HS=HR: is the High Sparrow secretly Howland Reed?

Alt Shift X・2 minutes read

The High Sparrow is speculated to be Howland Reed, using his position to gain power and possibly seek vengeance against those who harmed the Starks, with evidence suggesting physical similarities and potential motivations, but challenges including Reed's absence and implausibility of the theory. Despite tantalizing facts, the theory lacks strong evidence and is likely untrue, with alternative scenarios suggesting Reed may be supporting Jon Snow's claim to the North behind the scenes.

Insights

  • Howland Reed, the last survivor of the Tower of Joy fight, holds crucial knowledge about Jon Snow's true parentage, making him a pivotal figure in the overarching narrative of the story.
  • The HS=HR theory proposing that the High Sparrow is Howland Reed, aiming to gain power and seek vengeance, faces challenges due to logistical inconsistencies and lacks substantial evidence, suggesting it may not hold true in the complex web of Game of Thrones narratives.

Get key ideas from YouTube videos. It’s free

Recent questions

  • Who is the High Septon?

    A religious leader in Westeros.

  • What is the HS=HR theory?

    A theory suggesting the High Septon is Howland Reed.

  • What is the Faith Militant?

    A religious military order in Westeros.

  • Who is Howland Reed?

    The Lord of Greywater Watch.

  • What is the significance of the High Sparrow?

    A powerful figure in King's Landing.

Related videos

Summary

00:00

"High Sparrow: Howland Reed's Secret Identity"

  • HS=HR theory posits that the current High Septon is actually Howland Reed, Lord of Greywater Watch in the Neck, father of Meera and Jojen Reed, and a close friend of Eddard Stark during Robert's Rebellion.
  • Howland Reed is the last survivor of the Tower of Joy fight, making him the only living person aware of Jon Snow's true parentage as the son of Rhaegar and Lyanna.
  • Despite his significance, Howland Reed has not played a prominent role in the story yet, with Robb Stark acknowledging his worth but no significant actions taken by him.
  • The High Septon, leader of the Faith of the Seven, is usually elected by high-ranking clergy and is considered God's voice on Earth, with the current High Sparrow rising to power through a popular religious movement of Sparrows.
  • HS=HR theory suggests that the High Sparrow is secretly Howland Reed, using the position to gain power and potentially seek vengeance against those who harmed the Starks.
  • The High Sparrow successfully negotiates for the reinstatement of the Faith Militant, arresting key figures like Margaery Tyrell and Cersei Lannister, showcasing his growing power and influence.
  • The High Sparrow's actions have destabilized the Lannister regime, with many individuals in King's Landing supporting him, leading to speculation about his future plans and potential control over the Iron Throne.
  • Evidence supporting the HS=HR theory includes physical similarities between the High Sparrow and the crannogmen, as well as potential magical connections and knowledge that could motivate Howland Reed's actions.
  • However, challenges to the theory include Howland Reed's absence from the Neck during crucial times, the cultural and religious differences between the crannogmen and the Faith of the Seven, and the implausibility of his elaborate plan to become High Septon.
  • Alternative scenarios suggest that Howland Reed may be working behind the scenes in the North to support Jon Snow's claim to the North, with Bran's visions likely to reveal Jon's parentage in a more straightforward manner.

10:44

"High Sparrow Theory: Unlikely and Unsupported"

  • Howland Reed as High Sparrow theory lacks strong evidence and is implausible
  • Tantalizing facts somewhat support the theory but are also compatible with the simpler explanation
  • The theory is interesting but likely untrue
Channel avatarChannel avatarChannel avatarChannel avatarChannel avatar

Try it yourself — It’s free.