Daenerys Targaryen’s controversial destruction of King’s Landing occurs in Season 8, Episode 5, titled “The Bells.” This single episode fundamentally altered the course of the series and sparked intense debate among viewers, cementing its place as one of the most discussed – and divisive – moments in television history.
The Buildup to Burning
The path leading to this devastating act was paved with a complex tapestry of political maneuvering, personal loss, and escalating paranoia. Daenerys, once hailed as a liberator, found herself increasingly isolated and surrounded by advisors she no longer fully trusted.
A Queen’s Descent
The death of Missandei at Cersei Lannister’s hand served as a breaking point. Missandei, more than just an advisor, was a dear friend and a symbol of Daenerys’ unwavering belief in her own righteous cause. Her brutal execution ignited a simmering rage, fueled by perceived injustices and a growing sense of entitlement to the Iron Throne. Varys’ betrayal, discovered just before the attack, further eroded Daenerys’ trust and amplified her fears of being usurped.
The Tactical Considerations
While vengeance played a significant role, tactical calculations also influenced Daenerys’ decision. Despite the Lannister army surrendering, Cersei remained in the Red Keep, a potent symbol of her defiance. Daenerys understood that capturing the city without utterly breaking its spirit of resistance would be difficult, if not impossible. To truly secure her claim, she arguably believed she needed to crush any remaining opposition, even at a devastating cost.
The Bells: An Episode of Devastation
“The Bells” opens with Tyrion arranging Jaime Lannister’s release, hoping he can persuade Cersei to surrender. Unfortunately, Jaime’s attempts are unsuccessful, setting the stage for the inevitable confrontation. When the Golden Company and the Lannister forces prove incapable of stopping Daenerys and Drogon, the bells of King’s Landing ring, signaling the city’s surrender. But rather than accepting the surrender, Daenerys chooses a different path.
The Unleashing of Drogon
Drogon, Daenerys’ last remaining dragon, becomes a devastating weapon of destruction. She systematically incinerates the Iron Fleet, the city gates, and ultimately, the entire city itself, indiscriminately burning soldiers, civilians, and buildings alike. The imagery is horrific, portraying a scene of utter chaos and unimaginable suffering. The sight of innocent people burning alive shattered Daenerys’ image as a benevolent queen.
The Motivations Behind the Madness?
The true motivations behind Daenerys’ actions remain a subject of fierce debate. Some argue that she succumbed to madness, inherited from her Targaryen ancestors. Others believe it was a calculated decision, driven by a desire to instill fear and consolidate her power. Still others suggest that she snapped under the pressure, overwhelmed by grief, betrayal, and the weight of her ambition. Regardless of the underlying cause, the result was undeniable: the utter destruction of King’s Landing and the loss of countless innocent lives.
The Aftermath and Legacy
The burning of King’s Landing had profound consequences for the remaining characters and the future of Westeros.
The End of an Era
Daenerys’ actions irrevocably altered the course of the series. Jon Snow, horrified by her cruelty and fearing for the future of Westeros, ultimately made the agonizing decision to kill her, preventing her from establishing a tyrannical reign. The destruction of King’s Landing also paved the way for the establishment of a new system of governance, with Bran Stark chosen as king, and a council of lords and ladies tasked with advising him.
A Controversial Conclusion
The manner in which Daenerys’ character arc concluded remains a contentious issue among fans. Many felt that her descent into madness was rushed and poorly executed, undermining her earlier acts of heroism and compassion. Others argued that it was a logical culmination of her character flaws and the pressures she faced. Whatever one’s perspective, the burning of King’s Landing remains a pivotal moment in the series, sparking debate and discussion long after the final episode aired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about the burning of King’s Landing and its implications:
1. Why did Daenerys choose to attack King’s Landing when it had already surrendered?
The question of Daenerys’ motivations remains a primary point of contention. Possible explanations include a desire to inspire fear, a culmination of her mounting losses and betrayals, or a descent into madness influenced by her Targaryen heritage.
2. Could Daenerys have won the war without destroying King’s Landing?
Tactically, yes, capturing the Red Keep would have been a significant victory, even if some resistance lingered. However, Daenerys seemed determined to make an example of Cersei and to demonstrate her absolute power. A bloodless victory might not have achieved this goal.
3. What was Tyrion’s role in the events leading up to the burning?
Tyrion, as Hand of the Queen, attempted to advise Daenerys and prevent unnecessary bloodshed. His warnings about the dangers of attacking King’s Landing were ignored, and his attempts to broker a peaceful surrender ultimately failed. His faith in Cersei proved misplaced and contributed to the tragedy.
4. How did the burning of King’s Landing affect Jon Snow’s perception of Daenerys?
The indiscriminate slaughter of innocent civilians deeply disturbed Jon. He witnessed firsthand the devastating consequences of Daenerys’ actions, realizing she had become a threat to the very people she claimed to protect. This realization ultimately led him to betray his love for her and assassinate her.
5. Did Varys’ betrayal contribute to Daenerys’ decision?
Varys’ attempts to place Jon Snow on the throne, combined with his criticisms of Daenerys’ leadership, certainly fueled her paranoia and distrust. While it wasn’t the sole reason for her actions, it undeniably contributed to her increasingly volatile state of mind.
6. Was Daenerys always destined to become a “Mad Queen”?
This is a complex and highly debated topic. The show hinted at a potential for madness within Daenerys’ bloodline. However, external factors like the death of her loved ones, the constant threat of betrayal, and the immense pressure of leadership likely played a significant role in her descent.
7. What was the impact of the burning on the common people of Westeros?
The burning devastated the population of King’s Landing, leaving countless dead and homeless. It instilled fear and resentment towards Daenerys and further destabilized the already fragile political landscape of Westeros.
8. How did the Golden Company’s defeat influence Daenerys’ actions?
The Golden Company’s swift defeat likely reinforced Daenerys’ belief in her own invincibility and further fueled her sense of entitlement to the Iron Throne. It may have contributed to her willingness to disregard the potential consequences of her actions.
9. What alternatives could Daenerys have considered to avoid the destruction?
Daenerys could have focused her attack solely on the Red Keep, targeting Cersei directly. She could have also attempted to negotiate a more comprehensive surrender, offering amnesty to the surviving Lannister soldiers and civilians. However, these options would have required patience and a willingness to compromise, qualities that Daenerys seemed to lack in that moment.
10. How did Drogon’s behavior during the burning reflect Daenerys’ state of mind?
Drogon, as Daenerys’ dragon, shared a deep bond with her. His unbridled fire unleashed upon King’s Landing seemed to mirror Daenerys’ own unchecked rage and desire for retribution. The dragon acted as an extension of her will, amplifying the devastation.
11. What symbolic significance does the Iron Throne hold after the burning?
The Iron Throne, once a symbol of power and ambition, becomes a twisted monument to destruction and loss after the burning. Its melted form serves as a stark reminder of the futility of conquest and the devastating consequences of unchecked power.
12. Was Daenerys’ death justified after the destruction of King’s Landing?
This remains a point of intense debate. Jon Snow faced an impossible choice: allow Daenerys to continue her tyrannical reign, potentially leading to further bloodshed, or kill her to protect the people of Westeros. Ultimately, he chose the latter, believing it was the only way to ensure peace and stability. However, many viewers question whether that decision was morally justifiable.