Game of Thrones has another shocker of an episode in store. If you have not watched this week’s episode of Game of Thrones, The Lion and the Rose, I highly recommend watching it before reading any further as there are huge spoilers below! After you’ve watched it though, come back and check out our episode guide for The Lion and the Rose and give us your theories as to what you think is the reason is and who the perpetrator is of the (not-so) dastardly deed in this week’s episode of Game of Thrones!
Don’t need the Game of Thrones episode recap for The Lion and the Rose? Click here to jump directly to Josh’s thoughts on the episode!
To see Violet’s thoughts on this week’s Game of Thrones episode, The Lion and the Rose, click here to get directly there!
The Super Quick Episode Summary of The Lion and the Rose episode of Game of Thrones
- Ramsay and Roose Bolton plan to hunt down Bran to eliminate the Stark family–hoping to use Jon Snow
- Bran has another vision, and seems to learn some valuable information
- Tyrion gets Jaime some left-handed sword training–secretly so that Jaime can keep his rep intact.
- To save Shae, Tyrion sends her away on a boat after a huge argument.
- Stannis and Melisandre are roasting heretics. Davos tries to talk sense into Stannis
- Joffrey and Margaery marry, and shortly thereafter Joffrey dies after being a bit of a jerk. Tyrion is immediately accused
- As usual for Game of Thrones, there is a lot more going on than what is on the surface between various characters.
So that was about as concise as I could get about the episode. Time to get into the nitty-gritty of this week’s Game of Thrones episode:
The Super Long Recap of Game of Thrones, The Lion and the Rose
Bolton’s Conquest of the North
Our “favorite” demented torturer, Ramsay Snow opens this episode of Game of Thrones hunts down a girl with Theon in tow, who is not only physically “neutered” but mentally has been as well. A new character, a female, seems to be as messed up as Ramsay, and just as bloodthirsty and demented, is also on the hunt, and has hunting dogs eat her. Theon looks on helpless, shaking.
Later in this episode of Game of Thrones, Roose Bolton, Ramsay’s father, returns to Harrenhal, where Ramsay resides, and is interested in seeing Theon Greyjoy for himself. Roose meets Theon, and after learning what Ramsay has done, is furious with Ramsay. He reveals his plan of hopes to trade Theon for Moat Cailin, a part of the North, now that Tywin has given him the North. I guess when you aren’t around to raise your son, he turns into a psychotic flayer, and ruins these opportunities. What a disappointment.
Not letting Roose’s fury get him down, Ramsay decides it is time to give Roose some good news. Theon is ordered to give Ramsay a close shave. The scene is tense, as Theon seems to consider killing Ramsay after Theon is told about Robb’s death. This surely is intentional, as Ramsay is able to prove to father how “domesticated” Theon Greyjoy has become now. Ramsay questions Theon about the location of Bran, to which Theon says he doesn’t know. But, we learn that Roose was still under the assumption that Theon has killed them. Now he knows that Bran and his brother are still alive.
Ramsay tells his father that Bran is a threat to his Northern rule. Roose seems to agree with his bastard son’s assessment, and decides it is time to find Bran. They plan to begin with their only lead, Jon Snow at Castle Black, and make preparations to find the half Stark. Meanwhile, Ramsay is told to ride to Moat Cailin, a land in the North, and take it, which Roose incentivizes, telling Ramsay that his success at Moat Cailin will put Ramsay back in his good graces.
Bran’s Next Vision
Speaking of Bran, the episode shifts to the North, as we are put into the perspective of an animal, that hunts down a deer and eats it. Bran wakes up to hearing Hodor saying the only thing he can–” Hodor”. Bran is upset that he is woken, but Jojen warns that Bran staying in his wolf for too long can be dangerous, and he could lose his humanity and memories.
Suddenly Bran becomes intrigued by a tree, which has a face on it. Hodor takes Bran to the tree, Bran touches it and is immediately taken into a vision. The vision has various quick images, the three-eyed crow, his fall that paralyzed him, among a few other quick scenes. Upon it ending, Bran ominously says, “I know where to go”.
Jaime Goes Back to Sword-fighting School
Meanwhile, Game of Thrones shifts to Jaime and Tyrion having dinner in King’s Landing, and Jaime seems a little down about his dismemberment. Tyrion pries to find out why, and Jaime reveals he is depressed about being unable to fight any longer–or at least well enough to still be called Kingslayer. Tyrion has a plan though, and hires Bronn, Tyrion’s bodyguard, to provide some assistance in retraining Jaime left handed.
One important note about this scene that I thought of after finishing the episode: In these scene, Tyrion specifically points out what was in the cup that Jaime accidentally knocked over with his gold hand–wine. For those that have seen this episode, they know why this may or may not be significant at the end of the episode. It is hard to say if the wine is a coincidence, but in Game of Thrones, not much usually is. Another interesting point that Tyrion brought up this episode, is that he tells Jaime to learn to use other tools other than a sword to battle. This also makes me wonder what exactly this means other than the obvious.
So as Tyrion promised, Bronn takes Jaime to a remote area, and they begin Jaime’s training. Bronn comments on Jaime’s Valyrian sword, and makes him train with a sparring sword. Jaime isn’t happy, but we can see that Jaime is definitely not good left-handed so far.
Tyrion and Shae Part Ways
Meanwhile in King’s Landing, Tyrion meets with Varys, who warns Tyrion of Shae being in danger. Cersei had learned of Shae’s existence, and Varys warns Tyrion that Tywin is bound to find out sooner or later, which obviously spells doom for Shae. Tyrion asks for help, but, as usual for Varys, he has no intention of risking his own skin for Shae or Tyrion, fearing the repercussions of Tywin and Cersei. Varys instead tells Tyrion to convince Shae to leave.
Later, Shae sneaks in for some “quality” time with Tyrion. Tyrion isn’t having any of it though. Shae becomes upset when Tyrion begins telling her that he must remain faithful to his wife and that it would be best if Shae took a trip far away. Tyrion refuses to acknowledge that he is afraid of Tywin and Cersei, and insists that he wants to remain faithful to Sansa. Shae of course sees right through Tyrion’s lies and refuses to leave. Tyrion resorts to insults, calling her a whore, and that she is unfit to have his children. He then later in the episode, has Bronn escort Shae to the harbor for her trip far away.
Stannis Baratheon and Melisandre Take Care of some Heretics
Game of Thrones then shifts to focus on another Baratheon. Melisandre and Stannis decide it would be fun to burn some “heretics” at the stake, for believing in the “old gods”. Stannis’ wife also seems to be drinking Melisandre’s Kool-Aid as much as Stannis is, if not more. Davos, meanwhile, tries to reason with Stannis about their burning, but he doesn’t seems to be listening to reason. At dinner, Stannis’s wife expresses to Stannis and Melisandre that their daughter is a problem, that may need to be “fixed”. Stannis is not willing to have his daughter corrected the way his wife wants, so Melisandre offers to talk to her. What I found most interesting about this scene was Stannis’ appearance of indifference, or apathy. He doesn’t seem to have the conviction he did before. Perhaps Davos is getting to Stannis to some extent? In any rate, Melisandre and Stannis’ daughter talk, and Melisandre talks to her about the people burned at the stake, religion and how much “alike” they are.
The Purple Wedding
Love is in the air in Game of Thrones, particularly King’s Landing, as Joffrey is at his wedding shower, with Tywin, Cersei, Tyrion and Sansa. Various nobles in attendance offer him their wedding gifts. Joffrey seems unusually appreciative of the gifts at first, especially Tyrion’s. Tywin then presents his gift, the other Valyrian sword. In usual Joffrey manner, he immediately begins hacking his table with maniacally, and insults Ned Stark’s death yet again. I could not help but think, “Oh Joffrey, won’t you just die already?” during this scene, but to be fair, every episode of Game of Thrones with Joffrey in it, I think I have that thought. But, I think I might have thought this too soon this episode…
Finally, the climax of the episode begins, as Joffrey and Margaery’s wedding ceremony begins! The ceremony is done, without incident. Whew, I was worried for a second.
Before the ceremony, Tywin and Olenna (Margaery’s grandmother) have a conversation, discussing the cost of the wedding, and Tywin expresses his distaste for extravagant weddings, and how short marriages last. Olenna tells him to calm down, and reminds Tywin that she is paying for much of the wedding. She also references the ” Iron Bank” being in trouble, I think referencing the cost of the war, if I read into the conversation correctly.
As they walk, a man named Mace tries to interrupt, but Olenna brushes him off quickly. There is one more bit of intrigue in this scene Olenna tells Tywin that he will be thanking her again “before long”. So is this just a reference to the financial means that Olenna will provide to assist with the wars? Or perhaps it is because a certain death of a certain character might stop the wars altogether? Hmmm… In any case, Tywin and Olenna head for the wedding reception to, “celebrate young love”.
At his own wedding reception, Joffrey doesn’t seem entertained, nor particularly excited to be married. Olenna shows up, and has a quick conversation with Sansa. She says how sorry she is about Robb, and she makes a comment about how “horrid” it is to kill a man at a wedding, and how it gives men another reason to fear marriage. It would be horrid to kill a man at a wedding, but is Olenna bringing this up facetiously? Or seriously? She also tells her it would be good to visit Highgarden, which seems to brighten Sansa’s mood–temporarily at least. Also, given the end of the episode, is this where she will be heading in the not-so-distant future?
Anyway, back to the immature, power hungry, deserving-to-die Joffrey. He decides he is sick of the musicians at his wedding, and ushers them off with a tantrum and a tossing of coins, which they scurry to pick up and depart. He then has Margaery make an announcement, that their leftover food will be given to the poor. Joffrey is such a nice guy to his subjects!
Meanwhile, Jaime and Loras (Margaery’s brother set to marry Cersei) talk and Jaime lets Loras know that he will not marry Cersei. Brienne gives her blessings to Margaery and Joffrey, while Cersei pokes fun at her lack of curtsying, and Joffrey is intrigued by her murdering of Renly Baratheon (this is actually not true, as the mysterious monster of Melisandre actually did the killing). After departing, Cersei decides to have a more personal conversation with Brienne, accusing Brienne of loving Jaime. Brienne seems flabbergasted, basically admitting to it by remaining silent. Cersei also accuses her of disloyalty considering the number of people she has chosen to serve. I have a feeling this little spat may be fueled by jealously on Cersei’s part. There is trouble in incest paradise!
Cersei then subverts Pycell’s attempt to seduce a young girl (which he tries to deny). She then makes him toss the leftovers of the wedding, subverting Margaery’s wishes. Pycell protests, but Cersei insists. I am curious why Cersei was so intent on this happening. Is she just a bad person? Or is there some other reason? To tarnish Margaery’s name? I wasn’t really clear on the motives here other than being a cold-hearted…female dog.
Then, Tywin and Cersei then have a conversation with the Dornishman, Oberyn and his paramour, who through the subtext of their conversation, clearly are not going to get along well. Oberyn insults Tywin’s “poverty” and Cersei’s new demotion, while Tywin insults Oberyn’s lack of importance to matters and rich brother.
Back to the man of the hour, Joffrey has a generous surprise for his wedding guests. He has a reenactment of his wars performed–by little people. Joffrey then eyes Tyrion with an evil laugh, enjoying the clear insult to Tyrion’s stature. The crowd seems to enjoy the performance, but much of the wedding table is uncomfortable, including Sansa, Tyrion and even Margaery for obvious reasons. Then, for a dig at Sansa, the “head” of Ned Stark’s little person is removed in the battle, giving everyone a good laugh but Sansa, Tyrion and seemingly Margaery.
Joffrey then tries to push his other “reign challengers” to battle the little person version of Joffrey, namely Tyrion. Tyrion tries to respond with witty banter, which turns into Joffrey embarrassing Tyrion further. Pouring wine on Tyrion’s head, Joffrey then asks Tyrion to pour him more wine. He drops the cup, forcing Tyrion to pick it up. Joffrey then kicks it away, for Tyrion to fish out from beneath the table. Joffrey has a good time with it, but most of the “audience” shifts uncomfortably as the scene plays on.
Margaery tries to diffuse the situation, exclaiming that the wedding pie is ready. King Joffrey has the first piece, and decides to wash it down with some wine. This turns out to be a fatal move, as Joffrey begins to choke up, and eventually passes out. Before dying (FINALLY!), he points to Tyrion, who his holding his wine cup as dumbfounded as the rest of the crowded. Cersei demands that Tyrion is restrained, accusing him of the murder. Ser Dontos then appears beside Sansa, telling her to come before she is killed.
Josh’s Final Thoughts on Season 4 Episode 2 of Game of Thrones: The Lion and the Rose
So, that was a big episode. I provided most of my thoughts within the recap, but I wanted to part with some theories on the Joffrey murder.
Apparently George R.R. Martin is not a fan of weddings. I am glad he wasn’t attending my wedding. The episode doesn’t give us who is the murderer, although we have the weapon and location (did Game of Thrones just turn into the board game Clue?). “It was Olenna with the poison in the wedding reception!”
Kidding aside, I feel that Olenna is the obvious suspect in the murder of Joffrey. I would rule out Sansa or Tyrion pretty easily. It would be idiotic of Tyrion to be so blatant with his murdering, and Sansa didn’t have the means. Clearly this is a part of some bigger plot, as Ser Dontos’ rescue of Sansa is no accident, I bet. A collaboration between Olenna and Tywin came to mind as well, given the conversation about the costly war Joffrey waged, but I am not sure this is a strong enough motive. I considered Jaime Lannister as well, but I haven’t quite put the pieces together as to how that would be a strong, plausible situation either.
Violet’s Thoughts: Game of Thrones, Season 4 Episode 2: The Lion and the Rose
I know I said I was going to try not to do this… but I can’t help but compare the books to the show! This whole storyline with Theon and Ramsay Snow and Roose Bolton seems to come out of nowhere. If it is in the books, it’s further down the road, because I have only just barely started the fifth book, A Dance with Dragons, and they have no idea where Theon disappeared to after Winterfell. It’s possible that it comes up later on the fifth book, and that the show has been giving us Theon’s story in order to stay chronologically parallel to the rest of the stories. Or maybe it was mentioned and I somehow zoned out and missed it. I have to admit, I had a lot of trouble getting into the fourth book, A Feast for Crows, especially after the awesomeness of book 3, A Storm of Swords, so maybe I missed it somewhere in there?
We also got to see Bran this episode, who we didn’t see last episode. He’s looking quite a bit older than last season though.
Of course, the majority of this episode was focused on Joffrey’s pre-wedding, wedding, and post-wedding festivities, since most of the characters were in attendance. Having read the books, I knew Joffrey’s death was coming this episode, so I was glad that we got to see him be the jerk that he is all episode so that we could feel that much more triumphant when he died. I felt like last episode he didn’t really do anything for us to make him feel the hatred toward him that we normally do, but this episode made up for that.
Joffrey’s death is an example of something that makes me sort of regret having read ahead in the books. Since I already know who killed him, and how, I feel like I can’t fairly speculate about who his murderer is. I miss out on all the discussions of trying to figure it out. On the other hand, it is interesting hearing other people’s theories and seeing them squirm when I refuse to reveal whether they are on the right track or not.
One thing that came up this episode that surprised me was when Cersei called Brienne out on being in love with Jaime. At the point I’m at in the books, there hasn’t been any mention of Brienne being in love with Jaime, although you do get the idea that she could be, and you also get the inkling that Jaime might not realize himself that he has feelings for Brienne. But the books never come right out and say it, at least not yet. It’s something that’s very subtly hinted at, and something that the reader must infer. In fact, I think some readers might even miss it if they’re not paying close attention. I secretly root for Brienne and Jaime to find their way to each other, so I’m wondering how much the show is going to play up Brienne’s love for Jaime, and to what extent, if at all, Jaime is going to show signs of reciprocating those feelings.
Looking forward to the next episode and seeing the fallout of Joffrey’s murder!
Scenes from Game of Thrones, Season 4 Episode 3: Breaker of Chains
Here are scenes from the next Game of Thrones episode, titled Breaker of Chains:
I loved it! I have not read the book so was so surprised when Joffrey died! I think that Olenna Tyrell is the one who killed Joffrey. When she went over to Sansa and made the comment about how horrible it is for a man to die on his wedding day it made me think that she has a double meaning for the comment.
I had the feeling that Stannis’ wife wanted their daughter to burn..
All the clues were there as to who did it, as well as who else might have been in on it. I thought the episode was pretty great. They made Joffrey look gross at the end there.
Yeah I agree, all the clues were there, but you never know with a show, it could have just been there to throw you off.
I think it was Olenna. She’d seem like the type who wouldn’t mind getting her hands dirty if she needed to.
What a fantastic episode. I think the culprit is Littlefinger. It always tends to be him for some reason.
As in every episode, a lot going on. Wouldn’t surprise me that Tyrion really killed Joffrey.
I’ve been waiting to see this happen in the show for awhile. The person that did this was kinda already revealed in the latest episode, but it’s no surprise.