As a seasoned fan of George R.R. Martin’s epic series, it’s fascinating to witness the intricate dance between the “House of the Dragon” and its source material, “Fire & Blood”. The showrunners are certainly not afraid to venture off-script, which can be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking for fans like myself.
This article contains spoilers for “House of the Dragon” Season 2, Episode 8
After wrapping up its eighth and concluding episode, “House of the Dragon” Season 2 has drawn to a close, marking what many consider to be the finest season within the “Game of Thrones” series since the Mountain fought the Viper. This season was rich in foreshadowing, prophetic dreams, and extended, eloquently penned conversations. Some viewers may find it slow-paced, given that the Season 2 finale concludes with a haunting sequence showcasing the world preparing for future conflicts. There are no actual battles in this final episode; instead, we’re left with a succession of intense emotional encounters that underscore the tragic journey ahead. Alas, any military engagements must wait for another day.
Ego. Order. The myth of great men, and the alluring lie that power generates purpose. These are the ideas at the heart of “House of the Dragon” Season 2, from the Harrenhal haunting of Daemon Targaryen (Matt Smith) and the ethical struggle of Queen Rhaenyra (Emma D’Arcy) to the plight of Alicent Hightower (Olivia Cooke) and the grotesque tragedy of Aegon II (Tom Glynn-Carney). With the exception of the climactic battle at Rook’s Rest in the middle of the season, most of these stories are kept simmering, just on the precipice of any moment launching into a boil. Rhaenyra flaunts centuries of tradition by making dragonriders out of common bastards. Princess Rhaenys (Eve Best) makes the choice to die in battle, leaving her husband, Lord Corlys Velaryon (Steve Toussaint), to grapple alone with his regrets.
At the culmination of “House of the Dragon” Season 2, the Greens and the Blacks find themselves in a fierce confrontation, making it appear unlikely that both factions will endure.
What happens at the end of House of the Dragon Season 2?
In the heart of “House of the Dragon” Season 2, Episode 8, I find myself standing tall as Rhaenyra Targaryen. The scales have tipped decisively in my favor across Westeros, and now, I’m graced with three mighty dragonriders at my side – a power I’ve never wielded before. Yet, despite this formidable advantage, I find myself hesitant to employ it fully. My father-like figure, Lord Corlys Velaryon, urges me to seize the moment and strike while the iron is hot.
Following a prophetic revelation from enigmatic figure Alys Rivers (Gayle Rankin), Daemon forgoes his ambition to rule Westeros and swears allegiance to Rhaenyra, transferring the Rivermen army he’s gathered at Harrenhal under her command. Meanwhile, the pledged force of old-timers led by Lord Cregan Stark (Tom Taylor) is on its way south to unite with them.
With the looming threat of significant battles signaling the war’s climax, Alicent embarks on a perilous trek to Dragonstone to meet Rhaenyra. She implores her long-standing companion to find a peaceful resolution, suggesting a plan: letting Rhaenyra enter King’s Landing undisturbed while Aemond takes flight for war aboard Vhagar. In her desperate quest for freedom, Alicent offers the life of her eldest child as a sacrifice to ensure Rhaenyra’s ascension to the Iron Throne. However, both women remain oblivious to the fact that, behind the scenes, Lord Larys Strong (Matthew Needham) is secretly helping Aegon escape from the city.
What does Daemon’s vision mean?
In the second season, Daemon Targaryen’s extended stay at Harrenhal has been a topic of discussion among many viewers. Some consider it a flaw due to its prolonged and repetitive nature, used primarily to keep a beloved character out of the main events. However, regardless of personal opinions, Daemon’s storyline is one of the most comprehensive in the entire season. Throughout his time at Westeros’ infamous haunted castle, Daemon transforms from a jealous despot into a more humble individual. A significant part of this transformation occurs because of the chilling vision that Alys reveals to him in the final episode of the season.
Individuals familiar with “Game of Thrones” may notice similarities in Daemon’s dream to elements such as the enigmatic Three-Eyed Raven, the formidable White Walker army, and Daenerys Targaryen (played by Emilia Clarke) nurturing her dragons. Certain scenes seem to hint at future events depicted in George R. R. Martin’s “Fire & Blood,” specifically a scene where Daemon dives into a lake, which may resonate with those who have read the book. The reasons behind Alys revealing these details are not yet clear. It is possible that she, like Helaena (Phia Saban), who communicates with Daemon in his vision from a distance, is merely a pawn manipulated by the greater forces at play.
Despite everything, this final effort is crucial for Daemon to abandon his former ambition for the throne. He explains to Rhaenyra that their united rule offers the greatest hope of surviving the impending darkness. Though potent, this instance loses some impact due to the understanding that the Targaryen prophecy may not hold true. Pondering whether rewatching “Game of Thrones” Season 8 for Matt Smith’s “Winter is coming” in High Valyrian is worth it is debatable, but the phrase certainly carries an impressive air.
The dragonseeds foretell a major power shift in Westeros
In the second season of “House of the Dragon,” one major plot thread centers around the dragonseeds – individuals of Targaryen descent who possess dragons within Rhaenyra’s forces. Addam of Hull (portrayed by Clinton Liberty), Ulf White (Tom Bennett), and Hugh Hammer (Kieran Bew) each claim a dragon, with Hugh Hammer and Ulf White being the sole victors in Rhaenyra’s fierce competition for power among her bastards on Dragonstone.
Incorporating three dragons significantly strengthens her case, yet the final episode of Season 2 hints at the risks involved when non-native rulers control such immense power. Ulf, in a striking display, ignores the etiquette and customs of the highborn, and his dragon ownership amplifies his contempt. This could spell trouble for Rhaenyra, but it’s challenging to find fault with him. One concept that Season 2 delves into is the belief, upheld by Targaryens and other noble families, that those born into power hold it by a divine mandate.
In the world of “Game of Thrones”, Jacaerys (played by Harry Collett) feels this anxiety deeply as it directly impacts him. Being born illegitimate, he sees his status as a dragonrider as the sole proof that the world acknowledges his worth. Although Valyrian blood is crucial for communicating with dragons in this universe, the idea of a divine right to rule is still a fallacy. We’ve seen the Targaryen dynasty crumble due to its arrogance, and Jacaeris sees Ulf as a warning of what may happen next.
Alicent and Rhaenyra choose different paths
The most compelling moment in “House of the Dragon” Season 2 unfolds as a heartfelt dialogue between Rhaenyra and Alicent within the ancient walls of Dragonstone. In the heart of the former Targaryen stronghold, they expose the underlying sorrow that permeates their intertwined tale.
“Alicent grew up thinking there was a set way for things to be,” she tells Rhaenyra. “I believed finding security meant sticking to predefined paths. I guess I resented you because you seemed so carefree about it all, knowing exactly what you desired. I never knew what I wanted myself.” She suggests betraying her sons and giving up power, saying, “Now, for the first time, I am truly me, seeking nothing more than to roam freely and breathe fresh air.” At one instance, she asks Rhaenyra to join her, but she declines. “My destiny is here,” Alicent says, “whether I like it or not.”
An alternative, tender perspective on this scene suggests that the two characters might have been lovers if destiny had been more benevolent towards them, akin to the devoted fans of Rhaenys (Rhaenicent). This view gains strength from Rhaenyra’s past romantic entanglement with Mysaria during the season. However, no matter how you look at it, Rhaenyra’s voice echoes profound sadness as she declines Alicent’s hopeful overture. She may be correct in her refusal, or she could be too ensnared by something deeper.
At the end of the season, a small version of Rhaenyra is depicted amidst numerous shelves in the Dragonstone library, symbolizing a character dwarfed by a grander, more expansive history. In stark contrast, the scene shifts abruptly to Alicent, standing tall on a cliff, enveloped only by the vastness of the sky and sea. Just before this, Alicent expressed to Rhaenyra her desire for simple living over ruling, saying “I do not wish to rule. I wish to live.”
Perhaps all men are corrupt
It’s clear that the character Ser Criston Cole (Fabien Frankel), from “House of the Dragon,” has become the most disliked among fans due to his perceived lack of courage, entitled attitude reminiscent of an incel, and hypocritical devotion to righteousness. He is thoroughly despised. However, when he witnesses his entire army being killed at Rook’s Rest, there appears to be a shift within him. He’s undeniably traumatized, but what seems more profound is that he seems to relinquish his previous belief in his own importance, as if that too was consumed by the flames inside him.
In the final episode of Season 2, Cole ponders if it’s possible for people to truly achieve honor and righteousness, or if human nature is fundamentally flawed. He muses, “Maybe everyone is corrupt,” suggesting that genuine honor might be as fleeting as morning mist.
Towards the end of the show, Abubakar Salim’s character, Alyn of Hull, confronts his father, Lord Corlys, about their strained relationship, specifically his lack of recognition as a son. In this confrontation, Alyn expresses his honorable nature and declares that he will remain loyal to Corlys despite the disdain he harbors towards him.
The difference between them is quite noticeable. Ser Criston used to believe in the notion of great men performing heroic acts, but now he’s lost faith in that idea. Alyn, on the other hand, never held such a belief; however, he manages to live an honest and faithful life regardless. The series implies that it’s not being righteous that makes a person honorable, but rather humility. Even Daemon, despite his struggles with honor, is shown to be humbled in the end, though he may never truly embody honor.
House of the Dragon Season 2 explores the power and danger of prophecy
In “House of the Dragon,” frequent allusions to “Game of Thrones” have sparked some debate among viewers, largely due to the dissatisfaction many felt towards the conclusion of the initial series. However, the Season 2 finale seems to delve deeply into prophecy yet again. One might wonder if this is just another attempt to win back public favor or if there’s something more intriguing at play?
In simpler terms, Daemon bows down to Rhaenyra due to a foreseen calamity that he finds overwhelmingly dreadful. The magnitude of darkness and chaos in this vision leaves him puzzled as to how Westeros could possibly endure it. Rhaenyra correlates this with her own prediction – the Song of Ice and Fire, an ancient prophecy passed down from Aegon the Conqueror. However, “Game of Thrones” fans are aware that Daenerys Targaryen and Jon Snow (played by Kit Harington) do not ultimately save the world or rule Westeros after the defeat of the Night King.
Perhaps the message “House of the Dragon” is attempting to convey is that prophecies may be nothing more than fleeting dews that evaporate at dawn, implying that we should empathize with Rhaenyra and Daemon for their blind faith in their own superiority compared to others. In the final episode, Lady Rhaena (portrayed by Phoebe Campbell) faces death in the mountains, eagerly pursuing a dragon – a pursuit that could cost her life, but one she prefers over a tranquil, easy existence. Similar to them, she appears to have been seduced by the grandeur attached to her lineage. The fate of Rhaena remains uncertain as we move forward in the series.
What does the ending of House of the Dragon Season 2 really mean?
At the heart of “House of the Dragon” Season 2, I’m left pondering over a single king, scarred and fleeing his realm in a filthy cart. This monarch, betrayed by his own brother to the brink of death, is now on the run. The queen, who dares to defy him, admits that if granted another chance, she might choose differently. Yet, the wheels of war have been set in motion, leaving her powerless to halt its progression. Youngsters are ready to lay down their lives for the thrill of battle upon dragons’ backs, while the common folk on the ground witness a foreboding omen as destruction seems to orbit above us.
The situation isn’t particularly bright. If you’ve delved into “Fire & Blood,” you’d be well aware that the Dance of the Dragons has always been a tale of sorrow. As Season 2 nears its end, numerous battles loom on the horizon, and regardless of who emerges victorious, the realm will be left in ashes. Those leading the armies seem to harbor reservations about their choices, but they can only cling to their convictions or face extinction.
In an ironic twist, it is Ser Criston Cole who articulates the stark truth that becomes evident: “Dragons dance, and humans are merely dust beneath their feet. All our grand ideas, all our efforts, amount to naught.” By the end of Season 2, Daemon, his former dueling opponent from the very first episode, reaches a similar realization. He understands that he cannot cause the earth to quake, nor can any individual. Regardless of wealth, thrones, or dragons, one remains but a trivial fragment in the face of an overwhelmingly vast and humbling world – a world that can be as merciless and fearsome as a dragon, yet never truly subdued.
What have the cast and crew said about the ending of House of the Dragon Season 2?
Emma D’Arcy discussed Rhaenyra’s character progression in “House of the Dragon” Season 2 during an interview with GQ. According to the actor, throughout the show, Rhaenyra has been developing a heightened religious fervor. In times of grief, people often find solace in certain beliefs, and this appears to be the case with Rhaenyra. However, there seems to be a self-centered aspect to her faith. It seems that she is using her religion to strengthen her claim to divine right.
Olivia Cooke recently talked about her character Alicent’s position at the end of Season 2 with Time, noting the transformation she’s undergone throughout the last eight episodes. As someone who attempted to kill Rhaenyra in a tit-for-tat moment, Alicent appears significantly more humbled than we’ve seen before, according to Cooke. Regarding the fan theory of Rhaenicent (their relationship), Cooke suggests it could stem from a deep bond between childhood friends, with boundaries potentially becoming less clear. She hints at this intricate connection and wonders what impact it might have in the future.
As a dedicated fan of “House of the Dragon”, I recently got insights from composer Ramin Djawadi about the climax of Season 2. In an interview with IndieWire, he shared how he skillfully employed the progressive development of specific melodies to portray the escalating chaos of the war. His words resonated with me: “It’s crucial to recall why they’re at war and where it might lead.” He added, “We’re striving to resolve issues, but somehow, things seem to drift even further apart with each attempt.”
How is the ending of House of the Dragon Season 2 different from the book?
One key distinction between “House of the Dragon” and its predecessor “Game of Thrones” lies in the fact that George R.R. Martin’s comprehensive storyline was already written when filming for the former began. Compared to the original series, which had some deviations from the source material, “House of the Dragon” has generally remained faithful to its foundation. However, there are considerable divergences between “House of the Dragon” and “Fire & Blood,” particularly in Season 2, where significant changes have been made.
1. In the show, a key character named Nettles, who is one of the four dragonseeds from the books, does not make an appearance at all. The younger portrayal of Alicent in the HBO adaptation has led to several narrative deviations, such as her and Rhaenyra’s secret relationships in Season 2. Additionally, Rhaenyra’s romantic involvement with Mysaria is a new development in the series.
The narrative of Daemon undergoes a significant change, as the battle against the Night King now forms part of his perspective, which was not present initially. Given his strong connection with Nettles in the novel, the absence of this character might pave the way for numerous fresh plotlines in upcoming seasons.
In terms of Rhaena’s dragon hunting adventure, it appears to be an innovative twist. Unlike her gloomy portrayal in the novel at the Eyrie, she instead forms a bond with a young dragon hatchling rather than a fully grown wild dragon. The show seems to be laying groundwork for a significant development in Rhaena’s storyline. Since it is already departing substantially from the original narrative, it remains uncertain how this narrative will unfold.
How House of the Dragon Season 2 sets up Season 3
As a dedicated gamer, I’m thrilled to share that “House of the Dragon” has officially been greenlit for Season 3! George R.R. Martin himself hinted at a grand total of four seasons in the making. If you ask me, Season 2 could very well go down as the prelude to an epic, brutal tale yet to unfold, especially if it sticks close to the events laid out in the book. Buckle up, folks, because this is going to be one heck of a ride!
In the Season 2 finale, it seems we catch a glimpse of Prince Daeron Targaryen and his dragon, Tessarion, as they fly over an advancing Hightower army. As Rhaenyra and Daemon amass their forces for significant land battles, the upcoming skirmishes promise to be monumental. The confrontation between Corlys’ naval blockade and the Triarchy fleet, a crucial event in “Fire & Blood,” also awaits. If Rhaenyra captures King’s Landing following Alicent’s advice, she might achieve a hollow victory with Aegon already smuggled out of the city. With more individuals claiming dragons emerging, we can expect even more dangerous aerial duels in the future.
In this book, we won’t reveal who emerges victorious in the Targaryen civil war. However, brace yourself for unexpected turns and tragic endings among the characters. It’s best not to become overly attached to any particular character, as many might face untimely demises. Unfortunately, the inhabitants of Westeros won’t be so lucky.
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2024-08-05 05:31