Watch an Animated Retelling of Robert’s Rebellion Narrated by Barristan the Bold

A new History and Lore feature from the Game of Thrones Season 5 Blu-ray boxset has hit the internet, fresh on the heels of the one about the Many-Faced God. Now, we have the tale of one of the most important events in Westerosi history, the War of the Usurper, Robert’s Rebellion, as told by Barristan “the Bold” Selmy. The History and Lore features are often highlights of the season boxsets, and it doesn’t look like this new one will disappoint. This one was posted by Elio García of Westeros.org. Check it out:

How great is it to hear Ser Grandfather’s voice again? Rest in peace, Barry, you were taken from us too soon…but I digress. I like that this story didn’t focus on the Baratheons or the Starks—we’ve already had those perspectives on Robert’s Rebellion in previous History and Lore videos. This one stuck closely to Barristan’s story, which meant that it focused on the Targaryen side of the conflict.

It was particularly nice to both see and hear how Barristan personally felt he was a failed Kingsguard. Arguably one of the greatest and most legendary Kingsguard in Westerosi history feels like he failed every king he ever served, and the prince who was to be king. This video had it all, from a brief glance at the War of the Ninepenny Kings and Maelys the Monstrous to a look at the young Aerys Targaryen’s happy rule before he went mad, plus a quick glance at a young Varys around 3:45. Then came the Tourney at Harrenhal, and Westeros was once again drawn into war.

The sadness in Barristan’s voice over watching Rhaegar die under Robert’s warhammer is heartbreaking, and the hope in his voice at the chance at redemption in protecting Daenerys is really what makes this video so special. Ian McElhinney really was the perfect choice for Barristan the Bold. Game of Thrones will not be the same without him.