Barristan Selmy (Game of Thrones)

Ser Barristan Selmy is a renowned knight and Lord Commander of the Kingsguard. During his long life he has had many opportunities to earn his epithet: "Barristan the Bold".

Background
Ser Barristan served in the Kingsguard under the Mad King, Aerys II. Unlike fellow survivor Jaime Lannister, Barristan remained loyal to the throne during Robert's Rebellion and was pardoned by King Robert after the war.

Major Plots
Following Robert's death, Barristan's reputation for honor and integrity makes him the man Eddard Stark trusts to read Robert's will to the court. He is visibly shocked when Queen Cersei destroys the document, flagrantly disregarding her late husband's wishes. Barristan is subsequently dismissed from the Kingsguard by King Joffrey. This is an unprecedented move - knights of the Kingsguard serve for life - but the king feels Barristan is too old to be of service, and that Jaime would make a stronger Lord Commander. Barristan, enraged, removes his ceremonial armour, throws down his sword and storms from the room.