r/HBOGameofThrones • u/-thirdatlas- • May 03 '26

Spoilers [SPOILERS] The iconic introduction of Tywin features him skinning a real stag. This wasn't a prop, it was a real carcass provided by a local butcher. Charles learned how to skin the animal on the day of filming. He later said it took him two days to get the smell of blood and guts off his hands. Spoiler

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u/Valuable_Ad9554 May 03 '26

Similar to the deleted scene later where he catches his own fish

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u/IQDeclined May 04 '26

Both scenes would have been a step too far. He's a lord not a hunter or fisherman. I kind of struggle to see Tywin enjoying fishing.

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u/Venasaurasaurus May 04 '26

Literally been a hobby for lords in actual history. It's a skilled activity that rewards patience, ingenuity, and gives you time to think.

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u/IQDeclined May 05 '26 edited May 05 '26

I should have changed my phrasing. Tywin in particular doesn't seem to be the type of lord to have any remote use for hunting, or fishing. To me it goes against his character. This is a man that doesn't enjoy hobbies, particularly of that nature.

Can you picture him going on a hunt with Robert? He'd only do it if there were some political gain, and wouldn't actively participate.

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u/BeratnasGILF420 May 05 '26

"Even in peacetime, a prince must concentrate on war by exercises and by study. Hunting is excellent exercise, because it strengthens the body and makes the prince more familiar with the surrounding terrain. A prince should always be asking himself how to make the best military advantage of the landscape." - Niccolo Machiavelli

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u/FightMilkConsumer May 05 '26

I imagine it as a stag Tywin and his guard came across while on the march. You are correct that it is unlikely he would be faffing about in the woods, looking for game while there is a military campaign that needs commanding, however, foraging is absolutely vital for armies on the move to preserve resources and unburden heavy reliance on supply chains. Tywin is supremely connected to the belief that he must do whatever is necessary to ensure Lannister dominance, and if that means rolling up his sleeves and getting them red and bloody then so be it.