How Old is Gendry in Game of Thrones?
Game of Thrones has captivated viewers with its intricate plot and complex characters. One of the intriguing aspects regarding Gendry is his age. Throughout the series and the books, there are inconsistencies about the exact age of this beloved character. This article aims to provide a comprehensive analysis based on the information available.
Age in the Books: A Clash of Kings
George R.R. Martin, the author of the Song of Ice and Fire series, establishes Gendry's age in the book A Clash of Kings. According to the text, Gendry is stated to be five years older than Arya Stark. Arya is approximately ten years old when she meets Gendry, making him a bit younger than fifteen. Martin is known for his detailed background information and character ages, making this a reliable source.
Age in the Show: Television Adaptation
On the television adaptation of Game of Thrones, the actors' ages deviate from the books. Joe Dempsie, who portrays Gendry, looks significantly older than his character. He is often considered to be in his mid-thirties, while Gendry is supposed to be around 23-24 years old. This discrepancy is not uncommon in TV shows, where actors may be chosen based on their physical appearance rather than their true age.
Character's Background: Blacksmith Tobho Mott
Despite the young age attributed to Gendry in the books, it is mentioned that he has worked for the blacksmith Tobho Mott for ten years. This detail can be puzzling; however, it is not inconceivable that apprenticeships in the world of Game of Thrones begin at a young age. It is also possible that Gendry started his apprenticeship earlier, making him appear older than his actual age.
Fast Forwarding from the Books
Fast forwarding from the events of the books, we can determine that Gendry is likely around 20 when the series progresses. Similarly, Arya Stark would be approximately 14 years old. This timeline aligns with the progression of the story and character development in the show, reflecting the ages provided by George R.R. Martin in the books.
Conclusion
The age of Gendry in Game of Thrones is a subject of both speculation and canon information. While the books provide a clear timeline, the show's adaptations may lead to some discrepancies due to casting choices and character portrayal. Understanding the context and detail from the books helps in accurately interpreting the character's age and background in the series.