Game Of Thrones Season 1 Episode 2 Kingsroad
Overview of the Episode
Game of Thrones Season 1 Episode 2, Kingsroad, was aired on April 24, 2011, and directed by Tim Van Patten. The episode is based on George R.R. Martin's novel "A Song of Ice and Fire" and follows the aftermath of King Robert's visit to Winterfell, where he asked Eddard Stark to be his Hand of the King. In this episode, Bran Stark is fighting for his life, while his older brother Robb sets out for the King's Landing to confront the Lannisters.
Plot Summary
The episode opens with Bran Stark awakening from his coma, sustained after being pushed from a tower by Jaime Lannister in the previous episode. In Winterfell, Catelyn Stark keeps vigil by his side, while Ned Stark prepares to leave for King's Landing with his daughters, Sansa and Arya. On the Kingsroad, the caravan encounters the King's hunting party, led by Prince Joffrey Baratheon and including Arya's direwolf, Nymeria.
When Arya defends her direwolf against Joffrey's attacks, Joffrey threatens her with his sword. In response, Arya throws a rock at Joffrey's head, prompting Sansa to intervene and defend Joffrey. As a result, Arya's direwolf is killed, and Arya runs away from the caravan to avoid punishment.
Meanwhile, Jon Snow accompanies his uncle Benjen Stark to the Wall, where he meets his new brothers of the Night's Watch. In King's Landing, Ned Stark discovers the corruption and betrayal of his predecessor, Jon Arryn, and begins his investigation into the Lannisters' involvement with his death.
Back in Winterfell, Bran's condition worsens, and he is visited by Jaime Lannister, who attempts to kill him to prevent him from revealing their secret. However, Bran's mother Catelyn arrives in time to save him, and Jaime escapes. Robb Stark, Bran's older brother, decides to go to King's Landing to confront the Lannisters and demand justice for what they did to his family.
Analysis of the Episode
Kingsroad is a crucial episode in the Game of Thrones series, setting up the conflict between the Starks and the Lannisters, which would shape the entire series. The episode also reveals the political intrigue and corruption in King's Landing, providing an insight into the complexities of the game of thrones.
The episode also explores the theme of family, as the Starks try to stay together and protect their own. Bran's near-death experience brings the family closer together, while Jon Snow decides to leave his family to join the Night's Watch.
In addition, the episode highlights the power of loyalty, as Arya's direwolf dies while protecting her, and Catelyn Stark risks her life to save Bran from Jaime Lannister. The episode also showcases the contrast between the honorable Ned Stark and the scheming Lannisters, setting up the conflict that would shape the series.
Conclusion
Kingsroad is a pivotal episode in the Game of Thrones series, setting up the major conflicts and themes that would shape the rest of the series. The episode highlights the importance of family, loyalty, and honor, while also showcasing the political intrigue and corruption in the game of thrones. The episode ends with Robb Stark setting out for King's Landing, setting up the conflict that would come to define the series.
