Game of Thrones season 4 episode 9 Recap and FAQ

Episode Summary

"The Watchers on the Wall" showcases the Night's Watch's valiant defense against the wildling invasion. Jon Snow and Sam discuss love and duty, highlighting their personal journeys. Gilly's return to Castle Black adds a human element amidst the chaos. The battle intensifies with giants and mammoths assaulting the Wall. Key moments include Grenn's heroic sacrifice at the inner gate and Ygritte's poignant death in Jon's arms. The episode culminates in Jon's risky decision to seek out and kill Mance Rayder, aiming to disband the wildling army.

Full Episode S04E09 Recap

### The Night's Watch Prepares for Battle - **Setting the Scene**: As the Night's Watch braces for the wildling attack, Jon Snow and Samwell Tarly have a heart-to-heart about love and loss. - Sam is curious about Jon's experience with Ygritte, leading to a discussion about love and vows. - Maester Aemon and Sam talk about love and duty, revealing Aemon's past as a Targaryen. - **Gilly's Return**: Gilly arrives at Castle Black, seeking refuge from the wildlings' massacre. - Despite initial reluctance, the gate is opened for her, and she reunites with Sam. - Sam promises to always protect her and her baby. ### The Battle at Castle Black Begins - **Initial Assault**: The Night's Watch faces the wildling army, including giants and mammoths. - Ser Alliser Thorne leads the defense, motivating his men with a rousing speech. - Jon takes command of the Wall's defenses, coordinating the Night's Watch's efforts. - Pyp and Sam fight bravely but Pyp is tragically killed. ### Heroic Stands and Sacrifices - **Grenn's Last Stand**: Grenn leads a group to defend the inner gate from a giant, reciting the Night's Watch oath. - They succeed but at the cost of their lives. - **Jon's Leadership**: Jon descends from the Wall to lead the fight directly. - He faces Tormund Giantsbane in combat, eventually capturing him. - **Ygritte's Death**: Ygritte dies in Jon's arms, reminiscing about their time together. - Her last words to Jon are, "You know nothing, Jon Snow." ### Aftermath and a New Plan - **Regrouping**: The Night's Watch assesses the situation after repelling the wildlings for one night. - Jon decides to seek out Mance Rayder, believing his death will disband the wildling army. - Sam gives Jon advice and reluctantly agrees to his plan. ### Jon's Departure - **Jon's Mission**: Jon leaves Castle Black to find Mance Rayder, understanding the risks involved. - He leaves Longclaw with Sam as a precaution, in case he doesn't return. - The episode ends with Jon venturing into the unknown, determined to end the wildling threat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Sam and Jon discuss before the battle?

They talked about love, vows, and experiences with women.

Who is Maester Aemon and what revelation does he share with Sam?

Maester Aemon is a Targaryen who once had a chance at the throne and was in love.

How does Gilly return to Castle Black?

Gilly arrives seeking refuge after surviving a wildling attack.

What role does Ser Alliser Thorne play in the battle?

Ser Alliser leads the defense of Castle Black and delivers a motivational speech.

How does Pyp die?

Pyp is killed during the battle against the wildlings.

Who leads a group to defend the inner gate from a giant?

Grenn leads the group to defend the inner gate.

What happens to Ygritte during the battle?

Ygritte is fatally shot by an arrow and dies in Jon's arms.

What is Jon Snow's plan after the battle?

Jon plans to find and kill Mance Rayder to disband the wildling army.

Why does Jon leave his sword, Longclaw, at Castle Black?

Jon leaves Longclaw with Sam as a precaution in case he doesn't return.

What are Ygritte's last words to Jon Snow?

Ygritte's last words are "You know nothing, Jon Snow."

How does the Night's Watch initially respond to the wildling attack?

They organize defenses and fight bravely against the wildlings, including giants and mammoths.

What is the outcome of the battle at Castle Black?

The Night's Watch manages to repel the wildlings for one night.

Who kills Ygritte?

Ygritte is killed by an arrow shot by Olly, a young member of the Night's Watch.

What vow does Grenn recite before his last stand?

Grenn recites the Night's Watch oath before his heroic stand against the giant.

What is the state of Castle Black after the battle?

Castle Black is battered but standing, with the Night's Watch regrouping for further assaults.

Game of Thrones season 4 episode 9

The Watchers on the Wall