The Game of Thrones finale, “The Iron Throne,” concluded the epic saga with a mixture of shocking twists, bittersweet resolutions, and ultimately, a deeply divided fan base. Daenerys Targaryen’s reign of fire led to her assassination at the hands of Jon Snow, resulting in a council of Westerosi lords and ladies electing Bran Stark as their king, ushering in a new era of representative governance.
The Ashes of King’s Landing: A Catalyst for Change
Episode 6 opens amidst the smoldering ruins of King’s Landing, a stark testament to Daenerys Targaryen’s descent into madness. Her unwavering belief that she was liberating the world, despite the horrific cost, is on full display. Jon Snow, torn between his love for Daenerys and his horror at her actions, grapples with the impossible decision before him. Tyrion Lannister, heartbroken by the devastation and the execution of Varys, resigns as Hand of the Queen. He later confronts Daenerys, pleading with her to show mercy and embrace diplomacy, but his pleas fall on deaf ears. Daenerys, convinced that she is destined to break the wheel and create a new world order through fear and power, reaffirms her commitment to liberation, even if it means more bloodshed.
The episode culminates in the momentous decision of Jon Snow, a choice born from his oath to protect the realm and his inability to reconcile his love for Daenerys with the tyrant she has become. He confronts her in the throne room, professing his love before plunging a dagger into her heart. This act of regicide marks the end of Daenerys’s reign and throws the future of Westeros into further uncertainty.
The King Chosen: Bran the Broken
Following Daenerys’s death, the lords and ladies of Westeros gather to decide the fate of Jon Snow and, more importantly, the future of the Seven Kingdoms (now six, following the North’s secession). Tyrion, now a prisoner himself, argues that traditional notions of succession have failed and proposes a radical new system: a council of lords and ladies selecting the monarch. He nominates Bran Stark, citing his ability to remember all of history and his detachment from personal ambition, making him a uniquely qualified and unbiased ruler.
Surprisingly, the suggestion gains traction. Sansa Stark, representing the North, initially objects, but ultimately secures independence for her region. One by one, the assembled leaders voice their support for Bran, solidifying his unexpected ascension to the Iron Throne. The North remains an independent kingdom, ruled by Sansa, while the remaining six kingdoms are united under the rule of Bran the Broken.
The Aftermath: Justice and New Beginnings
With Bran on the throne, justice is dispensed. Jon Snow, despite saving Westeros from Daenerys, is sentenced to return to the Night’s Watch, effectively exiled from the political landscape. Tyrion is named Hand of the King, tasked with rebuilding the realm and guiding the new ruler.
The episode concludes with a sense of cautious optimism. Bran, though an unconventional choice, represents a departure from the bloody cycles of power that have plagued Westeros for centuries. Jon, while condemned to a life of service, finds solace in the familiar landscapes of the North, alongside Tormund Giantsbane and Ghost. Arya Stark embarks on an adventure to explore the unknown lands west of Westeros, fulfilling her desire for exploration. The small council, comprised of Tyrion, Bronn (Master of Coin), Brienne of Tarth (Lord Commander of the Kingsguard), and Davos Seaworth (Master of Ships), represents a new era of pragmatic and collaborative governance. While the ending was controversial, it undeniably closed the chapter on a cultural phenomenon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What was the overall reaction to the Game of Thrones finale?
The reception was overwhelmingly negative and divisive. Many viewers felt that the rushed pacing, character inconsistencies, and perceived lack of resolution for key storylines undermined the show’s legacy. The finale was heavily criticized on social media and review platforms, and online petitions demanding a remake of the final season garnered significant attention. While some appreciated the bittersweet nature of the ending, the dominant sentiment was disappointment.
Why did Jon Snow kill Daenerys?
Jon Snow killed Daenerys because he realized that she had become a tyrant, posing a greater threat to Westeros than even the Night King. He was torn between his love for her and his duty to protect the realm from her increasingly ruthless ambition. After witnessing her slaughter of King’s Landing, Jon concluded that she was beyond redemption and that her reign would only lead to more violence and oppression. His oath to protect the realm outweighed his personal feelings.
Why was Bran Stark chosen as king?
Bran was chosen as king because Tyrion argued that he was the most qualified to rule, being free from ambition and possessing the collective memory of history. His detachment from personal desires and his vast knowledge made him a neutral and insightful leader. The lords and ladies of Westeros, tired of the endless power struggles, agreed that Bran represented a new and less corruptible form of governance. His ability to “see everything” was seen as a valuable asset.
Why did Sansa Stark demand independence for the North?
Sansa demanded independence for the North because she believed that the North had suffered enough and deserved to govern itself, free from the interference of the Iron Throne. She felt that the Northerners had a distinct culture and values that were not always understood or respected by the Southern kingdoms. Her primary concern was the well-being and autonomy of her people, and she saw independence as the best way to ensure their continued prosperity. Her loyalty lay first and foremost with the North.
What happened to Tyrion Lannister after the finale?
Tyrion Lannister was appointed Hand of the King by Bran Stark. Despite his past mistakes and his role in Daenerys’s rise to power, Bran recognized his intelligence, experience, and commitment to justice. Tyrion’s task was to rebuild the realm, advise the king, and ensure a more peaceful and prosperous future for Westeros. He was given a chance at redemption and entrusted with significant responsibility.
Why was Jon Snow sent back to the Night’s Watch?
Jon Snow was sent back to the Night’s Watch as punishment for killing Daenerys. While he had saved Westeros from her tyranny, he had also committed regicide, a crime that could not be ignored. Sending him back to the Night’s Watch, though seemingly lenient, was a form of exile that removed him from the political landscape and prevented further conflict. It was a compromise between justice and mercy.
What was the significance of Arya Stark sailing west?
Arya Stark sailing west symbolized her desire for adventure and her rejection of traditional roles for women in Westeros. She had always been drawn to exploration and independence, and her decision to sail west represented her willingness to forge her own path and discover new lands. It also suggests that Westeros is not the only place of interest in the world. She was embracing the unknown and charting her own destiny.
What was the purpose of the new small council?
The new small council was designed to represent a more diverse and pragmatic form of governance. Composed of individuals with different backgrounds, skills, and perspectives, the council aimed to provide Bran with well-rounded advice and ensure that the needs of all the kingdoms were considered. The inclusion of Bronn, Brienne, and Davos reflected a commitment to competence and integrity over traditional noble birth. It was a symbol of the new era of cooperation and collaboration.
What happened to Drogon after Daenerys’s death?
Drogon, grieving the death of Daenerys, incinerated the Iron Throne with his fiery breath before flying away with her body. His destination was unknown, but many speculated that he returned to Valyria, the ancestral homeland of the Targaryens. The destruction of the Iron Throne can be interpreted as a rejection of the cycle of violence and power struggles that had defined Westeros for so long. His departure marked the end of the Targaryen dynasty’s dominance.
Was the ending truly “bittersweet,” as intended?
Whether the ending was truly “bittersweet” is subjective and depends on individual interpretations. While it offered some sense of closure and hope for the future, it also left many storylines unresolved and characters unfulfilled. The deaths of key characters like Daenerys, the exile of Jon Snow, and the unexpected ascension of Bran Stark contributed to a sense of loss and disappointment for many viewers. The balance between “bitter” and “sweet” was arguably tipped heavily towards the former for a significant portion of the audience.
What were the major criticisms leveled against the writing in Season 8, particularly the finale?
Major criticisms included rushed pacing, character inconsistencies, plot holes, and a perceived lack of thematic depth. Critics argued that the show deviated from its established principles of realistic world-building and complex character motivations, opting instead for spectacle and shock value. The finale, in particular, was criticized for its unsatisfying resolutions and its failure to adequately address the consequences of the preceding events. Many felt the writers prioritized plot convenience over character development and logical storytelling.
Could the ending have been improved?
The potential for improvement is a matter of endless debate among fans. Some suggest a slower pace, allowing for more character development and a more organic progression of events. Others propose different outcomes for key characters, such as a more nuanced resolution for Daenerys or a more satisfying fate for Jon Snow. Ultimately, whether the ending could have been improved is a matter of subjective opinion, but it’s clear that many viewers felt that the final season fell short of its potential. Alternative scenarios abound in fan theories and creative rewrites, highlighting the widespread dissatisfaction with the actual outcome.