Status
Genres
Publication
Description
The Ultimate Game of Thrones and Philosophy treats fans to dozens of new essays by experts who examine philosophical questions raised by theGame of Thrones story. This ultimate analysis provides the most comprehensive discussion to date and engages theGame of Thrones universe through the end of Season Six of the HBO series. Ned Stark, Tyrion Lannister, Jon Snow, Joffrey, Cersei, Brienne, Arya, Stannis, and many other characters are used to apply the traditional philosophical questions that everyone faces. How should political leaders be chosen in Westeros and beyond? Is power merely an illusion? Is it immoral to enjoy overly violent and sexual stories likeGame of Thrones? How should morally ambiguous individuals such as Jamie Lannister: The Kingslayer and Savior of King's Landing be evaluated? Can anyone be trusted in a society like Westeros? What rules should govern sexual relationships in a world of love, incest, rape, and arranged marriage? How does disability shape identity for individuals like Tyrion, Bran, and others? How would one know whether there is a God in theGame of Thrones universe and what he is like?… (more)
User reviews
The Ultimate Game of Thrones and Philosophy is yet another offering in the wonderful pop culture and philosophy series. This one focuses on GRR Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire book series, and the HBO show Game of Thrones.
Some of my favourites include:
‘There is Only One God and His Name is Death’ looks at why the random, unexpected deaths of central characters tends to be rare in art, and how Martin has successfully pulled it off.
'Tyrion’s Humour’ discusses how humour can be used as a criticism of social injustice, and how Tyrion’s brand of humour reflects not malice, but compassion abraded by cynicism. He’s also reflecting the archetype of the Fool, who can get away with saying and doing things others can't. That doesn't *always* mean he'll get away with it.
'Guilty of Being a Dwarf’ compares Tyrion's life journey to Sartre's views on self, and how we choose to see ourselves. (Yes, I am a huge Tyrion fan)
'Varys’ Riddle’ talks about concepts of power, and where power is really derived from. Perhaps something those of us in the US need to be thinking about right now, as a country.
I love these books! They focus and sharpen philosophical concepts, revealing how they are present underlying our entertainment, and illustrating their relevance in today's society. This particular one had more, yet shorter essays. All were really good.
GRR Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire, and The Ultimate Game of Thrones and Philosophy both pack a wallop right now, as we watch the corrupt struggle for power right now, and wars rage on helpless civilians. Stories like these, with various people jockeying for power on a global stage underscore the dangers of such thinking, and ways to work with and against it.
🎻🎻🎻🎻🎻 Highly recommended for any lover of philosophy, and for fans of the Song of Ice and Fire book series, or the HBO Game of Thrones series.