The Rise of Kings: Game of Thrones Season Two Review

We are two weeks into the second season of Game of Thrones, and let’s just say there is nothing to be disappointed about. I believe we can all agree with Ben Wyatt from Parks and Recreation when he says, “they would never cancel Game of Thrones, it’s a cross-over hit! It’s not just for fantasy enthusiasts, they’re telling human stories in a fantasy world!” Game of Thrones has successfully avoided the second season slums, and has delivered two action-packed episodes so far. With bloodshed just minutes into the first episode of the season, you know things are going to be good. Let’s take a look at where the characters have begun the new season.

King Joffrey: Name Day and Mommy Issues

The season opened on Joffrey’s name day only to see that he wasted no time in abusing his power for his own entertainment. Joffrey definitely has a case of Big Man on Campus syndrome, he thinks he is running the show on that Iron Throne of his, redecorating, and attempting to murder a man with win. However, let’s get real here, his mother is the one ruling the kingdom. Cersei has an agenda that her son knows nothing about, one that she plans on hiding from him as long as possible. As she said to Lord Baelish, “Power is Power’, and power she has, but for how much longer?

The Lannaister Brothers: One Out of Three Ain’t Bad

There’s not much to say about dear Jamie, he’s still a prisoner of the Starks, and it seems like he’s stuck with them for the long haul. But while Jamie is locked up, Tyrion is enjoying his freedom and power from he newly appointed role as the Hand of the King. If I could choose my top three characters from this show, Tyrion would definitely be on my list. No one foils the wicked plans of Cersei more than her ‘impish’ brother Tyrion, who so keenly reminds her that she has replaced him as “the disappointing child”, for loosing two out of three Starks. The reality of war is starting to hit the Lannaister’s and they are feeling the threat of destruction from inside the family and outside the castle walls. The real question though, is whether Tyrion will be on their side in the end. As he told Shae, “you can’t trust anyone in King’s Landing, they’re all liars”, and he could well be the biggest one of all.

The Starks: More Than Just Rebels

It’s no surprise that the Starks are out for revenge, and even more badass than they were before. Robb is looking to be King of the North, and with three victories in his pocket he is well on his way to succeeding. However, Robb isn’t the only Stark on a mission. While Robb’s headed South, Jon is making his way North beyond the wall to face an unforeseeable treat. During his journey we get a peak into the life of the wildlings, in particular Craster, and we are all left wondering the same thing as Jon, “if he marries his daughters, what does he do with his sons”? Troubling is brewing for Jon here, as it only took one meeting to get on Crasters bad side. So, here is to hoping Jon leaves Craster’s Keep with both of his hands.

Daenerys Targaryen: The Dragons Are Coming

It’s looking more than a little rough for Daenerys and her followers. With the loss of Drogo, she no longer has the validity or protection that she previously held under his reign. However, with the help of her loyal servant, Ser Jora, and lets not forget about the dragons, she will rise again and make her enemies scream. The comet predicated the coming of the dragons, and come they will.

Those Other Self-Proclaimed Kings

They are all coming for the crown: the battle has begun and “the night is dark and full of terrors”. While the major players in the game appear to be the Lannaisters and Starks, we can’t forget about the brothers of the late King Robert, Renly and Stannia, who are vying against each other for the throne as well. As Catelyn Stark said, “there’s a king in every corner now”, and each one is preparing for battle, so it’s time to choose a side.

This season promises plenty of violence, sex, and power struggle, and I personally can’t wait for what they have in store for us. Were you pleased with the first two episodes of the new season? Was there enough bloodshed and brothel time, or do you think the writers are being too tame? How is your favorite character holding up so far?

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