Sandor Clegane, also known as “The Hound,” is a fictional character in George R. R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” series of fantasy novels and its television adaptation, “Game of Thrones.”
Sandor Clegane comes from House Clegane, a noble house sworn to House Lannister. He is the younger brother of Ser Gregor Clegane, also known as “The Mountain.”
The Hound is known for his imposing size, physical strength, and fearsome appearance, as he bears facial scars from a childhood incident involving his brother. He is a skilled and brutal warrior, known for his proficiency with a sword and his ability to instill fear in his opponents.
Sandor Clegane Facts
- House Clegane: Sandor Clegane comes from House Clegane, a noble house sworn to House Lannister.
- Brotherly Rivalry: Sandor’s older brother is Gregor Clegane, known as The Mountain. They have a contentious and violent relationship.
- Facial Scars: Sandor bears distinctive facial scars from an incident in his childhood when his brother held his face in a fire.
- Fear-Inducing Appearance: The Hound’s imposing size, burned face, and fierce demeanor make him a fearsome sight on the battlefield.
- Swordsmanship: Sandor is a skilled warrior and a formidable swordsman. He is known for his brutal and direct fighting style.
- Loyalty to Joffrey: Sandor serves as a loyal protector and guard to Joffrey Baratheon, the eldest son of Queen Cersei.
- Protective of Sansa: The Hound develops a protective instinct towards Sansa Stark, often shielding her from harm and offering guidance.
- Feud with his Brother: Sandor harbors deep resentment and hatred towards his brother, Gregor, for the traumatic childhood incident.
- Fear of Fire: Due to the incident with fire in his past, Sandor has a deep fear and aversion to flames.
- Cynical Outlook: The Hound is known for his cynical and disillusioned worldview, seeing the world as a cruel and unjust place.
- Redemption Journey: Throughout the series, Sandor experiences moments of compassion and seeks redemption for his violent past.
- Arya Stark’s Companion: Sandor becomes an unlikely companion and mentor to Arya Stark, teaching her survival skills and imparting harsh life lessons.
- Survivor: The Hound manages to survive numerous battles and confrontations, showcasing his resilience and combat prowess.
- Confrontation with Brienne: Sandor engages in a brutal fight with Brienne of Tarth, resulting in a brutal and intense battle.
- Gravedigger Theory: In the books, a theory suggests that Sandor has adopted a new life as a gravedigger on the Quiet Isle, seeking solace and a fresh start.
- Distaste for Knights: Sandor harbors a strong dislike for knights and the idealized notion of chivalry.
- Cynical Wisdom: The Hound often shares blunt and cynical wisdom, providing a unique perspective on the world and its harsh realities.
- Return in the Great War: Sandor joins the fight against the White Walkers during the Great War, realizing the magnitude of the threat they pose.
- Face-off with his Brother: Sandor faces his long-standing nemesis, The Mountain, in an epic duel during the Battle of King’s Landing.
- Fate Uncertain: The ultimate fate of Sandor Clegane is left somewhat ambiguous in both the book series and the television adaptation.
- Cleganebowl: Sandor Clegane’s long-anticipated duel with his brother, Gregor Clegane, is often referred to by fans as “Cleganebowl.”
- Belief in the Gods: The Hound has a complex relationship with religion, expressing skepticism and disdain for the gods but also acknowledging their power.
- Travel Companion to Arya: Sandor becomes a travel companion to Arya Stark, forging a unique bond and sharing moments of mutual respect.
- Vengeance Against His Brother: The Hound harbors a deep desire for vengeance against his brother, seeking to finally defeat him in combat.
- Fearlessness: Sandor is known for his fearlessness in battle, often charging headfirst into dangerous situations without hesitation.
- Injury in the Battle of the Blackwater: Sandor sustains a severe injury during the Battle of the Blackwater, leading to a fear of fire and causing him to abandon his post.
- Encounter with Sansa and the Mob: The Hound rescues Sansa Stark from a violent mob during the riots in King’s Landing.
- Character Growth: Sandor experiences significant character growth throughout the series, evolving from a hardened warrior to someone with a glimmer of compassion and self-reflection.
- Reunion with Brienne: Sandor has a memorable reunion with Brienne of Tarth, showcasing a complex mix of rivalry, respect, and shared purpose.
- Redemption Through Helping Others: The Hound finds a sense of redemption by protecting and aiding those who are vulnerable or unjustly treated.