At a Glance
- Episode title Hard Salt Beef showcases Dunk’s quest for a sponsor.
- Ser Arlan of Pennytree appears in a surprising scene.
- Dunk interacts with Targaryen nobles and gets a chance to join the tournament.
Why it matters: The episode deepens Dunk’s backstory and sets up potential alliances with House Targaryen.
Ser Duncan the Tall’s latest episode, “Hard Salt Beef,” follows the hedge knight as he desperately seeks a sponsor to enter the Ashford Meadow tournament. The episode is packed with humor, awkward moments, and a surprising nod to Dunk’s former master, Ser Arlan of Pennytree. It also introduces key Targaryen figures, giving the series a new political angle.
Episode Overview
The episode opens with Dunk reluctantly allowing the young, bald boy Egg to serve as his squire. Dunk’s main goal is to find a lord who will vouch for him, hoping that Ser Arlan’s legacy will be enough to secure entry. While searching, Dunk encounters the Targaryen contingent led by Baelor, the Hand of the King. Their arrival brings a new set of challenges and opportunities for Dunk.
Key Moments
- Ser Arlan’s Return: The episode features a shocking appearance by Ser Arlan of Pennytree, who emerges from a shack, fully naked, and takes a leisurely whizz. The scene is crude but memorable, underscoring the show’s irreverent tone.
- Dunk’s Plea: Dunk explains to Baelor that he needs a sponsor. Baelor, remembering Ser Arlan’s reputation, offers Dunk a place in the tournament.
- Tanselle’s Design: Dunk meets the puppet maker Tanselle, who suggests an elm tree with a shooting star for his new shield.
- Armor Negotiation: Dunk visits an armorer who offers to outfit him for 800 stags. The armorer agrees to lower the price after Dunk trades in one of Ser Arlan’s old pieces.
Character Dynamics
Dunk and Egg
Egg’s frustration is palpable when Dunk repeatedly faces rejection from nobles. Egg asks, “Why do you treat these royal lapdogs like they’re your betters?” Dunk responds, “They are my betters.” The exchange highlights Egg’s loyalty and Dunk’s stubborn pride.
Dunk and the Targaryens
Baelor’s polite demeanor contrasts with Maekar’s rudeness. Maekar mutters about his missing sons, while Baelor remains calm. Dunk’s presence interrupts the tension, and Baelor’s memory of Ser Arlan eases the conversation.
Dunk and Tanselle
When Dunk asks Tanselle to paint a new shield design, she jokes, “The boys used to call me Tanselle Too-Tall.” Dunk awkwardly compliments her, turning the moment into a comedic exchange.
Dunk and the Armorer
The armorer, named Steely Pate, is gruff but fair. He accepts Dunk’s two stags as a deposit and helps him trade in old armor. Dunk reluctantly sells one of his beloved horses to cover the cost.
Reception and Impact
The episode blends slapstick humor with deeper themes of loyalty and legacy. Dunk’s reflection on Ser Arlan-“He had no friends either. He lived nigh on 60 years and never was a champion”-adds a layer of melancholy to the otherwise comedic tone. The audience is left wondering whether Dunk will succeed in his quest and whether House Targaryen will indeed take him under their wing.
The show’s producers have indicated that the Targaryen storyline will continue in future episodes, potentially setting up a larger narrative arc. Fans are excited to see how Dunk’s relationship with the Targaryens develops.
Key Takeaways
- Dunk’s search for a sponsor drives the episode’s plot.
- Ser Arlan’s cameo provides a humorous but pivotal moment.
- The Targaryen house offers a new political dimension.
- Dunk’s interactions with Egg, Tanselle, and the armorer showcase his growth.
- The episode ends with Dunk hopeful that House Targaryen may eventually welcome him.
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms continues to premiere new episodes on Sunday on HBO and HBO Max. Fans can catch the next episode to see how Dunk’s journey unfolds.
