‘Game of Thrones’ #ForTheThrone Countdown: “The Prince of Winterfell” (S2E8)

Previous Episode: “A Man Without Honor”

 

Episode: “The Prince of Winterfell” (Season 2, Episode 8)

Original Air Date: May 20, 2012

Director: Alan Taylor

 

Plot (via HBO)

Theon holds down the fort; Arya calls in her debt with Jaqen; Robb is betrayed; Stannis and Davos approach their destination.

 

Best Moment: The Stark boys are still alive

For all the mind-numbingly bad chills felt when it’s thought that Theon killed both Bran and Rickon by burning them alive, the total opposite feelings occur when it’s revealed that the young Starks are alive and hiding in the crypts. At a time when things are going so bad for the Stark family, including the release of Jaime by Catelyn, seeing Bran and Rickon alive and well is an emotional moment that delivers overwhelming hope.

 

Best Quote

“They say Stannis never smiles…I’ll give him a red smile. From ear to ear.” – Joffrey Baratheon

 

Trivia

The “Prince of Winterfell” refers to both Theon Grejoy, who has taken over the castle, as well as Bran and Rickon, who are revealed to be alive to conclude the episode.

 

Character Deaths

-Borba

-Harka

-Stonesnake

 

MVP: Arya Stark

Robb following his heart and Tyrion acting enraged about Ros’ beating make them both options for MVP, but Arya takes it in “The Prince of Winterfell” for playing Jaqen H’ghar. Arya knows she has to escape Harrenhal, but Jaqen won’t help her out, at least not until she names him as the final person to kill: “Jaqen H’ghar.” After a plea from Jaqen, Arya unnames him in exchange for help escaping the huge castle. Masterfully played by the young Stark girl.

 

#ForTheThrone Moment: Stannis names Davos his Hand

As Stannis Baratheon was sailing for King’s Landing, we gained some insight on his thoughts about Robert Baratheon and Ned Stark while talking to Davos Seaworth. Without Stannis holding Storm’s End with just 500 men and very limited supplies during Robert’s Rebellion, his brother might not have won the war and taken the Iron Throne. Because King Robert died, Stannis was steadfast in his belief that the Iron Throne belonged to him by right. His next step was naming Davos his Hand to help him keep it if the attack is successful.

 

Inside The Episode