Episode 4 of Game of Thrones Season 8, “The Last of the Starks,” saw the surviving heroes grapple with victory’s cost, forging new alliances and solidifying old grudges, all while Cersei Lannister strategically strengthened her position in King’s Landing. The episode was marked by emotional farewells, strategic blunders, and a shocking, devastating loss that shifted the momentum of the final battle for the Iron Throne.
The Aftermath of Victory and Seeds of Discord
The immediate aftermath of the Battle of Winterfell was steeped in both celebration and sorrow. Daenerys Targaryen, having played a pivotal role in the defeat of the Night King, found herself facing an unexpected wave of apathy and distrust from the Northerners, who hailed Jon Snow as their true savior. This perceived slight, coupled with Jon’s revelation of his true identity, began to erode the foundation of their alliance and planted seeds of doubt in Daenerys’s mind, foreshadowing the darker path she would later tread.
The episode also featured scenes of revelry, highlighting the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing fleeting moments of joy. However, the celebratory atmosphere was short-lived, overshadowed by the looming threat of Cersei Lannister and the strategic decisions that would ultimately determine the fate of Westeros.
Strategic Miscalculations and Tragic Losses
The Targaryen-Stark forces, depleted but resolute, planned their next move: an assault on King’s Landing to dethrone Cersei. Despite Tyrion’s counsel and Sansa’s pragmatic concerns about the North’s weakened state, Daenerys was determined to strike swiftly. This decision proved fateful.
During their naval voyage south, Daenerys suffered a devastating blow. Euron Greyjoy ambushed her fleet, utilizing Qyburn’s deadly scorpions to inflict significant damage. Rhaegal, one of Daenerys’s remaining dragons, was shot down and killed, a crushing loss for both Daenerys and her cause. Missandei, Daenerys’s trusted advisor and friend, was captured.
The episode culminated in a tense confrontation at the gates of King’s Landing. Cersei, having fortified the city with the Golden Company and innocent civilians, refused to surrender. In a heartbreaking scene, Cersei ordered the execution of Missandei before Daenerys’s eyes, leaving the Mother of Dragons consumed by grief and a thirst for vengeance. Missandei’s final word, “Dracarys,” served as a chilling portent of Daenerys’s impending rage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Episode 4
H3 Why did Daenerys fly directly into a naval ambush?
This remains a point of contention and criticism among viewers. While the episode portrays Daenerys as somewhat reckless in her pursuit of King’s Landing, the strategic failure highlights the importance of scouting and reconnaissance, which were conspicuously absent. The show’s creators have suggested that Daenerys was overly confident in her remaining dragon and underestimated Cersei’s defenses, but many feel this explanation falls short.
H3 Why didn’t Daenerys scout ahead with Drogon?
A logical question, given Daenerys’s aerial superiority. Several theories exist, including the possibility that Drogon was still recovering from the Battle of Winterfell, or that Daenerys believed a direct approach would force Cersei to negotiate. However, the lack of a clear in-universe explanation leaves this as a significant plot hole in the eyes of many viewers.
H3 Was the loss of Rhaegal realistic?
While the effectiveness of the scorpions was surprising, the narrative suggests that Rhaegal was caught off guard and overwhelmed by the coordinated attack. The volley of bolts fired from the Iron Fleet proved too much, especially considering the absence of any defensive maneuvers from Daenerys or Rhaegal. Whether realistic or not, Rhaegal’s death served to dramatically raise the stakes.
H3 What was the significance of Missandei’s death?
Missandei’s death was a pivotal moment, designed to push Daenerys closer to the edge. As Daenerys’s closest confidante and a symbol of her own past suffering, Missandei’s brutal execution served as a personal affront and a calculated move by Cersei to provoke Daenerys into rash action. Her final word, “Dracarys,” was a clear directive for Daenerys to unleash her dragonfire.
H3 Why did Varys and Tyrion discuss Daenerys’s suitability as Queen?
The conversation between Varys and Tyrion reflects their growing concerns about Daenerys’s mental state and her potential for tyranny. They recognize the popular support for Jon Snow and begin to contemplate his claim to the Iron Throne, recognizing that a wise and just ruler is more important than a legitimate heir. This dialogue foreshadows their later actions and their eventual betrayal of Daenerys.
H3 What was the point of the Winterfell feast?
The feast at Winterfell served several narrative purposes. It allowed for moments of levity and connection after the intense battle, highlighting the importance of camaraderie and celebration. It also provided opportunities to showcase the growing tension between Daenerys and Sansa, as well as the developing relationships (and dissolutions of relationships) among the characters. Finally, it underscored the fragility of peace and the looming threat of Cersei.
H3 Why did Sansa reveal Jon’s secret to Tyrion?
Sansa’s decision to reveal Jon’s true parentage to Tyrion was a calculated move to undermine Daenerys’s claim to the throne. Sansa believes that a Northern King is better for the North and saw Jon’s claim as a way to achieve that independence. By revealing the secret, she hoped to sow discord within Daenerys’s camp and ultimately secure a better future for her people.
H3 What happened between Brienne and Jaime in this episode?
After finally consummating their relationship, Jaime ultimately chose to return to Cersei, leaving Brienne heartbroken. This development served to highlight the destructive nature of Jaime’s love for Cersei and his inability to escape their toxic dynamic. Despite his growth as a character, Jaime remained tethered to his sister, leading to a tragic and predictable outcome.
H3 How did Cersei get the Golden Company to King’s Landing so quickly?
The speed with which the Golden Company arrived at King’s Landing is another point of contention. While the show provides no explicit explanation, it is implied that Cersei had already been negotiating with them and that they were strategically positioned to reinforce her defenses. However, the lack of logistical detail makes their swift arrival seem somewhat implausible.
H3 What was the significance of the “game” played during the feast?
The drinking game played during the feast provided character development and foreshadowing. Daenerys’s forced smiles and Jon’s awkwardness highlighted their strained relationship. Brienne’s honorable nature was further emphasized, while Tyrion’s wit and understanding of the characters were on full display. The game also served as a microcosm of the larger game of thrones, with characters vying for power and influence.
H3 Why did Cersei choose to hide behind innocent civilians?
Cersei’s decision to use innocent civilians as a human shield reflects her ruthlessness and her willingness to do anything to retain power. By placing them between her and Daenerys, she hoped to deter Daenerys from unleashing her dragonfire and to manipulate public opinion. This tactic further cemented her status as a villain and foreshadowed the potential for a catastrophic siege.
H3 Did the episode accurately reflect the themes and tone of Game of Thrones?
While “The Last of the Starks” featured many elements consistent with the series’ themes of power, betrayal, and loss, some viewers felt that the plot inconsistencies and character motivations were rushed and unconvincing. The episode’s pacing and certain character decisions were criticized for prioritizing shock value over narrative coherence, leading to a mixed reception among fans. Ultimately, the episode served as a crucial turning point, setting the stage for the climactic battles to come.