In Game of Thrones Season 7 Episode 2, “Stormborn,” Daenerys Targaryen launches her strategic campaign against Cersei Lannister, forging alliances and implementing crucial battle plans, while unexpected encounters and revelations threaten to unravel long-held secrets and shift the balance of power in Westeros. The episode focuses on political maneuvering, burgeoning romantic tensions, and the looming threat of the White Walkers, laying the groundwork for the epic conflicts to come.
Daenerys’ War Council and Strategic Alliances
Laying the Foundation for Conquest
Daenerys, now firmly established on Dragonstone, wastes no time in assembling her war council to strategize her conquest of Westeros. The episode showcases a fascinating dynamic between Daenerys, Tyrion, and her advisors, particularly Lady Olenna Tyrell and Ellaria Sand, representing Dorne. Tyrion proposes a strategy of attacking King’s Landing indirectly, utilizing Dorne and the Reach to weaken Cersei’s forces before a direct assault. This approach aims to minimize civilian casualties and prevent the destruction of King’s Landing, showcasing Tyrion’s strategic brilliance and Daenerys’ willingness to consider alternatives to brute force. The council debates the merits and risks of various plans, highlighting the complexities of warfare and the moral considerations that weigh heavily on Daenerys.
The episode also sees Daenerys sending Missandei to Grey Worm to prepare for the battle ahead. The interactions between Grey Worm and Missandei are fraught with unspoken feelings, providing a poignant glimpse into their evolving relationship amidst the chaos of war.
Unexpected Visitors and Shifting Loyalties
One of the most significant developments in “Stormborn” is the arrival of Melisandre at Dragonstone. Her presence signals a crucial convergence of storylines, as she seeks to convince Daenerys of Jon Snow’s importance in the fight against the White Walkers. Melisandre champions both Jon and Daenerys as the prophesied “prince that was promised,” setting the stage for a future alliance that could ultimately determine the fate of Westeros. Daenerys, though initially skeptical, is intrigued by Melisandre’s claims and agrees to summon Jon Snow to Dragonstone.
The Stark Sisters: A Reunion at Winterfell
Reuniting After Years of Separation
The Stark sisters, Arya and Nymeria, experience a poignant encounter as Arya travels south towards King’s Landing. Arya has a brief encounter with her direwolf, Nymeria. Although Arya encourages Nymeria to come with her, Nymeria is wild and refuses, which represents Arya also finding her own path and understanding that she is no longer the child who left Winterfell.
The news of Jon Snow’s victory at the Battle of the Bastards and his coronation as King in the North prompts Arya to reconsider her mission and head to Winterfell instead, setting up a reunion with her remaining siblings.
Littlefinger’s Manipulations
At Winterfell, tensions remain high as Littlefinger continues his manipulative game. He attempts to sow discord between Sansa and Jon, subtly suggesting that Sansa is the true heir to Winterfell. His insidious actions highlight the ongoing threat he poses to the Stark family and their fragile unity. Sansa, however, is becoming more astute and aware of Littlefinger’s manipulations, demonstrating her growing political acumen.
Euron’s Attack and Dramatic Losses
Ambush at Sea
“Stormborn” features a brutal and decisive naval battle orchestrated by Euron Greyjoy. He ambushes Yara Greyjoy’s fleet, which is escorting Ellaria Sand and the Sand Snakes to Dorne. The battle is visually stunning and shockingly violent, showcasing Euron’s ruthlessness and strategic prowess.
Captives and Casualties
Euron’s attack results in significant losses for Daenerys’ allies. Obara and Nymeria Sand are brutally killed, and Yara Greyjoy is captured. Ellaria Sand and her remaining daughter, Tyene, are also taken captive, setting up a potentially devastating confrontation with Cersei Lannister. Theon Greyjoy, witnessing the carnage, jumps overboard, abandoning his sister to her fate, highlighting his lingering trauma and cowardice. This event marks a significant setback for Daenerys and raises questions about the effectiveness of her initial strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What specific strategies does Tyrion propose to Daenerys in this episode?
Tyrion proposes a cautious approach, focusing on isolating King’s Landing and weakening Cersei’s forces through strategic alliances and calculated attacks. He emphasizes utilizing Dorne and the Reach as key allies, suggesting a naval blockade and strategic sieges rather than a direct assault on the city. This minimizes civilian casualties and prevents the unnecessary destruction of King’s Landing. He also suggests sending Jon Snow an invitation to Dragonstone in order to build an alliance.
2. Why is Melisandre so eager to bring Jon Snow and Daenerys together?
Melisandre believes that both Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen are crucial figures in fulfilling the prophecy of the “Prince That Was Promised” (or “Princess That Was Promised,” depending on interpretation). She believes their combined strength and unique abilities are essential to defeating the Night King and his army of the dead.
3. What does Arya’s encounter with Nymeria signify?
Arya’s encounter with Nymeria symbolizes her own independence and the difficult choices she faces. Nymeria, now wild and leading her own pack, chooses to remain free rather than return to a domesticated life. This reflects Arya’s own journey, highlighting her transformation into a skilled warrior who has forged her own path, distinct from the traditional role of a highborn lady.
4. How is Littlefinger attempting to manipulate Sansa in this episode?
Littlefinger subtly plants seeds of doubt in Sansa’s mind, suggesting that she is the true heir to Winterfell and implying that Jon Snow’s rule is illegitimate. He preys on her ambition and insecurities, attempting to create a rift between the siblings and ultimately consolidate his own power.
5. What are the immediate consequences of Euron’s attack on Yara’s fleet?
Euron’s attack results in the capture of Yara Greyjoy, Ellaria Sand, and Tyene Sand. Obara and Nymeria Sand are killed. This represents a significant blow to Daenerys’ alliances and weakens her position considerably, handing a strategic victory to Cersei Lannister.
6. Why does Theon jump overboard during the attack?
Theon’s decision to jump overboard is driven by his overwhelming fear and lingering trauma from his time as Ramsay Bolton’s prisoner. He is paralyzed by the violence and unable to face the horrors of battle, reverting to his old cowardice. The scene highlights the deep psychological scars he carries and his inability to overcome his past experiences.
7. What is the significance of Daenerys summoning Jon Snow to Dragonstone?
Daenerys summoning Jon Snow to Dragonstone represents a potential turning point in the war for Westeros. It opens the door for a crucial alliance between the two powerful figures, who both represent significant threats to Cersei Lannister’s reign. This alliance could prove essential in both the fight against Cersei and the greater war against the Night King.
8. What does Ellaria Sand’s capture mean for Dorne?
Ellaria Sand’s capture essentially decapitates the Dornish resistance against Cersei. Without her leadership, and with her daughters dead or captured, Dorne loses its ability to effectively fight against the Lannisters, further strengthening Cersei’s position.
9. How does this episode contribute to the overall narrative arc of Season 7?
“Stormborn” significantly advances the plot by establishing key alliances, showcasing brutal confrontations, and setting the stage for future conflicts. It highlights the strategic challenges Daenerys faces in conquering Westeros, emphasizes the importance of alliances in the fight against the White Walkers, and underscores the ruthlessness of Cersei Lannister and her willingness to go to any lengths to maintain her power.
10. What foreshadowing elements are present in this episode?
Several scenes foreshadow future events. The tension between Sansa and Littlefinger hints at a potential power struggle within Winterfell. Melisandre’s unwavering belief in Jon and Daenerys as the “Prince/Princess That Was Promised” foreshadows their eventual alliance and their crucial role in the war against the Night King. Euron’s victory foreshadows further challenges and setbacks for Daenerys and her allies.
11. How does the episode portray the changing roles of women in Westeros?
“Stormborn” highlights the growing influence and power of women in Westeros. Daenerys is a powerful queen leading an army. Sansa is proving herself to be a capable leader at Winterfell. Arya is an assassin making her own way. Olenna Tyrell continues to exert influence with her sharp wit and strategic thinking. However, the brutal deaths of Obara and Nymeria Sand also serve as a reminder of the vulnerability of women in a violent world.
12. What are the main themes explored in “Stormborn”?
The main themes explored in “Stormborn” include: the complexities of war and the moral considerations involved in leadership; the importance of alliances and the challenges of building trust in a world filled with deceit; the enduring power of family and the impact of trauma; and the ongoing struggle between good and evil, both in the political landscape of Westeros and in the looming threat of the White Walkers.