Jaqen H’ghar forms during her time with Yoren, a recruiter for the Night’s Watch, as they travel north. Arya saves Jaqen, along with two other prisoners, from a burning carriage. In gratitude, Jaqen offers her three lives to take in recompense for saving him. This sets the foundation for his cryptic mentorship and foreshadows Arya’s future.
Learning from the Hound and the Brotherhood Without Banners
Following the Red Wedding, Arya falls in with Sandor “The Hound” Clegane. While initially a captive, their relationship evolves into a strange partnership. During this time, Arya hones her survival skills and witnesses the brutality of the world. This period further hardens her resolve and reinforces her desire for revenge. She is later captured by the Brotherhood Without Banners and briefly reunited with Jaqen H’ghar (although she doesn’t realize it’s him, as he has taken on a new face). After escaping, she sets sail for Braavos.
“The Laws of Gods and Men”: The Threshold of Change
The specific episode, “The Laws of Gods and Men,” primarily focuses on Tyrion Lannister’s trial for the murder of Joffrey Baratheon. However, it also includes a pivotal scene where Arya finally arrives in Braavos after a long and perilous journey.
Arriving at the House of Black and White
The episode culminates with Arya standing before the House of Black and White, a temple dedicated to the Many-Faced God, a god of death. She presents the iron coin given to her by Jaqen H’ghar back in Season 2 and speaks the phrase “Valar Morghulis” (All men must die). The door opens, and she is greeted by an old man. However, after a moment, the man transforms into Jaqen H’ghar, confirming her arrival and the beginning of her training to become a Faceless Man. This is the official, face-to-face meeting after the events in Season 2.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Arya and the Faceless Men
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify Arya’s journey and connection with the Faceless Men:
FAQ 1: What is the significance of the iron coin Arya carries?
The iron coin, bearing the inscription “Valar Morghulis” and “Valar Dohaeris” (All men must serve), is a form of currency and a key to entry into the world of the Faceless Men. It signifies that the bearer is known to the organization and is seeking their services or training.
FAQ 2: What does “Valar Morghulis” and “Valar Dohaeris” mean?
“Valar Morghulis” is High Valyrian for “All men must die,” and “Valar Dohaeris” translates to “All men must serve.” These phrases represent the core philosophy of the Faceless Men, acknowledging the inevitability of death and the need for service.
FAQ 3: Why does Arya want to become a Faceless Man?
Initially, Arya seeks out the Faceless Men as a means to exact revenge on those who have wronged her family. She believes their ability to change faces and assassinate targets without detection is the perfect tool for her vengeance. Later, her motivations evolve as she becomes more deeply involved in their teachings.
FAQ 4: What are the powers of the Faceless Men?
The Faceless Men possess the ability to change their appearance, essentially becoming masters of disguise. This transformation is achieved through magical means, though the specifics are not fully explained in the series. Their true power lies in their anonymity and ability to infiltrate any environment.
FAQ 5: Who is the Many-Faced God?
The Many-Faced God is the deity worshipped by the Faceless Men. He is a god of death, believed to be a representation of all gods of death from different cultures. The Faceless Men see death as a gift and believe their assassinations are offerings to the Many-Faced God.
FAQ 6: What kind of training does Arya undergo in the House of Black and White?
Arya’s training is rigorous and multifaceted. She learns to lie convincingly, observe people meticulously, and shed her identity. She also undergoes physical training, mastering various combat techniques. A crucial aspect of her training involves serving in the temple and learning about poisons and healing.
FAQ 7: Does Arya ever truly become “no one”?
This is a complex question. While Arya strives to shed her identity and become “no one,” she ultimately fails to completely erase her past. Her strong emotions and personal attachments prevent her from fully embracing the Faceless Men’s philosophy.
FAQ 8: Why does Arya eventually leave the Faceless Men?
Arya leaves the Faceless Men because she chooses to reclaim her identity as Arya Stark. She realizes that being “no one” is not the path she wants to follow. Her desire for vengeance and her loyalty to her family ultimately outweigh her commitment to the Faceless Men.
FAQ 9: What consequences does Arya face for leaving the Faceless Men?
By abandoning her training and defying the Faceless Men, Arya becomes a target. They send the Waif, another apprentice, to kill her. This leads to a deadly confrontation in Braavos, forcing Arya to use all her skills to survive.
FAQ 10: How does Arya use her Faceless Men training after returning to Westeros?
Arya’s training with the Faceless Men proves invaluable in Westeros. She uses her skills in disguise, assassination, and combat to eliminate her enemies and protect her family. She becomes a formidable warrior and strategist.
FAQ 11: Is Jaqen H’ghar evil?
Jaqen H’ghar’s morality is ambiguous. He is not inherently evil, but he is detached and pragmatic. He follows the rules of the Faceless Men and believes in the inevitability of death. His actions are often motivated by a sense of balance rather than personal gain.
FAQ 12: What is the significance of Arya killing the Night King?
Arya’s training with the Faceless Men, coupled with her quick thinking and agility, allows her to deliver the final blow to the Night King. This victory is not solely attributed to her training, but it highlights the significant role her time in Braavos played in shaping her into a skilled and resourceful warrior. It’s a culmination of everything she learned, from combat skills to stealth and deception, that ultimately allows her to save Westeros.