Key Takeaway:
HBO’s “House of the Dragon” explores medieval conflicts, values, and societal norms in the fictional world of Westeros. The show reflects the enduring issues of hereditary succession and medieval misogyny, highlighting the intractable feuds between the Bracken and Blackwood families. The show also highlights the impact of elite rivalries on the common people, with Mysaria, an immigrant and former thief, illustrating the struggle of the common people. The unrest in Westeros echoes historical uprisings like the English Peasants’ Revolt of 1381, and Rhaenyra’s internal conflict about her role as queen resonates with contemporary political dilemmas. The show transcends its fantasy roots, offering a deeper understanding of both medieval and modern history.
Medieval history often feels distant and arcane, yet its echoes can be found in the most unexpected places, even within the realms of fantasy. HBO’s “House of the Dragon” serves as a vivid tapestry that intertwines medieval conflicts, values, and societal norms, demonstrating how history can be reflected in the most fantastical narratives.
A Medieval Source
Imagine England in the 12th century, a land torn apart by civil war during the Anarchy, a period ignited by King Henry I’s bold attempt to crown his daughter, the Empress Matilda. Fast forward to the fictional world of Westeros, where King Viserys faces a similar struggle as he names his daughter Rhaenyra his heir. This parallel not only sets the stage for epic drama but also brings to light the enduring issues of hereditary succession and medieval misogyny.
As the new season of “House of the Dragon” unfolds, it delves deeper into themes of family strife, justice, and the influence of common folk—universal themes that resonate across time.
Feuds That Span Generations
One storyline that vividly captures the essence of medieval factionalism is the bitter feud between the Bracken and Blackwood families. This animosity, steeped in history and bloodshed, escalates in a dramatic scene during Princess Rhaenyra’s tour to find a husband. A young suitor from the Blackwood family kills a Bracken heckler, igniting a fresh wave of violence.
Season Two thrusts viewers into the heart of this conflict, with bands of Bracken and Blackwood youths clashing in a disputed pasture. Insults fly, swords clash, and bodies fall. The battle leaves the pasture strewn with corpses, including the Blackwood patriarch. Yet, this victory is fleeting, as the Blackwoods, driven by vengeance, ally with Princess Rhaenyra’s husband, Daemon, and unleash a reign of terror on their enemies.
Medieval Parallels
The intractable feuds of Westeros mirror the volatile reality of medieval Europe, where early Germanic kingdoms lacked the institutions to maintain order. Victims of crimes often sought personal vengeance, leading to cycles of retribution. Early Germanic law attempted to curb this violence by assigning monetary values to various crimes, encouraging compensation over bloodshed. Each injury and even murders had a precise worth, known as “wergild” or “man money,” based on the victim’s social status.
Over time, medieval kingdoms developed more sophisticated legal systems. By the 12th century, English common law had emerged, featuring inquests, grand juries, sheriffs, and trial juries. Yet, the king remained the final arbiter of justice.
The Plight of the Common Folk
While noble houses battle for power, the common people often bear the brunt of their ambitions. Season Two of “House of the Dragon” shifts focus to the everyday people of Westeros, highlighting the impact of elite rivalries on the vulnerable populace. Mysaria, an immigrant and former thief, epitomizes this struggle. Her journey from a life of hardship to becoming a confidant of Rhaenyra offers a keen perspective on how the machinations of the powerful trickle down to affect the common folk.
Rhaenyra’s naval blockade of King’s Landing exacerbates the suffering of ordinary people. Food prices soar, hoarding becomes rampant, and hunger incites violence. The starving masses, desperate and hopeless, are trapped by royal decree. Mysaria’s astute observations reveal the potential for revolt, advising Rhaenyra to consider the power of the people she governs.
Medieval Uprisings and Modern Parallels
The unrest in Westeros echoes historical uprisings like the English Peasants’ Revolt of 1381, where widespread discontent with taxation and abuse of power led to violent rebellion. Rhaenyra’s strategic release of food under her banner ignites a riot against her opponents, demonstrating the might of the common people.
Rhaenyra’s internal conflict about her role as queen—whether to ensure peace and stability or to claim the throne at any cost—resonates with contemporary political dilemmas. Her reflections evoke the challenges faced by today’s leaders amidst political division, rising inequality, and threats of civil strife.
Fantasy Or Truth?
“House of the Dragon” transcends its fantasy roots, offering viewers a lens through which to explore timeless themes of power, justice, and societal conflict. By weaving together historical parallels and rich narratives, the show provides a deeper understanding of both the medieval past and our modern world. It’s a reminder that the echoes of history, whether in the grandeur of royal courts or the struggles of common folk, continue to shape our present and future.
