A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms Episode 1 Recap: Dunk’s life before Knighthood explained

The highly anticipated Game of Thrones spin-off A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms premiered on HBO on January 18, 2026, kicking off with the episode titled “The Hedge Knight”. Set roughly a century before the main series, this fresh take on George R.R. Martin’s Tales of Dunk and Egg novellas brings a lighter, more character-driven vibe to Westeros. The premiere introduces viewers to Ser Duncan the Tall (played by Peter Claffey) — or simply Dunk — a towering, good-hearted hedge knight whose humble beginnings make him one of the most relatable heroes in the Game of Thrones universe.

This episode sets the stage for Dunk’s journey from an unknown wanderer to a legendary figure. Let’s break down the key moments from Episode 1 and explore who Dunk really is before the world knows his name.

Episode 1 Overview: “The Hedge Knight”

The premiere opens with a somber scene: Dunk digging a grave for his mentor, Ser Arlan of Pennytree, a hedge knight who recently passed away. Arlan, on his deathbed, knighted Dunk (though some question if it was fully official). With no master left and no lands to claim, Dunk decides to honor his mentor by entering a grand tournament at Ashford Meadow — a chance to prove himself and make a name.

On the road to Ashford, Dunk stops at an inn where he meets a mysterious, bald boy with striking indigo eyes who calls himself Egg. The boy, full of spunk and secrets, insists on becoming Dunk’s squire. Dunk, thinking Egg is just a stableboy or runaway, reluctantly agrees — and their unlikely partnership begins.

The episode follows Dunk as he navigates the bustling tournament grounds, registers for the joust, and encounters a mix of nobles, knights, and common folk. Highlights include a memorable, joyful dance scene with Ser Lyonel Baratheon (Daniel Ings) that steals the spotlight, and tense interactions with members of House Targaryen. The tone feels lighter and more grounded than previous Game of Thrones entries, focusing on honor, friendship, and small acts of kindness amid the spectacle of Westeros.

Who Is Dunk Before He Becomes a Legend?

Before he earns the title Ser Duncan the Tall, Dunk is a lowborn orphan from the slums of Flea Bottom in King’s Landing — the poorest, most dangerous part of the capital. He grew up as a street urchin, surviving on scraps and whatever mischief he could get into. Dunk has no memory of his parents and no noble blood in his veins. His only advantage? His massive size and strength — already over six feet tall as a teenager.

Dunk’s life changed when Ser Arlan of Pennytree, a wandering hedge knight (a knight without a lord or land), took him on as a squire. Arlan taught Dunk the ways of knighthood: swordplay, jousting, and the code of honor. For years, they traveled together, taking odd jobs and entering tournaments for coin.

After Arlan’s death, Dunk inherits his armor, horse, and sigil. He adopts the name Ser Duncan the Tall and sets out to live as a true knight — honorable, protective, and fiercely loyal. He’s not the sharpest with politics or court intrigue, but his heart is in the right place. Dunk values doing what’s right over personal gain, making him stand out in a world full of schemers.

In Episode 1, viewers see the early Dunk: awkward, earnest, and determined. He’s not yet the legendary Kingsguard commander he’ll become, but the seeds of his greatness are clear.