As a devoted fan of George R.R. Martin’s intricately woven tales set in the captivating world of Westeros, I have eagerly anticipated the arrival of House of the Dragon – the much-anticipated prequel series to Game of Thrones. Having immersed myself in Martin’s novels, I have grown deeply connected to the complex characters and their intriguing histories.
As a devoted cinema enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that the captivating second season of House of the Dragon hasn’t held back in delving deeper into the repercussions of the explosive fourth episode.
An HBO fantasy drama sequel, featuring House Targaryen, unfolds as the long-awaited civil war reaches its violent peak in an epic clash known as the Dance of Dragons.
As a movie buff, I’d describe it this way: In the fourth installment, I watched in awe as Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen (Emma D’Arcy) and King Aegon II Targaryen (Tom Glynn-Carney) went head-to-head in an epic dragon battle above Rook’s Rest. The intensity was palpable, with key players locked in a deadly dance atop their fearsome mounts. Sadly, not all made it through unscathed.
After the calamitous confrontation, the ensuing episode, titled “Regent,” delved into the repercussions. Prince Aemond Targaryen (portrayed by Ewan Mitchell) assumed the role of Prince Regent and guardian of the realm.
In other parts, Prince Daemon Targaryen (Matt Smith), who is undergoing a mental breakdown at Harrenhal’s ominous castle, is joined by the enigmatic figure of Alys Rivers (Gayle Rankin). How does she factor into these unfolding events?
As the past haunts our characters in the present, what decisions will they make for their futures?
Certainly, the TV show is inspired by George R.R. Martin’s book “Fire and Blood.” However, it’s intriguing to consider how significantly the show departs from the source material.
What does the series House of the Dragon change from the book Fire and Blood?
House of the Dragon season 2 episode 5 – Regent
In the second season’s fifth episode, we find a strong resemblance to the source material “Fire and Blood,” yet there are some modifications made.
In the novel, Ser Criston Cole advocates for Prince Aemond Targaryen to assume the roles of Prince Regent and Protector of the Realm. However, there’s no indication in the book that Dowager Queen Alicent Hightower aspires to become the Queen Regent.
Hugh Hammer is consistently depicted as a downtrodden commoner in King’s Landing, instead of being shown as an armed guard at Dragonstone.
In the novel, Lord Corlys Velaryon is depicted having confronted Queen Rhaenyra in person with disagreements, whereas in the show, he appears more reluctant to support her after the demise of Princess Rhaenys. In the television adaptation, it’s Baela who convinces Corlys to rejoin Team Rhaenyra’s cause, but according to the book, it is Prince Jacaerys who does the persuading instead.
In the novel, Jaecerys sends Princes Aegon and Viserys to live in Pentos, whereas Rhaenys goes with Prince Joffrey to the Vale according to the series adaptation.
In the series, Jacaerys from the book suggests that the Blacks look for individuals with Valyrian descent as bastards to train as dragon riders.
In the story, Jacaerys’s arrangement regarding the Twins and its specific timing is unique and exclusive to the series. Similarly, Rhaenyra frequently engages in deep conversations with her trusted counselor, Mysaria, and these interactions are also novel to the narrative.
In the show, an unique storyline unfolds, detailing Daemon’s power struggles in the Riverlands and his mental turmoil, represented by disturbing visions of potential incestuous relationships with his mother Princess Alyssa Targaryen and his deceased wife Lady Laena Velaryon. Additionally, Daemon’s encounters with Alys Rivers are exclusive to the series.
House of the Dragon season 2 episode 4 – The Red Dragon and the Gold
The fourth episode of House of the Dragon’s second season follows the novel closely, but there are a few adjustments.
In the story, Ser Gwayne Hightower was previously absent from the Battle of Rook’s Rest, as mentioned in the book where he remained in King’s Landing and didn’t participate in Ser Criston Cole’s military campaign. However, an alternate portrayal could be:
In the literary work, it was all part of Ser Criston’s strategy for King Aegon to join the fight against the Blacks. However, defying the counsel of those around him, including his own mother, Dowager Queen Alicent Hightower, he chose to participate actively in the battle instead.
In the series, Prince Aemond Targaryen is portrayed as intentionally trying to hurt both King Aegon and Princess Rhaenys Targaryen during their battle. However, the novel does not indicate that Aemond deliberately harmed his own brother.
At Harrenhal, the mental decline of Prince Daemon Targaryen adds an unique touch to the storyline. On the other hand, the mysterious and witch-like actions of Alys Rivers align with the intriguing gossip circulated about her character within the novel.
The book didn’t provide any indication that Princess Rhaenys knew about Lord Corlys Velaryon having fathered bastard children, such as Alyn of Hull. However, the series implies that she wasn’t oblivious to this fact.
In King’s Landing, many events unfold, such as Alicent’s unique herbal tea for inducing abortion, which are creations exclusive to the television show.
In the novel, Rhaenys and Corlys presided over the Blacks’ war council during Rhaenyra’s absence, which is true to the source material. Additionally, Rhaenys bravely volunteered to join the fight at Rook’s Rest, ultimately resulting in her demise.
In the storyline, Aegon’s recurring dream and the prophecy Rhaenyra shared with her son Jaecerys are unique to the series.
House of the Dragon season 2 episode 3 – The Burning Mill
There were a number of changes from the book Fire and Blood.
In simpler terms, the event of Prince Daemon seizing Harrenhal and the surrender of Ser Simon Strong transpired earlier in this narrative compared to the book’s sequence. These incidents happened prior to the demise of Prince Lucerys Velaryon in the original text.
In the books, Daemon’s melancholic residency at Harrenhal and his introspective turmoil, including his interactions with Alys Rivers, are unique to the storyline. Although these events are recorded, they do not involve extensive psychological examination in the text.
In King’s Landing, the majority of the scenes are new creations for the series yet remain faithful to the source material. They portray the progression of the storyline, such as Ser Criston’s military campaigns in the Riverlands depicted in the books.
Although these new elements in the story – the intensifying clash between King Aegon and Prince Aemond, as well as Alicent’s remorse for being near Ser Criston during the death of Prince Jaeherys – were not present in the original source material.
Simultaneously, in the story, Ser Gwayne Hightower, the latest addition to the series, had resided in King’s Landing for the majority of his life and didn’t accompany Ser Criston Cole for battles in the Riverlands. Instead, he fulfilled the role of Deputy Commander within the City Watch.
In the novel, Ulf White, a character, lived on Dragonstone instead of King’s Landing at this point in the storyline, and didn’t make any assertions about Targaryen ancestry yet.
As a passionate filmgoer, I’ve been captivated by the intense back-and-forth between Lord Corlys Velaryon and Princess Rhaenys Targaryen on the screen. In the novel, there are certainly debates about who should inherit Driftmark, but the particular conflict between these two characters is exclusively crafted for the series.
I’m thrilled to share that in the final episode, I had the pleasure of witnessing an unprecedented encounter between Rhaenyra and Alicent. They delved into Viserys’s last wishes and the ominous prophecy of Aegon the Conqueror, both being captivating innovations added to the series for our enjoyment.
House of the Dragon season 2 episode 2 – Rhaenyra the Cruel
Arryc Cargyll and Erryc Cargyll’s fates are a topic of discussion in the book Fire and Blood. In one version, they both perish while weeping in each other’s arms. In another account, however, it is recorded that mortal wounds were inflicted on Arryc, but Erryc unfortunately ended his own life days later in agony. Alternatively stated, Arryc meets his end, while Erryc sadly takes his life under distressing circumstances.
In the story, it’s important to note that Mysaria didn’t play a role in stopping Rhaenyra’s assassination. Also, her discussions with the queen during the series are exclusive and new additions to the narrative.
As a long-time fan of this captivating series, I’ve seen my fair share of episodes that leave me on the edge of my seat. But this particular one stood out to me for its rich detail and originality. Much of it filled in the blanks of what came after Blood and Cheese’s actions, yet there were striking differences from what I had imagined.
I can’t speak for Queen Helaena, but if I were a fan describing her situation in simpler terms, I would say that she’s deeply distressed by recent events, yet she hasn’t lost her sanity due to her overwhelming grief.
In the novel, the Dowager Queen Alicent experiences deep regret for not being able to protect her daughter during that fateful moment, as she was instead involved intimately with Ser Criston. At a later time, she is restrained and silenced, horrified as she watches the murder of Prince Jaehaerys unfold before her.
I, following Ser Criston’s actions, can only interpret his reasons for dispatching Ser Arryn as rooted in bitter resentment towards my own shortcomings in my role, and an underlying desire to unleash aggression against Rhaenyra through him.
The sexual romance between Ser Criston and Alicent remains original and explicit for the show.
In the books, it’s accurate that King Aegon ordered the execution of the ratcatchers in King’s Landing. However, Ser Otto’s reaction of fury towards this decree is an addition exclusive to the series.
In addition, the story includes a scene where Prince Aemond Targaryen visits a brothel, an event not described in the book but consistent with his apparent preference for older women.
In the book, Ser Otto Hightower’s dismissal and Alicent’s defense of him are accurate. However, in the show, the sending of Ser Otto to Highgarden to negotiate with the Tyrells is a departure from the source material. In the story, dealing with rebellions in the Reach was the responsibility of Lord Ormund Hightower of Oldtown instead.
In the story, Hugh Hammer is portrayed as a resident of King’s Landing, married with a child. However, in the actual text, he is identified as an illegitimate son of a blacksmith who dwells on Dragonstone.
In this rendition, the characters Addam and Alyn from the novel are 15 and 14 in age, yet they have evolved into mature adults. Notably, Alyn now takes on the demeanor of the elder brother among them.
In simpler terms, before this episode in the “Fire and Blood” book, Prince Daemon Targaryen had already seized Harrenhal, reducing the apparent rift between him and Rhaenyra. The text did not feature a significant dispute over the management of Blood and Cheese or their contentious relationship issues.
In the book, Rhaenyra’s grief overpowered her, leaving her seeking revenge. However, now in this scenario, she has returned to being a compassionate and stable ruler.
House of the Dragon season 2 episode 1 – A Son for a Son
There were a number of changes from the book Fire and Blood.
In the novel “Fire and Blood,” Queen Helaena Targaryen is presented with a heart-wrenching decision: to choose between her eldest prince, Jaehaerys Targaryen, and youngest son, Maelor Targaryen, who must die. Heartbroken, Helaena selects her youngest child. However, the mercenaries Blood and Cheese betray her by taking the life of her eldest son instead, leaving Helaena devastated. In the TV series adaptation, there is only one prince mentioned, and Helaena is asked to identify which of her two sons is the one in question.
Alicent, the Dowager Queen, is kept away from the occurrence due to her secret liaisons with Ser Criston Cole.
In the novel, the authors delve deeper into the blossoming camaraderie between Prince Jacaerys Velaryon and Lord Cregan Stark at Winterfell. Conspicuously missing are the gossipy tales of Jacaerys’ alleged romantic involvement with Sara Snow, Cregan’s bastard sister, and any whispers of a clandestine marriage they shared.
In the novel, Prince Daemon conspires with Mysaria early on to eliminate one of Aegon’s sons, specifically identified as Lucerys’s killer, Aemond, in this instance.
In the TV show, Mysaria is held captive by Queen Rhaenyra and Prince Daemon at Dragonstone following an assault by the Hightowers in King’s Landing. However, in the books, she voluntarily works for them both and remains within the Red Keep.
In the same vein as the initial installment, Dowager Queen Alicent continues to bring depth and complexity to her character. She harbors strong feelings for Rhaenyra while staying committed to her goal of securing her son’s position on the Iron Throne.
As a passionate filmgoer, I can’t help but notice the subtle yet clear hints dropped throughout the series suggesting an intimate relationship between Dowager Queen Alicent and Ser Criston.
In the show, it’s clear that Prince Aemond Targaryen has a desire to outmaneuver his older brother, King Aegon II Targaryen, in strategic matters. This intent is plainly shown, as is the backing of Ser Otto Hightower and Ser Criston in carrying out these plans.
In the show, Lord Larys Strong subtly creates tension between Aegon and Ser Otto, influencing allegiances within the Red Keep for his own gain.
House of the Dragon season 1
Season 1 episode 1 – The Heirs of the Dragon
As a devoted cinema audience member, I’d describe it this way: In the opening episode, titled “The Heirs of the Dragon,” the momentous decision about who would inherit the throne from the late King Jaehaerys I Targaryen of Westeros was brought to a critical juncture. It came down to two contenders: Viserys Targaryen and his esteemed cousin, Princess Rhaenys Targaryen.
I was deeply disappointed as a fan when Rhaenys, a strong contender in the book, was ruled out of the succession race based on her gender, against the will of Queen Alysanne Targaryen and King Jaehaerys. However, Rhaenys wasn’t giving up just yet – she was determined to see her son Laenor Velaryon take the throne through his rights that stemmed from her lineage.
Instead of being a Targaryen like Viserys, Queen Aemma, played by Sian Brooke, was originally from House Arryn despite carrying Targaryen royal blood and sharing their physical traits.
In the books, Viserys is already quite aged when chosen as heir to the Iron Throne, despite being only 24 at the time of his succession two years later, earning him the nickname “The Young King.”
At the time of his second marriage, Viserys is also not yet 30 years old.
The friendship between Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen and Lady Alicent Hightower is explored more in the series, leading to increased tension between them as they ultimately clash later on.
In the book, Alicent is almost a decade older than Rhaenyra, but in this portrayal, they are shown to be around the same age. Originally, Alicent was 17 years old and Rhaenyra was just 7.
I’ve noticed that the show hasn’t touched upon the alleged reason for Ser Otto Hightower’s animosity towards Prince Daemon Targaryen yet. Some rumors suggest it stems from an incident where Daemon allegedly took Alicent’s virginity.
The book admits that this information might be a fabricated rumor from one of the fictitious sources in Mushroom’s history.
At the Tourney in the episode, Prince Daemon makes a suggestive request of Alicent for her favor, but he ultimately loses to Ser Criston Cole.
Could the series build on their connection in future?
In his last moments, Alicent, who was ahead of her time, took care of the ailing King Jaehaerys by reading aloud to him in his private chambers.
At the tournament held on the day Queen Aemma was expected to give birth, Ser Criston Cole is depicted overpowering Prince Daemon. However, in the source material, Cole had previously bested Daemon at a different tournament marking Viserys’s ascension, and he had already been sworn into the Kingsguard before these subsequent events took place.
In the book, the details about Queen Aemma’s labor and delivery of Baby Baelon, as well as their subsequent deaths, are described in more subtle terms. We learn that the Queen passed away during childbirth, and Baby Baelon lived only a day after.
In the program, Viserys consents to a cesarean delivery being carried out on Aemma, who is conscious and unwilling, as a last-ditch effort to save their child’s life. Sadly, Aemma passes away from her injuries during the procedure. Yet, the infant, named Baelon, does not survive for long afterward.
In addition to the presented options, the episode generally stays true to the events described in George R.R. Martin’s “Fire and Blood.” (For the sake of clarity or enhanced drama, some deviations may occur.)
Season 1 episode 2 – The Rogue Prince
In the second episode of “The Rogue Prince” series, several adjustments have been made.
In the story, Mysaria was expecting a child in the novel. However, after King Viserys stepped in, Prince Daemon ordered Mysaria to be sent back to Lys. Unfortunately, during the voyage, she experienced a miscarriage due to a violent storm. This tragic event deeply affected Daemon and his already cold heart grew even colder towards Viserys. Subsequently, Prince Daemon went back to the Vale of Arryn and reunited with his wife, Lady Rhea Royce.
In the novel, Princess Rhaenyra didn’t get credit for making Prince Daemon back off and giving back the egg. The show, however, presents her with a greater role in this particular narrative.
In the series, Princess Rhaenyra and King Viserys are portrayed as older than in the literature. In the books, Rhaenyra was a young girl, while Viserys was referred to as “The Young King,” having not reached his thirtyth birthday yet.
The show has brought to life the conflict surrounding the dragon egg and revealed that King Viserys missed an opportunity to reconcile with House Velaryon by marrying Lady Alicent instead, keeping the specifics of this decision mostly implicit.
In the world of “Game of Thrones: House of the Dragon,” I, as a devoted fan, was taken aback by an intriguing development: King Viserys’ decision to engage Lady Alicent. This twist held significant weight for me, particularly since the ages and friendship between Princess Rhaenyra and these two women have been deepened in the series adaptation. The emotional repercussions of this unexpected turn of events on Rhaenyra left me in a state of shock and horror.
In the end, Ser Criston secured a position within the Kingsguard prior to Queen Aemma’s demise in the book.
Season 1 episode 3 – Second Of His Name
In the third episode, “Second of His Name,” the sequence of events unfolds differently than what’s written in Fire and Blood. I’ve noticed this deviation while following along with the show.
In the book, Queen Alicent gives birth to Prince Aegon after Prince Daemon defeats the Crabfeeder.
The book portrays how the Crown continuously funds the ongoing conflict against the Crabfeeders, which is classified as a private war. Instead of focusing on the details of the series, it delves deeper into the war’s occurrences and King Viserys’ backing of Prince Daemon. Eventually, Prince Daemon ends the war by killing the Crabfeeder leader himself. Unfortunately, the text does not provide information about the participation of Ser Laenor or Ser Vaemond in this conflict.
In the book, Ser Vaemond Velaryon is represented as Lord Corlys’ nephew, but in this version, he is instead portrayed as his younger brother, expressing reservations about Prince Daemon’s strategies.
While in the show, Queen Alicent’s conflicts with Prince Aegon replacing Princess Rhaenyra are a recent development and give her character more depth as she is continually supported by her father, Ser Otto. In contrast, in the book, Queen Alicent is solely focused on advancing her son’s position.
In other parts of the story, Princess Rhaenyra is depicted as displeased with the wedding of Alicent to King Viserys because of her past friendship with Alicent. However, in the beginning of the book, she appears content with the union – but this peace is later disturbed.
Finally, the age changes for King Viserys, Princess Rhaenyra and Queen Alicent remain.
Season 1 episode 4 – King of the Narrow Sea
In the fourth episode of House of the Dragon, several adjustments were made compared to Fire and Blood during the adaptation process.
As an admirer of the intrigue in this captivating tale, I find myself at a stage where Alicent has subtly yet persistently advocated for Aegon’s succession to King Viserys. In unison with her efforts, Ser Otto backed her cause, leading ultimately to his removal as Hand when Viserys remained steadfast in his decision. This pivotal moment unfolded prior to the infamous Daemon-Rhaenyra scandal.
Alicent and Rhaenyra had also already fallen out and factions began to form around them.
The storyline offers a clear explanation of the incidents involving Rhaenyra’s loss of virginity, as the fictional history presented in Fire & Blood provides conflicting accounts about the encounter between Daemon and Rhaenyra, leading to Viserys’ falling out with his brother for a second time.
In one interpretation, Rhaenyra and Daemon were discovered sharing a bed, with Rhaenyra desiring marriage to him, but Viserys forbade the union. An alternative portrayal, more in line with the series, illustrates Daemon covertly taking Rhaenyra out of the city to teach her intimate skills, observing prostitutes and later practicing with him. This instruction was intended to help Rhaenyra seduce Ser Criston, but when she tried, he was taken aback by her advances.
Moreover, Daemon is banished from the Seven Kingdoms altogether and does not go to the Vale as depicted in the book. Consequently, he comes back to carry on fighting in the Stepstones.
After the scandal in the book, the discussion around Rhaenyra’s betrothal heats up, with Alicent being the one to advocate for her to marry Aegon. However, Viserys views this as a sign of Alicent’s ambitions rather than a necessary arrangement. Additionally, before the matter is officially settled, Rhaenyra takes her seat at Dragonstone.
According to the King and his inner circle’s collective judgment, the most advantageous marriage for Rhaenyra would be with Ser Laenor Velaryon, the offspring of Lord Corlys Velaryon and Princess Rhaenys Targaryen. This aligns with the information presented in the book.
Season 1 episode 5 – We Light the Way
In simpler terms, when looking at House of the Dragon episode 5 versus the book Fire and Blood, there are several differences in how events are presented.
In the story, it’s never indicated that Daemon caused Lady Rhea’s demise, yet it’s evident that such an event would have profited him. Following her fall, Rhea endures prolonged agony before eventually succumbing to her injuries in severe pain. The author quickly puts a stop to Daemon’s efforts to claim Rhea’s inheritance, and he is warned not to set foot in the Vale. Notably, Rhea passes away after Rhaenyra marries Laenor in the narrative.
The show delves deeper into the discussions surrounding the marriage of Rhaenyra and Laenor, revealing concerns regarding Laenor’s sexuality. However, these apprehensions are addressed in a practical manner by everyone involved.
Here, we learn that Alicent’s discovery of Rhaenyra’s hidden romantic relationships leads her to confront her former friend and adopt the Hightower green in her attire. Previously, Alicent had clashed with Rhaenyra and advocated for her son Aegon to marry Rhaenyra over Laenor, but her aspirations were thwarted by Viserys. Though much of the plot involves Otto’s machinations, Alicent’s character evolves towards the end of the episode, aligning more with her book persona as she becomes determined to resist Rhaenyra and her claim to the throne.
The end of Criston and Rhaenyra’s romance is accurate to one of the accounts of the book on why he eventually hated her. In one account he suggested they run away together but she neglected him out of duty, earning his scorn. The other account saw them never consummate their romance despite Rhaenyra’s attempts to seduce him but Criston rejected her due to his vows, prompting her to seek solace with – and lose her virginity to – Ser Harwin Strong. The series also fleshes out how Criston went on to switch sides from being loyal to Rhaenyra to loyal to Alicent.
In the novel, Viserys is depicted as being significantly younger and in good health. Contrastingly, in the television show, his age is advanced and he’s suffering from poor health. The scene of him having a nosebleed and collapsing during the wedding ceremony is absent in the book.
In the story, it is at the tourney following the wedding where Ser Joffrey meets his demise, and he wore Laenor’s favor while Harwin donned Rhaenyra’s. The spurning of Criston by Rhaenyra led him to take up Alicent’s favor, resulting in him defeating both the Queen’s brothers, Harwin and then Joffrey. Though Viserys was displeased with this turn of events, Alicent went on to appoint Criston as her personal guard. Unlike in some versions, there is no scene where Alicent interrupts a suicide attempt by Criston.
Season 1 episode 6 – The Princess and the Queen
As a devoted cinephile and avid reader of George R.R. Martin’s “Fire and Blood,” I couldn’t help but notice some intriguing differences between episode 6 of HBO’s House of the Dragon and the source material. In my personal experience, these alterations added new layers to the story without compromising its essence.
In the story, Laena and Daemon got married secretly after Daemon killed a suitor of Laena’s (a Sea Lord from Braavos) with Viserys’ permission. Fearing Viserys’ wrath, they left Westeros and went to the Free Cities. Later, they returned to Driftmark to raise their family. Daemon’s new role as a father helped mend his relationship with Viserys. Rhaenyra was nearby at Dragonstone, leading to a close bond between her, Laena, and Laenor, as well as Daemon. During Laena’s labor, which was long and difficult, she collapsed while attempting to mount Vhagar. Daemon carried her back to bed where she passed away in his arms.
In simpler terms, the portrayal in the story of Rhaenyra and Laenor’s marriage, their relationships, the question of paternity for their children, and the court reactions from Alicent’s faction are quite similar to what is described in the book. Additionally, the rivalry between Alicent’s and Rhaenyra’s sons as depicted in the story also aligns with the text.
Up until now, the show has left out Prince Daeron Targaryen, Viserys and Alicent’s third son, who was around the same age as Rhaenyra when she gave birth to Joffrey.
As a dedicated fan of George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” series, I have spent countless hours immersed in the intricate world of Westeros, following the lives of its complex characters. In my opinion, one of the most intriguing storylines is that of Rhaenyra Targaryen and her children’s paternity.
In the story, there was no further conflict between Ser Criston and Ser Harwin leading to Harwin’s dismissal as Master of Coin and departure from King’s Landing. Additionally, there were no instances where Lyonel attempted to resign due to his son’s misconduct, contrary to this portrayal.
Later in the story, Lord Lyonel Strong and Ser Harwin Strong meet their demises, following other unfolding events and character deaths.
As a passionate cinemagoer, I can’t help but feel frustrated when a movie leaves essential questions unanswered, like who was behind the fatal fire at Harrenhal that claimed Lord Lyonel and Ser Harwin’s lives. The suspects list is long and intriguing: Larys Strong, Prince Daemon, driven by his desire for Rhaenyra, Lord Corlys as punishment for Harwin’s infidelity with Laenor, or even the enigmatic King Viserys himself, trying to silence whispers about his grandchildren.
Season 1 episode 7 – Driftmark
A number of changes were made comparing the book Fire and Blood to House of the Dragon episode 7.
In the story, Lady Laena Velaryon passed away at Driftmark, resulting in her children residing there permanently. Rhaenyra’s sons lived at Dragonstone, while Daemon’s daughters were situated nearby on Driftmark. The children grew up closely, sharing proximity due to their respective locations.
At Driftmark, there was a big funeral attended by many people, but it wasn’t for Lady Laena as depicted in the story. Instead, it was in honor of her brother, Ser Laenor.
After the demise of Laena and Laenor in the novel, Lord Lyonel Strong and Ser Harwin Strong met their end in the flames at Harrenhal. In the show, this occurred during the preceding episode.
In the book, Viserys and Alicent had a third son named Daeron who is absent here.
As a movie reviewer, I’d put it this way: In an unexpected twist from the source material, the character of Ser Harrold Westerling remains alive on screen. Had the series stayed true to the book’s timeline, this valiant knight would have met his end during the time jump.
In simpler terms, Princess Rhaenys knows for certain who the fathers of Rhaenyra’s children are, whereas Lord Corlys seems unconcerned about this fact as he focuses on his personal goals.
In the novel, the stories of Lady Baela and Lady Rhaena Targaryen didn’t intersect with the incident where Aemond lost his eye, and they weren’t directly implicated in that tale.
In the show, the tale of Prince Aemond losing an eye and the ensuing argument matches the book. However, the heated reaction and physical clash between Queen Alicent and Rhaenyra are new additions to the series.
In the story, after Aemond lost his eye, King Viserys passed down two rulings in response. One was to forbid slander against Rhaenyra’s children as bastards. The other was that Alicent and her kids had to go back to King’s Landing, while Rhaenyra and hers stayed on Dragonstone. Daemon, who was located at Driftmark, found this arrangement satisfactory since it brought him closer to her.
The narrative clearly depicts Rhaenyra and Daemon’s romantic involvement and the arrangement of their future union, which is facilitated by the circumstances surrounding Ser Laenor. Although their sudden marriage in the text raises eyebrows, it becomes clear that this was meticulously planned beforehand.
At the Spicetown fair in the story, Ser Qarl took the life of Ser Laenor amidst disputes with merchants present.
The book presents several rumored theories about what happened to Ser Laenor. One theory goes that Daemon arranged for Qarl to murder Laenor and then assisted him in escaping on a ship before Daemon himself killed Laenor. Another possibility is that Qarl became envious after Laenor began seeing a new lover, leading to a heated argument and ultimately, Qarl taking Laenor’s life and disappearing afterwards.
In the storyline, Ser Laenor contrives a ruse of his own demise and flees with his lover, Ser Qarl, beyond the Narrow Sea. Meanwhile, Westeros is under the impression that he has perished, leaving Rhaenyra mourning her late husband. The novel seems to authentically depict Ser Laenor’s supposed death.
After the fatalities of Lord Lyonel Strong and Ser Harwin Strong at Harrenhal, and with Ser Otto Hightower back in King’s Landing, Daemon and Rhaenyra got married according to the book’s account.
Season 1 episode 8 – The Lord of the Tides
There were a number of book changes when adapting Fire & Blood for House of the Dragon episode 8.
In this episode, we leap forward in time, skipping over a contentious issue from the book: Rhaenyra and Daemon’s decision to name their firstborn son Aegon. I was part of Team Alicent, who saw her eldest son as the rightful heir to the original Aegon the Conqueror’s name.
The show has entirely omitted the third son of King Viserys and Alicent: Prince Daeron Targaryen.
The book introduces Prince Jaehaerys Targaryen, Princess Jaehaera Targaryen, and Prince Maelor Targaryen as the unnamed children of Aegon the Elder and his wife Helaena in the show.
In the novel, Aegon had previously sired two illegitimate offspring: one with a girl whose virginity was bought in an auction on the Silk Street, and the other with one of his mother’s household servants.
In the novel, Lord Corlys fell gravely ill with a fever, contrasting with the television series in which he gets hurt during a fight on the Stepstones.
Here, the character Ser Vaemond Velaryon is portrayed as Lord Corlys’s sibling in this adaptation, rather than his eldest nephew as described in the original text.
In the story, Ser Vaemond meets his end when Rhaenyra orders Daemon to carry out the deed. Following this event, Vaemond’s family goes to King’s Landing to seek vengeance and demand justice from the monarch. However, in the narrative, the king is ailing and overweight, making it an immediate concern for him when he learns about these allegations. Not long after, during an audience with Rhaenyra, Viserys suffers a fall while seated on the Iron Throne, causing him to become seriously ill and raising doubts about his survival. At this critical juncture, Rhaenyra summons her personal maester, Gerardys, who manages to save the king by amputating two of his fingers – an action that ultimately proves crucial for Viserys’ recovery.
In the novel, Viserys throws a banquet to mark his healing and bring the Greens and Blacks back together. The scene in the text is faithfully recreated on screen, though certain elements are left out, such as Ser Otto and Prince Daemon’s toasts to one another. However, unlike in the book, this gathering results in physical confrontations in the television adaptation.
In the text, it is mentioned that Grand Maester Mellos, who met his end between episodes 5 and 6, passed away after the feast. This incident sparked a contentious dispute over his successor, with the Blues and Greens factions engaging in fierce disagreements. Eventually, the Citadel at Oldtown made the decision to appoint Grand Maester Orwyle as the new maester.
In the novel, Viserys falls ill after the feast and hands over responsibilities to Ser Otto prior to lying down for bed.
In the novel, Princess Helaena and her kids make a final visit to Viserys before he retires for the night and passes away peacefully. Meanwhile, Rhaenyra had already gone back to Dragonstone and was getting ready to welcome the birth of their third child from her union with Daemon.
Two years after the ruling on Driftmark’s inheritance and the feast celebrating Viserys’ recovery in the novel, Viserys passes away.
During Viserys’ illness, the series elevates Alicent’s influence in governing the kingdom, making her role more significant.
An unexpected sad twist emerges in the storyline as Rhaenyra and Alicent seem on the verge of making amends, only for a miscommunication by Viserys to set them at odds once more, forcing them into another confrontation.
Season 1 episode 9 – The Green Council
As a passionate cinephile, I’d be happy to share my perspective on the creative process behind transforming “Fire and Blood” chapter into “House of the Dragon” episode 9, titled “The Green Council.”
In the ongoing tale, Alicent firmly believes that King Viserys explicitly expressed his preference for Aegon to take the throne, making this a unique development for the show.
Before these occurrences in Fire and Blood, Ser Harrold Westerling had passed away and been succeeded as Lord Commander of the Kingsguard by Ser Criston Cole.
In the story, Princess Rhaenys Targaryen wasn’t at King’s Landing when King Viserys passed away and Aegon II was crowned, so any scenes featuring her interaction with her dragon Meleys during these events are exclusive to the show.
According to the account in the book, it is strongly suggested that Lord Lyman Beesbury was fatally wounded with a slash to his throat at the Green Council by Ser Criston Cole.
At the Green Council in Fire and Blood, Lord Larys Strong attended as both the Lord Confessor and Master of Whisperers. In the storyline, he proposed that they all take a solemn oath using their own blood to uphold their agreed-upon plan. However, it’s important to note that all of Lord Larys’ scenes during this episode are original creations for the series – including his interaction with Alicent.
In their secret meetings, Lord Larys’ unique reaction to Queen Alicent, which involves a romantic subplot, sets this series apart.
In the novel “Fire and Blood,” Ser Erryk Cargyll was already stationed at Dragonstone alongside Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen when her father, King Viserys I, passed away. The narrative depicts him as assuming a function similar to that of Ser Steffon Darklyn in the story, by rallying for Rhaenyra’s cause and fleeing King’s Landing with the late king’s crown. However, it is important to note that in this book, Ser Erryk swore allegiance to protect Rhaenyra instead of her younger brother Aegon.
In the book, Grand Maester Orwyle comes across as being neutral at the very least, and mildly supportive of Rhaenyra at most. However, in contrast, the series depicts him as actively pushing for Rhaenyra’s assassination.
In the novel, Alicent expresses fewer reservations towards Rhaenyra and believes that the princess poses a threat to her children, necessitating action against her. Criston, too, criticizes Rhaenyra and Daemon for their questionable behavior and warns of the potential decay of the palace if Rhaenyra ascends to the throne. Moreover, he expresses concern that Rhaenyra’s bastard son, Jacaerys Velaryon, would come after the throne following her, bringing misfortune upon the realm.
In the show, Alicent and Ser Otto’s clash concerning their history and the approach to the throne succession is a fabricated storyline.
In the novel, Aegon initially refuses to seize the throne from Rhaenyra but changes his mind after being persuaded by Ser Criston. Criston had forewarned Aegon that Rhaenyra planned to eliminate Alicent’s children and potentially his own as well.
In the novel, Alicent placed the crown on her daughter Helaena during the coronation ceremony, declaring her as the new Queen Consort of the Seven Realms, and then respectfully bent before her.
In the show, Ser Otto Hightower’s professional bond with Mysaria stands out uniquely. Similarly, Larys’ efforts to eliminate the White Worm present an innovative twist in the storyline.
The show adds credibility to the speculation in the novels that Aegon had sired several illegitimate offspring. One young kid among them has been particularly emphasized in the series. It’s yet to be determined if these children will play more significant roles in the story unfolding.
In the television series “House of the Dragon,” we’ve met two of Aegon and Helaena’s offspring – yet in the source material, there are three: Jaehaerys, Jaehaera, and Maelor.
Season 1 episode 10 – The Black Queen
In transforming Fire and Blood into House of the Dragon’s episode 10, titled “The Black Queen,” several adjustments were made.
In “Fire and Blood,” Daemon consistently pushes for confrontation whereas Rhaenyra tries to find peaceful resolutions. The text does not depict any instances of Daemon physically harming Rhaenyra during their disputes.
From a movie buff’s perspective, I’d say: In the show, the discussions between Rhaenyra and Daemon about Aegon’s prophecy are entirely fresh and exclusive to the series.
In the story, Ser Otto Hightower doesn’t make an appearance at Dragonstone in the text, and no pages are dedicated to Rhaenyra’s perspective from Alicent. Instead, Grand Maester Orwyle goes to Dragonstone with certain conditions before being stripped of his title, and it is then bestowed upon Maester Gerardys. This occurs during a pivotal moment in the book where Rhaenyra openly refuses Orwyle’s terms and sends him a message for Aegon: she intends to seize either his crown or his head.
In the show adaptation, Rhaenyra goes to great lengths to prevent war, more so than in the original text, yet finds herself unwittingly drawn into conflicts.
In a more conversational way, you could say: The show portrays Rhaenys as the character who persuades Lord Corlys Velaryon to support Rhaenyra’s cause, an event not mentioned in the original text.
In the novel, Prince Aemond Targaryen intentionally slays Prince Lucerys Velaryon during their confrontation while riding Vhagar. However, in the series, Vhagar is portrayed as independently taking Lucerys’ life, leaving Aemond shocked and distraught over the outcome.
In the novel, instead of Ser Erryk Cargyll, it is Ser Steffon Darklyn who presents the crown to Rhaenyra on Dragonstone. Despite this change, Ser Erryk had previously been serving as Rhaenyra’s protective guardian on the island.
What book is House of the Dragon based on?
House of the Dragon is based on the fictional popular history book Fire and Blood.
The 2018-released book traces the story of House Targaryen, from the arrival of King Aegon I Targaryen (also known as Aegon the Conqueror) in Westeros up to the early period of King Aegon III Targaryen’s rule.
This historical account contains six volumes, available as follows:
- The Targaryen Conquest – King Aegon I Targaryen conquers the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros.
- The Peace of the Dragon – King Aegon I Targaryen rules over Westeros.
- The Sons of the Dragon – The reigns of Aegon’s sons, King Aenys I Targaryen and King Maegor I Targaryen, followed by the early reign of Aenys’s own son, King Jaehaerys I Targaryen.
- Heirs of the Dragon – The last years of King Jaehaerys I Targaryen’s lengthy reign and the succession debate that follows it.
- The Dying of the Dragons – The civil war known as ‘The Dance of Dragons’ that develops over the succession of King Viserys I Targaryen.
- Aftermath — The Boy King and His Regents – The early reign of King Aegon III Targaryen.
The TV show “House of the Dragon” explores the events detailed in the books “Heirs of the Dragon” and “The Dying of the Dragons.”
These volumes were previously partially released through two of George RR Martin’s novellas.
In 2014, “The Rogue Prince” was unveiled, recounting my experience under King Viserys I Targaryen’s rule and the ongoing discussions about his successor. Among the potential heirs, there was a questionable prince named Daemon Targaryen, brilliantly portrayed by Matt Smith in the production.
Before “The Princess and the Queen,” which came out in 2013, there is another novella told in chronological order.
The novel “The Princess and the Queen” recounts the turbulent events of “The Dance of Dragons,” a historic clash, and delves into the causes of the civil war among the Targaryen dynasty, instigated by the disagreements between Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen and Queen Alicent Hightower.
As I delve into these intricately woven novellas and their accompanying volumes, I find myself eagerly anticipating more. The richness of the storylines suggests that there is plenty more to explore in future seasons.
- Fire and Blood is available to purchase on Amazon for £7.99 in paperback and £15.85 in hardcover
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2024-07-19 16:41