Episode 5 of House of The Dragon marks the end of one phase and the beginning of another, not just a new chapter but a whole book.
Needless to say, the episode in itself was phenomenal and as always I've got quite a few things to say, or rather, point out.
A targaryen can never be nameless, ser Criston had already marked a path that Rhaenyra wouldn't walk upon. I see the origin of his fury. His proposal wasn't out of love, it originated out of regret and desperation to save his dignity.
We once again see the display of absolute dominance by the Targaryen's when Viserys stated that Rhaenyra's children may be born Valarion but they shall rule as Targaryens.
And again, when Viserys refuses to accept a chair in Corlys' throne room as no king, (especially not one residing on the iron throne) shall ever sit beneath another.
We finally see Otto sow the seed of Rhaenyra's betrayal in Alicent's mind which is further watered by ser Criston, (just because he wasn't patient enough to let Alicent complete her sentence).
I loved the subtle comparison of Alicent to the flowers which thrive where they aren't supposed to. She was expected to wither without her father by her side, but instead further solidifies herself as a formidable force by wearing her house's colors of war to Rhaenyra's betrothal celebration.
An enchanting parallel was drawn between the carriage ride in episode 3 and one in episode 5, both times Rhaenyra is treated as a commodity to benefit the realm. Earlier, she was expected to be a paragon of virtue and behave like an ideal sister (during Aegon's 2nd name day) and this time, she is expected to marry for the sake of an alliance between house Valarion and Targaryen.
We also see that Rhaenyra has completely forsaken the necklace gifted to her by Daemon as she attempts to erase him from both her subconscious and physical self.
I, for one, loved the phrase dining as we see fit because not only did Rhaenyra dine very well last episode, she wishes to continue to do so after, which again highlights how she loves to be in control.
Coming to the feast.
The entry of House Valarion gave me literal chills!! (I would be lying to say that I didn't start clapping tbh)
Daemon's entry was extremely symbolic of his mistakes. Last time, he entered with Rhaenyra walking by his side but now, he walks alone, TOWARDS Rhaenyra.
I have to applaud Daemon for coming back to king's landing (while in exile), to attend a feast (he certainly wasn't invited to), and to try and tempt the bride (his literal neice) to chose him instead. He not only dances with said bride but also proceeds to (almost???) Kiss her in front of her father (his brother) AND GET AWAY WITH IT.
(Rhaenyra tempting him like this didn't help either, but I loved each second of it)
(Viserys' face here is so funny)
And finally...
Alicent's entry was breathtakingly powerful, I couldn't take my eyes off her. I even felt an urge to bow, I believe she brought a perfect end to the chapter of her trying to reconcile with Rhaenyra and finally having enough.
(My fav scene, undoubtedly!l)
I have not read the books and all my interpretations are solely based on the series.
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it's DISTRESSING how much I like the scene transitions in shadow and bone. like they're so good. they're so fun!!!! the lead ins back and forth between the crows and alina are just great!!!!!! and everything ELSE is '!!!!!! ?????????????????????? alright I GUESS????? WHY are you doing this NOW'
I miss the goat btw. milo my beloved I hope you're happy
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