“George R.R. Martin Borrowed Liberally”: Game Of Thrones’ Real-Life Inspirations Explained By Medieval Expert.
A medieval expert has detailed the real-life inspirations behind “Game of Thrones” in a new video. The HBO series, based on George R.R. Martin’s beloved book series, premiered in 2011. It follows the lords and ladies of Westeros as they vie for the Iron Throne. The show is known for its shocking moments and memorable characters, many of which are drawn from real historical events and figures.
In a new video for Wired, Dr. Dorsey Armstrong, a Professor of English and Medieval Literature, explains the historical inspirations behind “Game of Thrones.”
Dr. Armstrong points out real-life parallels to events like the Red Wedding and characters such as Cersei Lannister and Robert Baratheon. Here are some of her insights:
“It’s well known that George R.R. Martin borrowed liberally from medieval history. The Red Wedding itself is based on Scottish history. In 1440, the young King of Scotland invited the young leaders of the Douglas clan to dine with him. When you’re invited into the feast hall, you dine with the king. The code of hospitality should maintain that no ill can come to you, and instead they were betrayed and beheaded.
“Much of the contest over the throne in Game of Thrones mirrors the rival factions of the late medieval Wars of the Roses. The Lancasters and the Yorks inspired the Lannisters and the Starks. The Lannisters have a name similar to Lancaster, and the one-syllable Stark name is reminiscent of York.
“The mad Targaryen king parallels King Henry VI, who suffered bouts of madness. Cersei Lannister resembles Margaret of Anjou, Henry VI’s queen. Her son was probably not Henry VI’s, and Henry himself doubted the conception, calling it a miracle. This is similar to Cersei, whose children are not Robert Baratheon’s but her twin brother Jamie’s.”
Martin Drawing From History Helps Make Game of Thrones Feel Real
What Sets the Westeros Tale Apart From Other Fantasy Stories
“Game of Thrones” and its spinoff, “House of the Dragon,” are set in the fantasy world of Westeros. This world features diverse geography, peoples, creatures, and magic, making it feel alive and unique. Dragons and dark magic distinguish “Game of Thrones” as a fantasy rather than a medieval drama, but much of the show feels real.
One reason “Game of Thrones” was so popular is its character drama. The show depicts characters betraying each other and the high human cost of political maneuvers and double-crosses. The fantasy elements are add-ons to what could otherwise be a historical retelling. The show’s ending was divisive partly because it went beyond Martin’s source material, losing some of its distinct storytelling style.
Even if viewers don’t know the real-life inspirations, Martin’s use of medieval history gives the show a sense of realism. This approach also applies to his “Fire & Blood” novel, which recounts the Targaryen family history. While understanding these historical parallels isn’t necessary to enjoy the show, they help set it apart from other fantasy stories.
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