Season 7, Episode 6 of Game of Thrones, “Beyond the Wall,” saw a significant loss for the forces of the living: Viserion, Daenerys Targaryen’s dragon, was killed and subsequently resurrected by the Night King. Several unnamed members of the “Magnificent Seven” also perished in the frozen lake, including Thoros of Myr.
The Fallen and Their Fates: A Deep Dive
“Beyond the Wall” is arguably one of the most controversial episodes of Game of Thrones. While lauded for its visual spectacle and action sequences, it also drew criticism for perceived plot inconsistencies and rushed pacing. However, the impact of its deaths on the overall narrative is undeniable.
Viserion: Dragon Down
The death of Viserion is the most impactful event of the episode. He was struck by an ice spear hurled by the Night King while Daenerys was rescuing Jon Snow and his companions. The loss of a dragon, a symbol of Targaryen power and a crucial weapon against the White Walkers, was a devastating blow to Daenerys and the living. Furthermore, his resurrection as a wight dragon controlled by the Night King drastically shifted the balance of power, giving the White Walkers an immense advantage they previously lacked.
The image of ice Viserion, breathing blue flames, is now iconic, signifying the utter ruthlessness of the Night King and the existential threat he poses to Westeros.
Thoros of Myr: A Fiery End
Thoros of Myr, the Red Priest and member of the Brotherhood Without Banners, met his end due to a wound sustained from a polar bear attack earlier in the episode. The wound festered in the freezing conditions, and Thoros eventually succumbed to the cold and blood loss. His death deprived the group of his unique skills, including the ability to cauterize wounds with fire, which could have aided them in their fight against the undead. His demise also represents a loss of faith, as Thoros was a devoted follower of the Lord of Light, and his presence had previously offered some protection and guidance.
The Unnamed Many: Sacrifices in the Ice
Beyond the named characters, a significant number of unnamed wildlings and members of the Brotherhood Without Banners were killed by the wights in the icy lake. While not individually significant to the plot, their deaths highlight the overwhelming numbers and relentless nature of the White Walker army. They serve as a stark reminder of the human cost of the war to come. These nameless faces were vital in holding back the army of the dead, allowing Jon Snow and his cohorts to make their escape.
FAQs: Addressing Lingering Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions related to the deaths in Game of Thrones Season 7, Episode 6:
FAQ 1: Why was Viserion the dragon that died?
The most common theory is that the Night King intentionally targeted Viserion. He was perhaps chosen because his scales were a lighter color compared to Drogon and Rhaegal, potentially making him a slightly easier target, or perhaps it was purely strategic based on his position in the air. The show itself doesn’t explicitly explain the reason, leaving it open to interpretation. Some believe it was simply a matter of chance.
FAQ 2: How was the Night King able to throw the ice spear so accurately?
The Night King’s superhuman strength and potentially magical abilities likely contributed to his accuracy. He has demonstrated exceptional control over the dead and possesses an aura of supernatural power. Furthermore, some fans speculate that the Night King may have previously been a skilled warrior or javelin thrower in his human life.
FAQ 3: Could Daenerys have saved Viserion if she had reacted faster?
This is a point of contention. While Daenerys attempted to save Viserion, the Night King’s spear was thrown with incredible speed and precision. It’s unlikely she could have maneuvered Drogon fast enough to intercept the projectile. Furthermore, putting Drogon at risk to save Viserion could have resulted in the loss of both dragons.
FAQ 4: What are the implications of Viserion becoming a wight dragon?
The implications are immense. Viserion, now an ice dragon controlled by the Night King, provides the White Walker army with a devastating weapon. He can breathe blue fire, capable of destroying fortifications and incinerating vast numbers of soldiers. Most importantly, he allowed the Night King to breach the Wall, a magical barrier that had stood for thousands of years.
FAQ 5: Did Thoros of Myr’s death have any larger impact on the war against the White Walkers?
Yes, to a degree. While not a frontline warrior, Thoros’s faith and the potential of the Lord of Light were a source of hope. His death, coupled with the overall dire circumstances, could lead to a crisis of faith among those fighting against the undead. Furthermore, his specific skills, like cauterizing wounds, were invaluable in the harsh conditions beyond the Wall.
FAQ 6: Why didn’t Jon Snow use Longclaw to fight the wights more effectively?
Longclaw, a Valyrian steel sword, is effective against White Walkers, not wights. Wights are undead humans, while White Walkers are the magical beings that control them. Valyrian steel and dragonglass are primarily effective against White Walkers. Regular weapons can dispatch wights, albeit with some difficulty.
FAQ 7: Was it necessary for so many unnamed characters to die?
From a narrative perspective, the deaths of the unnamed characters served to illustrate the scale of the threat posed by the White Walkers and to heighten the sense of danger. It underscores the overwhelming odds faced by the living and highlights the sacrifices being made in the fight against the undead. It reinforces that the war is not just about the named characters; it is a struggle for the survival of all of humanity.
FAQ 8: Could Thoros have been saved with better medical attention?
Potentially, yes. Had they been closer to civilization with access to proper medical supplies and treatment, Thoros might have survived. However, the remote and freezing conditions, coupled with the lack of resources, made his survival unlikely. Septon Meribald or Qyburn, would have had a better chance.
FAQ 9: How did the Night King know when to throw the spear to hit Viserion?
The Night King’s timing and accuracy suggest a degree of precognition or a deep connection to the magical forces at play. It’s possible he possesses a unique ability to sense weakness or vulnerability in his targets. This is a recurring theme – his precise knowledge and strategic brilliance.
FAQ 10: Did the deaths in this episode contribute to the rushed pacing of later seasons?
Many fans argue that this episode, along with others in Seasons 7 and 8, suffered from compressed storylines and convenient plot developments. The need to wrap up the series within a limited number of episodes may have contributed to a perceived decline in the quality of writing and character development. The distance to the Wall being traversed in a single episode stands out as a particularly egregious contrivance.
FAQ 11: What symbolism can we draw from Viserion’s death and resurrection?
Viserion’s death and subsequent reanimation symbolize the corruption of innocence and the perversion of natural order. A magnificent creature, born of fire and imbued with Targaryen blood, is transformed into a weapon of death and destruction. This reinforces the idea that the Night King is not simply an enemy to be defeated, but a force of entropy that threatens to unravel the very fabric of existence.
FAQ 12: Were there any fan theories predicting Viserion’s demise before Season 7, Episode 6?
Yes, various fan theories had predicted the death of a dragon and its potential resurrection by the Night King. These theories often focused on the “Three Heads of the Dragon” prophecy and the potential for one of the dragons to fall under the control of the White Walkers. Some even speculated on the possibility of ice dragons existing and serving the Night King. The showrunners sometimes took inspiration from the fan community.
Conclusion: A Turning Point
The deaths in “Beyond the Wall” marked a pivotal turning point in Game of Thrones. Viserion’s fall irrevocably altered the strategic landscape, paving the way for the Night King’s invasion of Westeros and the ultimate showdown between the living and the dead. While the episode faced criticism for its narrative shortcuts, its impact on the overall story remains undeniable. The chilling image of ice Viserion serves as a constant reminder of the dire consequences of the war and the immense power of the enemy.