Game of Thrones: The Great Divide Between TV and Books
When adapting A Song of Ice and Fire novel series into the Game of Thrones series, the creators were faced with the challenge of condensing a vast, intricate world into 80 episodes. This decision has led to significant alterations in character arcs, plotlines, and sorcery, making the TV show a narrative that diverges from the source material. Let's explore the most notable differences between the TV show and the books for Game of Thrones.
The Sansa Stark Dilemma
A prominent character who stands out in this shift is Sansa Stark. In the books, Sansa spends her time at the Vale disguised as Alayne Stone, daughter of Petyr Baelish. In contrast, in the TV show, Sansa returns to Winterfell, where she gets married to Ramsay Bolton, who later becomes her nemesis. This shift in storyline has significantly altered the character development of Sansa. In the books, her journey is more complex and nuanced, whereas in the TV show, her character transformation is more dramatic.
Magical Elements and Their Deletions
Weirwood Magic and Wargs are two key magical aspects that were significantly altered. In the books, Weirwood trees are sacred and home to spirits of ancient heroes and gods. For instance, in A Game of Thrones, the face of the heart tree in Winterfell represents the spirit of Rhaegar Targaryen, while the tree in Harrenhal represents Jaqen H'ghar. This element provides a rich spiritual and mythological backdrop to the narrative. In the TV show, these magical elements are severely limited, with only Bloodraven and the Three-Eyed Raven hinting at the presence of weirwood magic. Similarly, in the books, all Stark children are wargs except for Sansa, who lost her direwolf. This magical aspect is omitted in the TV series, as only Arya and Bran demonstrate this talent.
Mystery and Prophecy
Illyrio Mopatis and The Valonqar Prophecy are intriguing elements that were completely removed from the TV show. In the books, Illyrio Mopatis plays a significant role in supporting the Starks and cultivating young Bran Stark’s abilities. His wisdom and influence are vital to the narrative, while the Valonqar prophecy introduces a mysterious avenger who seeks vengeance on those responsible for the downfall of the Targaryens. This character could be Jon Arryn, Robert Baratheon, Joffrey Baratheon, Tywin Lannister, or even Gregor Clegane. This omission significantly alters the power dynamics and potential outcomes of the story.
Dragons and Consequences
Dragons and the Dance of Dragons are two critical elements that were heavily edited in the TV series. In the books, Daenerys Targaryen has three dragons, and Jaqen H'ghar possesses a dragon's egg that he intends to hatch. The Dance of Dragons is an essential subplot, representing the war between Rhaenyra Targaryen and her cousin Jacaerys Targaryen, with devastating consequences for King's Landing. In the TV show, these elements are either omitted or condensed into significant events that provide a different narrative trajectory, leading to a different outcome for the characters and the overall story.
The Faceless Men and Arya Stark
The Faceless Men have a pivotal role in Arya Stark's journey in the books. In the show, this aspect is also reduced in significance. In the books, young Arya is mentored by Jaqen H'ghar, who teaches her to become a Faceless Man or Woman. However, in reality, Arya meets other Faceless Men in Braavos who only kill for the right price, ensuring that their targets are deserving. They are wary of killing those they know, love, or hate. In contrast, the show significantly curtails this narrative, focusing more on Arya's personal vendetta and revenge.
The Night King and Cleganebowl
Lastly, the presence of the Night King and the Cleganebowl are notable omissions. In the books, the Night King is a major threat and the leader of the White Walkers, while the Cleganebowl, though an event in the show, is not nearly as impactful. The Night King represents the ultimate antagonist and the catalyst for the icy endgame, leading to a final confrontation with humanity. In the TV series, the Night King is a central figure but his role is somewhat diminished.
These notable differences highlight the complexity and depth of the A Song of Ice and Fire series and how the TV adaptation had to make significant changes to present a more linear and consumable narrative. However, it is these omissions and alterations that make both versions of Game of Thrones unique and compelling in their own right.