Jeor Mormont took the black, joining the Night's Watch, primarily for two significant reasons: to allow his son to assume lordship of Bear Island and to actively contribute to the protection of the realm from wildlings. His decision was rooted in a blend of familial duty and a broader sense of responsibility for the safety of Westeros.
Key Motivations Behind Jeor Mormont's Decision
Jeor Mormont's choice to abandon his noble title and command of Bear Island for the vows of the Night's Watch was a pivotal moment in his life and had considerable implications for his family. His motivations can be understood through the following points:
- Succession for His Son, Jorah: Jeor believed it was the appropriate time for his son, Jorah Mormont, to step into his rightful place as the Lord of Bear Island. By taking the black, Jeor effectively abdicated his lordship, paving the way for Jorah to inherit the ancestral seat and responsibilities. This ensured the continuity of the Mormont line's leadership in the family's traditional lands.
- Protection of the Realm from Wildlings: Jeor saw joining the Night's Watch as the most effective way to safeguard his people and the wider realm from the constant threat posed by the wildlings beyond the Wall. The Night's Watch, sworn to defend the Seven Kingdoms against dangers from the north, offered him a direct means to contribute to this vital defense. He likely believed that his experience and leadership could be best utilized in this capacity to protect the realm from this specific menace.
These two primary reasons underscore his dedication both to his family's future and to the greater good of Westeros.
Summary of Jeor Mormont's Reasons
| Reason for Taking the Black | Underlying Goal / Implication |
|---|---|
| Paving the Way for Jorah | Allowed his son to become Lord of Bear Island, ensuring family succession. |
| Protecting Against Wildlings | Joined the Night's Watch, seen as the most effective means to defend the realm from northern threats. |
Ultimately, Jeor Mormont's decision was a strategic move that served both his personal conviction about his son's readiness for leadership and his deep-seated desire to protect the people of Westeros from the threats lurking beyond the Wall.
