House of the Dragon returned this Sunday night (16), after a break of almost two years, with a dark reminder: this is not a happy series. The first season wasn’t particularly happy, but the second begins in an even darker and more depraved way – and that’s not a bad thing.
In the first season, we were introduced to a Westeros 200 years before the events of Game of Thrones, with all its intricate power plays and betrayals. It was the season that gave us an initial glimpse of the rivalry between Rhaenyra Targaryen and Alicent Hightower, a conflict that would deepen over time.
For fans of George RR Martin’s books, it is interesting to note that the series is based on “Fire & Blood”, a book that tells the story of the Targaryens. The series remains faithful to many of the events described in the book, but also takes creative liberties that visually enrich the narrative.
Game of Thrones souvenirs
The episode “A Son for a Son” is a brilliant season premiere. We’re taken back to Westeros very gently, with our first glimpse of Winterfell and the North since the final season of Game of Thrones. It’s almost like we’re coming home. Game of Thrones fans may feel a certain nostalgia when they see familiar places and notice that the Starks of Winterfell are very similar to Ned and his family.
Jace Velaryon and Cregan Stark at the Wall
Here we see the eldest Velaryon son, Jace (Harry Collett), joining Lord Cregan Stark (Tom Taylor) on a chilly visit to the Wall. Stark tells the young man that he is loyal to Rhaenyra (Emma D’Arcy), but cannot give up his soldiers so close to winter, which, he reminds us, is coming. Jace mocks Stark for defending the North from “wildlings and the weather” and Stark, as grim as you’d expect a Northern lord to be, says it’s not just those threats that they and the Night’s Watch defend. “So what?” Jace asks. “Death,” responds Lord Stark. Never change, Starks of Winterfell.
It’s even a little funny how little things have changed in Westeros. In 200 years, the Starks will still be the lords of Winterfell, the Lannisters will still be the rich lords of Casterly Rock, and the Targaryens will still have their usual white hair. The same armor will be used. Technology has barely advanced over the centuries. This scenario is very reminiscent of the continuity of traditions and conflicts that we saw in Game of Thrones, where the main families continue to play central roles, regardless of the changes in power and the wars they go through.
House of the Dragon continues the Game of Thrones tradition of creating a compelling, complex narrative full of rich characters and intense conflicts. The series not only expands the universe fans love, but also offers new layers of drama and intrigue while staying true to the roots established in the first season and George RR Martin’s books.
Source: Atrevida
Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.
