An Analysis of Confusion and Critique in Season 8 of Game of Thrones

Season 8 of Game of Thrones (GOT) sparked a wave of controversy, largely centering on plot elements that left viewers perplexed, such as the role of the White Walkers and the political drama surrounding the main characters. This article delves into the most confounding aspects of the season.

The White Walkers: A Mysterious and Overlooked Element

From the very first episode of the first season, the White Walkers (or White Walkers) were introduced as the looming threat to all of Westeros. The narrative emphasized that the true enemy was not the political infighting over the Iron Throne, but the impending "real war" between the "living and the dead." Yet, by the final season, their presence seemed overshadowed and their impact seemingly nullified. The consequences of the White Walker confrontation were minimal, with no significant change in the characters' relationships or the overall conflict. This left many viewers questioning the writers' intentions behind the storyline.

The Alliance between Jon and Daenerys: A Profound Misstep

The decision to unite Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen in a precarious alliance to fight the White Walkers led to an array of complications, both political and emotional. Critics argue that this union was nothing more than a misguided attempt to turn Daenerys from the morally upright leader to a sympathetic figure similar to Hitler. The lack of meaningful resolution and the senseless slaughter of the Unsullied elevated the atmosphere of nihilism, contributing to a season that felt empty and devoid of genuine substance.

Political Drama and Character Development

The political fallout after the defeat of the White Walkers was another major source of frustration. The factional politics and duplicity among the remaining characters created a parallel universe filled with relentless scheming and betrayal. While some side characters like Brienne, Davos, Tormund, and Podrick managed to maintain their likability, the majority of the main characters fell into disfavor. This shift in perception raises questions about the writers' intent to make the viewer disengage with the characters.

Character Motivations and Endings

The treatment of key characters throughout the final season also sparked debate. For example, the Unsullied's failure to execute Tyrion and Jon, despite not bothering to kill innocent civilians, was a significant point of contention. It appeared that the writers had deliberate intentions, but these often felt inconsistent or illogical. The significance of the lone wolf (B Greg) dying while the pack remains also remains unclear, with the idea that the group will never reunite adding to the season's confusion.

Conclusion

Season 8 of Game of Thrones provides a stark reflection on the importance of coherent storytelling and the impact of narrative choices on the audience's experience. Confusion and critique have inevitably followed, but they also serve as a catalyst for deeper analysis and discussions among fans. Whether one agrees with the criticism or not, it is undeniable that the season raised important questions about the direction and execution of the narrative.