Game of Thrones

Book vs. TV show

George R.R Martin's book vs. TV series

Game of Thrones is an American fantasy TV series that is set in medieval times. In the show we find noble houses such as the Starks in the North, the Lannisters in Westeros, the Baratheons at first holding the Iron throne, and the Targaryens who once reigned with dragons. As the title of the series suggests, over 8 seasons we follow the battle between the houses to win the Iron Throne and thus reign. The series thrives on conflicts, alliances, violence and betrayals between these houses. Furthermore, the show explores themes such as power, politics, and war. Although Game of Thrones is a TV show, the story is actually an adaptation based on George R.R. Martin's fantasy books, A Song of Ice and Fire. The story was brought to life by HBO in 2011 and ended in 2019. The series is known for its rich and complex storylines as well as numerous characters with interesting development throughout the seasons. The show is a mix of history, politics, wars, and strategic battles (Eldridge, 2024, para 1-4)

Cultural impact of the show

As the series progressed, it evolved into a cultural phenomenon, winning multiple awards and setting records in the TV industry. Beyond television success, Game of Thrones became big in merchandising, generating money in clothing, and toys and even influencing baby names. The series also sparked academic interest among scholars, leading to the creation of college courses and online articles exploring the multiple themes present in the show. Game of Thrones definitely left a mark in pop culture however, the show faced criticism for its graphic violence and portrayal of sexual violence, particularly towards female characters. Despite the years passed, the legacy of Game of Thrones continues, as evidenced by the successful spin-off series, House of the Dragon, which started in 2022 (Eldridge, 2024, para 5-6). 

The Painted Table (Game of Thrones) by Yanez Designs on Sketchfab