House of the Dragon finally gives us a great episode full of dragons

House of the Dragon finally gives us a great episode full of dragons

As a long-time fan of George R.R. Martin’s intricately woven tales of power, politics, and dragons, I have eagerly anticipated each new episode of “House of the Dragon.” But let me tell you, this penultimate episode took my breath away.


Just like an avid HBO spectator, I can’t help but be thrilled by the presence of those magnificent dragons in “House of the Dragon” and “Game of Thrones”. I thoroughly enjoy dissecting the complex political scenarios, exploring themes of power and patriarchy, and examining class dynamics. Yet, what makes it even more exhilarating is witnessing how these elements intertwine with the awe-inspiring dragons. After all, “House of the Dragon” implies exactly that: dragons. And in this near-conclusion episode, the dragons are not just spectators but active participants in the unfolding events.

From the very beginning, it’s clear that tensions are high as Syrax and Seasmoke face off against each other on the beach, with Rhaenyra (Emma D’Arcy) standing between two new dragonriders: Addam Hull (Clinton Liberty). Although a fierce confrontation ensues, it soon becomes apparent that Addam has no intention of using his newfound abilities for personal gain. Instead, he’s elated to have found a meaningful role away from the sea and agrees to learn the art of dragonriding under Rhaenyra’s tutelage.

With only a week left in its second season, “House of the Dragon” offers up an episode where it assembles its team, and this installment truly shines. The disclosure of Addam’s connection to Seasmoke causes Rhaenyra to ponder her family’s ancient claim to dragons once more. With Mysaria’s assistance, she starts exploring potential candidates who haven’t been recorded in the annals of Targaryen lineage with weakened bloodlines. These individuals include bastards born from the realm’s brothels and nobility whose interests wane after leaving the pleasure houses.

House of the Dragon finally gives us a great episode full of dragons

Although Rhaenyra may find her dragonriders among the “unconventional choices” such as Addam Hull, not everyone will be pleased with this development, even if it provides a potential edge against Aemond. The more devout of her supporters are outraged by her plan to bond Vermithor with Ser Steffon Darklyn. Moreover, her son Jace, who has already been marginalized and faced whispers about his lineage, is enraged that the survival of their family could hinge on the bastards of King’s Landing.

In George R. R. Martin’s “Game of Thrones,” the world is shaped by those considered weak or flawed – the crippled, bastards, and broken things. This theme, present since the beginning, sets in motion a chain reaction that alters the course of history. The consequences of every decision, big or small, spread like ripples on a pond, shaping the world in ways that are far-reaching and unpredictable.

As a devoted fan, I’m excited to share that events took a turn for Daemon this week. The demise of Lord Grover Tully brought about an unexpected consequence: his very young grandson, Oscar, inheriting the title of Lord of the Riverlands. Initially, Daemon saw this as an opportunity to put an end to the prolonged standoff regarding the River Lords’ allegiance. He believed he could manipulate the inexperienced Oscar and force the River Lords to submit at last.

House of the Dragon finally gives us a great episode full of dragons

In an impressive scene that’s surely a standout in the entire series, young Lord Oscar Tully, brilliantly portrayed by Archie Barnes, guides Daemon through his negotiations with the River Lords. Despite Oscar’s youth and unproven status as a lord, he holds the upper hand due to Daemon’s requirement for the Riverlands’ military support. The alliance will be formed under Oscar’s conditions.

The second-to-last episode of this season is filled with delightful moments as characters from the sidelines in season 2 boldly move towards the center of the action in Westeros. This marks a pivotal moment in the power struggle, as those vying for control, such as Rhaenyra, discover that possessing jealousy over power is an impediment to seizing it. Through this revelation, we’re reminded that the ruling class are not divine beings but merely human.

In this prolonged and nerve-wracking scene, Rhaenyra’s outcast companions undergo trials under Vermithor’s scrutiny. The outcomes are largely unfavorable for many, but fortune favors the resilient blacksmith Hugh Hammer (Kieran Bew) and the rowdy troublemaker Ulf White (Tom Bennet). For the former, destiny arrives at last. As for the latter, who is known for his heavy drinking and mischief-making, an enormous and vicious dragon unexpectedly chooses him as its rider.

Dominoes are always falling in Westeros.

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2024-07-29 15:19

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