Essay Questions

What does magic symbolize and what significance does it have in the novel?

Elements of the strange and supernatural become more and more frequent in the novel indicating the escalating threat of forces and powers beyond human understanding. Magic symbolizes the limitation of men as well as the incorrect understanding of the leaders of Westeros, that is, that they are the end-all and be-all of their world.

How is the theme of family discussed in the novel?

Family is a central theme in the book as it is set in a medieval-feudal fantasy universe where a person’s family is everything. Family determines what and how much resources a person has access to and to a very significant degree it determines your loyalties and the values you espouse. Family is not just a major theme but it is a major plot driver as a significant chunk of the plot is rooted and moved by the feuding of noble families as they jockey for position and power.

Why are bastards treated differently in Dorne and what significance does this have in the novel?

Bastards, particularly bastards of noble lineage, are largely treated as second-class citizens who are just a little bit higher than the peasantry. This is assuming of course that their progenitors acknowledge having fathered them in the first place. Many noble bastards would rather go to the Wall instead of going through the indignity of being treated as little better than servants. Dorne is an exception however as even illegitimate children are given the same rights as children from legitimate unions--albeit lacking the family name. This is a matter of major importance as Oberyn’s daughters are given access to his resources and the training that he has access to allowing him effectively to form his own, exceedingly loyal, extremely lethal personal guard.