A Game of Thrones

In what ways do Arya and Sansa Stark represent conflicting expectations of gender in the Seven Kingdoms? Does Martin suggest that either sister’s strategy is more successful at navigating these expectations for her own goals?

Jon comes close to breaking his vows to the Night’s Watch. What does his decision to stay at the Wall say about his understanding of family? How does this compare to other characters in the novel who face similar choices?

How does the trauma inflicted on Tyrion by his father represent a debt Tyrion wishes to repay?

Bran is a relatively passive character in A Game of Thrones. How does his perspective influence the narrative and the audience’s understanding of the world Martin is building?

In what ways do swords and weapons symbolize the great houses of the Seven Kingdoms? To what extent are the characters invested in this symbolism?

Daenerys steps out of her husband’s funeral pyre with three dragons. How does the birth of the dragons represent her newfound autonomy? What implications does this moment have for the wider world?

The A Song of Ice and Fire series is known for combining political intrigue with the supernatural tropes of epic fantasy. What influence does the presence of the paranormal have on the story, and how does this alter the expectations of the narrative?

In King’s Landing, Cersei and Jaime are the most prominent members of House Lannister. How do they differ from their brother Tyrion? How are they similar?