The finale of Game of Thrones, “The Iron Throne,” saw Daenerys Targaryen’s reign of terror cut short by Jon Snow, leading to Bran Stark’s unexpected ascension to the throne, a controversial resolution that left many viewers divided. This conclusion marked the end of an era, reshaping the political landscape of Westeros in ways both predictable and profoundly jarring.
The Fall of the Dragon Queen: A Necessary Evil or Character Assassination?
The episode opened with the chilling aftermath of Daenerys’ scorched-earth victory over King’s Landing. Her transformation into a ruthless tyrant, foreshadowed throughout the season, reached its devastating climax. Grey Worm, now fanatically loyal to Dany, executes prisoners, showcasing the absolute power Daenerys wielded. Jon Snow, torn between his love for her and his horror at her actions, grapples with the moral implications of his allegiance.
The tension boils over as Daenerys expresses her intention to liberate the rest of the world, cementing her position as a force of unwavering, albeit misguided, benevolence. Tyrion, after a final plea to reason with her, resigns as Hand of the Queen and is imprisoned. In a heart-wrenching scene, Tyrion convinces Jon that Daenerys’ reign would be catastrophic for Westeros.
The climax arrives when Jon confronts Daenerys in the throne room. After a moment of intimacy and a desperate attempt to appeal to her former self, Jon fatally stabs Daenerys, preventing her from continuing her reign of terror. Drogon’s reaction to her death, a visceral display of grief, is arguably one of the episode’s most powerful moments. He melts the Iron Throne, symbolizing the futility of the power struggle that had consumed the series, and carries Daenerys’ body away.
A New Dawn for Westeros: The Emergence of King Bran
The episode then shifts to the aftermath of Daenerys’ death. Tyrion, still imprisoned, argues for a new form of governance before a council of Westeros’ most influential figures, including Sansa, Arya, Bran, and representatives from Dorne and other regions. The fate of Jon Snow, the Kinslayer, hangs in the balance.
Tyrion proposes that Bran Stark, the Three-Eyed Raven, become the new king. He argues that Bran’s unique ability to remember the past makes him the ideal ruler. This proposal, though logical to Tyrion, felt deeply unsatisfying to many viewers. Sansa, securing the independence of the North, is a notable exception.
Bran accepts the role, and the council agrees to a new system of elective monarchy, where future rulers will be chosen by a council of lords and ladies. Jon Snow is sentenced to return to the Night’s Watch, effectively exiled for killing Daenerys. Tyrion is appointed Hand of the King, tasked with rebuilding Westeros.
The episode concludes with a series of epilogues: Arya sails west of Westeros to explore the unknown, Sansa reigns as Queen in the North, and Jon Snow reunites with Ghost and the Wildlings beyond the Wall. The Small Council is convened, featuring Bronn, Brienne, Davos, and Samwell Tarly, signaling a new era of cooperation and (hopefully) competent governance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Game of Thrones Finale
What was the biggest criticism of Daenerys’s ending?
Many viewers felt Daenerys’ descent into madness was rushed and unearned, a deviation from her previously established character. They argued that her actions in King’s Landing felt contrived and lacked the nuanced development necessary to make her transformation believable. The perceived character assassination overshadowed the potential tragedy of her fall.
Why did Drogon melt the Iron Throne?
Drogon’s destruction of the Iron Throne wasn’t an act of vengeance against it; it was an act of profound grief. He destroyed the symbol of power that ultimately led to his mother’s death. It’s interpreted as a realization that the pursuit of power and the Iron Throne were the corrupting influences that ultimately destroyed Daenerys.
Why was Bran chosen as King?
Tyrion argued that Bran’s ability to remember the past made him the ideal ruler, free from personal ambition and motivated solely by the good of the realm. While this rationale sounds logical, many viewers found it underwhelming, arguing that Bran lacked the charisma and leadership qualities necessary for a king. His emotional detachment and passive nature were also points of contention.
What was the significance of Jon being sent back to the Night’s Watch?
Jon’s exile to the Night’s Watch was a compromise. It was a punishment that prevented a war with Daenerys’ loyalists (represented by Grey Worm) while also acknowledging the gravity of his actions. Sending him back to the Wall allowed him to return to a life away from the political intrigue he never truly desired. It also allowed him to find peace beyond the Wall, a return to his roots.
Why did Sansa insist on the North’s independence?
Sansa, having witnessed the suffering and hardship of the North, felt it was essential to secure its independence. She believed that the North could only truly prosper if it governed itself and was not subject to the whims of the Iron Throne. This decision reflected her growth throughout the series, demonstrating her political acumen and commitment to her people.
What happened to Tyrion after Daenerys’ death?
Tyrion, despite his betrayal of Daenerys, was spared execution and appointed Hand of the King by Bran. This decision acknowledges his strategic brilliance and experience, recognizing that he is essential for rebuilding Westeros. It’s a testament to Tyrion’s enduring value and ability to serve even after significant failures.
What was the purpose of Arya sailing west of Westeros?
Arya’s decision to explore west of Westeros reflects her adventurous spirit and yearning for the unknown. She embodies the spirit of exploration and discovery, a desire to chart new territories and push the boundaries of the known world. This ending suggests a future where Westeros isn’t confined to its own borders.
Who were the members of the new Small Council?
The new Small Council consisted of Tyrion Lannister (Hand of the King), Bronn of the Blackwater (Master of Coin), Brienne of Tarth (Lord Commander of the Kingsguard), Davos Seaworth (Master of Ships), and Samwell Tarly (Grand Maester). This diverse group represents a shift towards meritocracy and a more pragmatic approach to governance.
Was Jon’s true parentage ultimately irrelevant?
Many viewers felt that the revelation of Jon’s Targaryen heritage, a significant plot point throughout the series, ultimately felt inconsequential in the finale. His claim to the throne was never fully explored, and his decision to kill Daenerys was driven more by morality than ambition. This perceived lack of payoff was a major criticism.
What lessons did the finale try to convey?
The finale attempted to convey several lessons, including the dangers of unchecked power, the importance of empathy and compassion, and the need for just and equitable governance. However, the execution of these themes was often criticized as being heavy-handed and lacking nuance.
Why was the ending so divisive?
The Game of Thrones finale was divisive due to a combination of factors, including perceived character inconsistencies, rushed plot developments, unsatisfying resolutions, and unrealistic dialogue. Many viewers felt that the ending failed to live up to the high standards set by earlier seasons and that the show’s complex narratives were sacrificed for the sake of a tidy conclusion.
Will there ever be a “definitive” version of the Game of Thrones ending?
While HBO is developing various Game of Thrones spin-offs, it’s unlikely there will ever be a true “definitive” remake or re-editing of the original finale. The existing ending is now a permanent part of television history, despite its controversial reception. Future adaptations of the source material in other mediums, such as the books (if completed), may offer alternative conclusions, but the TV show ending remains unchanged.