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  === Samwell Tarly ===
  Samwell Tarly, called 'Sam', is the elder son of Lord Randyll Tarly of Horn Hill. Ten chapters throughout ''A Storm of Swords'' and ''A Feast for Crows'' are told from his point of view. In spite of his self-professed cowardice, Sam is highly intelligent, resourceful, and loyal. Sam's complete lack of martial abilities and his interest in scholarly pursuits convinces his father that he is not a worthy heir and he is forced to join the Night's Watch.
  In the HBO television adaptation, he is portrayed by John Bradley.