Introduction to Handmaidens in Westeros

In the mythical world of Westeros, the noblewomen who wield power and influence often have handmaidens as part of their retinue. These attendants play crucial roles in the personal and public lives of their noble charges, often serving as confidants, personal assistants, and secretaries. The presence of handmaidens is a marker of a noblewoman's status and wealth, as the cost of maintaining a handmaiden is considerable.

Common Roles of Handmaidens

Handmaidens in Westeros serve multiple functions that are essential to maintaining the household and personal needs of their noble patrons. Their duties include:

Personal Attendants: Handmaidens assist in the daily routines of their noble lady, from morning preparations like getting dressed and having baths to more complex tasks like arranging social events and managing household affairs. Confidantes and Advisors: They offer advice and support to their noblewomen, sharing confidential information and providing emotional support. Entertainers and Companions: Handmaidens often participate in social and public gatherings, both to enhance the image of their noble patrons and to serve as social skills practice for the handmaidens themselves.

These roles highlight the complex interplay between the status and responsibilities of noblewomen and the attendant handmaidens who serve them.

Examples of Noblewomen and Their Handmaidens

The narratives of Westeros are filled with examples of noblewomen who have handmaidens, each embodying different levels of power, influence, and the significance of their attendants. Here are a few prominent examples:

Margaery Tyrell: Known for her intricate court maneuvering, Margaery Tyrell has multiple handmaidens, including her close friend and confidante. This is evident in A Clash of Kings and A Storm of Swords. Cersei Lannister: As one of the most powerful women in King's Landing, Cersei Lannister has handmaidens who assist her in her royal duties and personal life, particularly during her time as queen. Sansa Stark: After Sansa Stark's journey in the northern court, she has a couple of handmaidens including Shae and others who help her navigate life in the courts, before they are tragically killed by King Joffrey's guards. Catelyn Stark: Catelyn Stark, a prominent figure in the north, is often seen with her handmaidens, though their roles are not as prominently featured as in the cases of Margaery or Cersei. Lysa Arryn: Lysa Arryn, the wife of Lord Petyr Baelish, also has handmaidens, although their roles are less emphasized in the narrative. Lady Olenna Tyrell: As a powerful figure, Lady Olenna Tyrell has attendants who serve her, though they may not be referred to as handmaidens in the same way as those serving younger noblewomen.

The Divergence in Experiences

While many noblewomen do have handmaidens, the extent to which they are featured in the story varies. Characters like Catelyn Stark and Lysa Arryn do have handmaidens, but the focus on their roles can differ based on the narrative needs of the story. This divergence in experience reflects the varied social statuses and authority levels of the noblewomen.

The Supporting Role of Handmaidens in Royal Houses

In the grand courtly life, noblewomen from royal houses have handmaidens known as ladies-in-waiting. These attendants are not just companions but are also trusted confidants of the queen, working in tandem with her to manage the complexities of royal life.

Examples of Royal Handmaidens: Lady Lysa Tully/Arryn/Baelish: When Lysa Arryn marries Petyr Baelish, she has three handmaidens accompanying her to the marriage bed and continues to have these attendants in the castle until her untimely death. Lady Sansa Stark: After her initial handmaidens are killed by King Joffrey, Sansa is given new ladies-in-waiting by the Queen Regent, who use them as spies to keep a close eye on her. Queen Cersei Lannister: Cersei Lannister has handmaidens, including three ladies-in-waiting, each with their own roles in the grand court of King's Landing. Queen Margaery Tyrell: Margaery Tyrell brings her own handmaidens from the Tyrell entourage when she arrives in King's Landing to marry King Joffrey. Lady Olenna Redwyne/Tyrell: Olenna Tyrell also has a couple of handmaidens, though their roles are not as prominently featured. Queen Daenerys Targaryen: Even in Meereen, Daenerys Targaryen has handmaidens, one of whom is her friend Missandei from Naath.

Conclusion

The experience of having handmaidens varies widely among the noblewomen of Westeros. While many noblewomen benefit from the services and support of their attendants, the extent to which these relationships are explored and detailed is influenced by the narrative and thematic requirements of the story. This wide divergence in experiences underscores the rich tapestry of social dynamics and the complexities of noblewomen's lives in the realm of Westeros.