As previously highlighted, the fictional world of Westeros featured in Game of Thrones is inspired by late Mediaeval England. This world reiterates the traditional role of the woman, specifically the character of Sansa Starks highlights the challenges faced by women in these mediaeval times (Alesi, 2017). In the world of Game of Thrones, like in late Medieval England, women were nothing more than marriages for political alliances, hostages and had very limited agency (Alesi, 2017). Moreover, in the world of Westeros, the traditional role of queens and aristocratic ladies is well enforced (Alesi, 2017).
Indeed, the women of the show reinforce those ideas, specifically the character of Sansa Stark. When the show starts, Sansa Stark exemplifies the womanly virtues defined by the Westerosi elites (Spector, 2016, 172). She is well mannered, well dressed and is in love with the young Prince Joffrey. She believes that the king is wise, the prince is good and noble and that ladies must be beautiful and behave in a ladylike manner (Spector, 2016, 173).
Yet throughout the show, Sansa becomes aware of the corruption around her and starts to trust no one but herself. However, she remains a passive pawn filling the predetermined role of the mediaeval princess (Spector, 2016, 176). Up until season 4 we see Sansa as a weak girl, with no power, but there is a sudden shift in Sansa’s agency in season 4. She starts making her own dresses, she wears dark, leather gowns. No more weak and passive princess, she is reclaiming her agency and autonomy over her life and her own choices (Alesi, 2017).
The gown she wears, that she crafted herself, through this period reflects her assertion on her independence and self determination, moving away from this image of the shy girl, a pawn for others to manipulate (Alesi, 2017).
Sansa's story highlights the importance of female agency within the limitations imposed by society and the significance of women like Elizabeth of York, who navigated through difficult circumstances to assert their agency and influence.