'Winds of Winter' spoilers: Back story of Brienne puts her in front and centre

George R.R. Martin recently read a sample chapter from “Winds of Winter” at the Balticon event. The author reportedly shared some interesting back story details about Brienne of Tarth, which makes the character much more important in the fight for the Iron Throne.

[Spoiler alert]

According to a report by Emergency Awesome, Martin has confirmed that Brienne is the descendant of Ser Duncan the Tall, who was the Lord Commander of the King’s Guard during the reign of King Aegon V Targaryen. Martin has also written a spinoff series titled “Tales of Dunk and Egg” that focuses on this character.

The big reveal puts Brienne at the centre of the story. Ser Duncan was one of the most famous knights of Westeros and Brienne has proved herself to be a capable knight, but has so far not managed to achieve anything big. She may soon get her chance when the great war against the White Walkers and their army begins in “Winds of Winter.”

Although in the show Brienne finally seems to be in a place where she wants to be, her situation is not so secure in “A Song of Ice and Fire.” In the book “A Feast for Crows” she was captured by a band of men who call themselves Brotherhood without Banners, led by the Catelyn Stark who now goes by the name Lady Stoneheart.

Brienne was asked to choose the sword or noose for Jaime. When she refused to choose, Brienne and Podrick were sentenced to be hanged. She finally chose the sword in order to save her companion.

In “A Dance with Dragons” Brienne spoke to Jaime at Pennytree and sought his help to rescue Sansa Stark from the Hound. The book ended with a cliff-hanger with regards to this character and their fate is expected to be revealed in “Winds of Winter.”