Who Won Game Of Thrones? The Ending Explained

Hey guys! Let's dive into the Game of Thrones finale and unpack who ultimately "won" the game. It's a question that sparked massive debate, controversy, and countless memes. So, buckle up, because we're about to revisit Westeros and make sense of it all.

Bran the Broken: The Unexpected Ruler

When you think about Game of Thrones, power struggles, epic battles, and cunning strategies probably come to mind. But the person who ended up on the Iron Throne… well, technically, there wasn't an Iron Throne anymore, thanks to Drogon's fiery outburst. Instead, Bran Stark, also known as the Three-Eyed Raven, became the ruler of the Six Kingdoms (the North seceded, remember?). This outcome was quite a surprise for many viewers, who had envisioned characters like Daenerys Targaryen, Jon Snow, or even Cersei Lannister ultimately claiming the throne. Bran's ascent was more about his unique ability to access the past, present, and potential futures, making him an ideal, albeit unconventional, choice for leadership.

But why Bran? The reasoning behind this decision, according to the characters in the show, was that Bran's wisdom and detachment from personal ambition made him the most suitable candidate to lead Westeros into a new era. As the Three-Eyed Raven, Bran possessed a vast understanding of history and the intricate web of events that shaped the realm. He was no longer driven by personal desires or the pursuit of power, but rather by a desire to safeguard the future of Westeros. This perspective, they argued, would enable him to make impartial decisions and guide the kingdom towards prosperity and stability. Additionally, Bran's physical limitations made him less susceptible to the temptations and corrupting influences that often plagued those who sought power. He was a ruler who would rely on his council and the wisdom of others to govern effectively.

However, this decision was met with mixed reactions from fans. Some argued that Bran's detached and emotionless demeanor made him an uninspiring leader, lacking the charisma and vision needed to unite the realm. Others felt that his selection was a cop-out, undermining the themes of ambition, sacrifice, and the pursuit of power that had defined the series. Despite the controversy, Bran's coronation marked a significant turning point in the history of Westeros, ushering in an era of peace and stability under the guidance of an unconventional but ultimately well-intentioned ruler. While Bran may not have been the most popular choice, his selection reflected a shift away from the traditional power structures and towards a more enlightened and thoughtful approach to governance.

The Fate of Key Players

Let's break down what happened to some of the other major characters:

• Jon Snow: In a twist that left many heartbroken, Jon was exiled back to the Night's Watch for killing Daenerys. He ended up going beyond the Wall with the Wildlings, seemingly finding some semblance of peace.
• Daenerys Targaryen: The Mother of Dragons met her end at the hand of Jon Snow after her descent into madness and the destruction of King's Landing. Her reign, which promised liberation, turned into tyranny in the eyes of many.
• Tyrion Lannister: Tyrion survived and became Hand to King Bran, using his wit and experience to help guide the new ruler.
• Sansa Stark: Sansa, ever the independent spirit, became the Queen in the North, finally achieving her long-held desire for the North to be its own kingdom.
• Arya Stark: Arya, never one for a settled life, set sail westward to explore uncharted territories.

Was There a True Winner?

The ending of Game of Thrones wasn't about a single victor sitting on a throne. It was more nuanced than that. The finale explored the idea that true leadership isn't necessarily about power and conquest, but about wisdom, stability, and understanding. Bran's ascension represented a shift away from the traditional power struggles that had defined Westeros for so long.

However, it’s hard to ignore the mixed reactions to the ending. Many viewers felt that the character arcs were rushed or unearned. Daenerys's sudden descent into madness, for example, was a point of contention. Some argue that the showrunners sacrificed character development for the sake of a shocking conclusion. Others felt that the ending was too neat and tidy, failing to capture the gritty realism that had made the earlier seasons so compelling. Despite these criticisms, the ending of Game of Thrones remains a topic of discussion and debate, with fans continuing to analyze and interpret the events that unfolded in the final episodes.

Ultimately, whether you view Bran as a deserving ruler or a disappointing choice, the ending of Game of Thrones sparked a conversation about the nature of power, leadership, and the complexities of human ambition. It challenged viewers to consider what it truly means to "win" in a world where the stakes are life and death.

The Council: A New Form of Governance

One of the more interesting aspects of the ending was the establishment of a small council to advise King Bran. This council consisted of characters like Tyrion Lannister, Bronn, Brienne of Tarth, and Davos Seaworth. Each member brought unique skills and perspectives to the table, representing different regions and interests within the realm. This new form of governance signaled a departure from the absolute power wielded by previous monarchs, suggesting a more collaborative and representative approach to ruling.

Tyrion, as Hand to the King, played a crucial role in shaping the policies and decisions of the new regime. His experience as a political strategist and his understanding of the complexities of human nature made him an invaluable asset to Bran. Bronn, the newly appointed Master of Coin, brought his pragmatic and resourceful approach to managing the kingdom's finances. Brienne, as Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, embodied honor and integrity, ensuring the safety and security of the realm. And Davos, with his common sense and unwavering loyalty, served as a voice of reason and moderation within the council.

The composition of the small council reflected a desire to create a more inclusive and representative government, one that would be responsive to the needs of the people and accountable for its actions. It was a step towards a more just and equitable society, where power was shared and decisions were made in the best interests of all. However, the success of this new form of governance would depend on the ability of the council members to work together effectively, putting aside their personal differences and focusing on the common good. It remained to be seen whether this experiment in democracy would ultimately succeed in bringing lasting peace and prosperity to Westeros.

Lasting Impact and Legacy

Regardless of how you feel about the specifics, Game of Thrones left an undeniable mark on television history. Its complex characters, intricate plotlines, and stunning visuals raised the bar for fantasy storytelling. The show sparked countless discussions about morality, power, and the human condition. Even years after its conclusion, Game of Thrones continues to be a cultural touchstone, influencing everything from other television shows to political discourse.

One of the most significant impacts of Game of Thrones was its ability to create a shared viewing experience on a global scale. Millions of people around the world tuned in each week to watch the latest episode, eagerly anticipating the twists and turns that would unfold. The show spawned countless fan theories, discussions, and debates, creating a vibrant online community that extended far beyond the television screen.

Moreover, Game of Thrones challenged traditional notions of heroism and villainy, presenting characters who were complex and morally ambiguous. It explored the grey areas of human nature, forcing viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about themselves and the world around them. The show's willingness to kill off major characters, regardless of their popularity, kept audiences on the edge of their seats and subverted expectations at every turn.

In addition to its cultural impact, Game of Thrones also had a significant economic impact, boosting tourism in the countries where it was filmed and creating countless jobs in the entertainment industry. The show's success demonstrated the potential for high-quality television to reach a global audience and generate significant revenue.

In conclusion, while the ending of Game of Thrones may have been controversial, its lasting impact and legacy are undeniable. The show redefined the landscape of television, raising the bar for storytelling and captivating audiences around the world. Whether you loved it or hated it, Game of Thrones will forever be remembered as a cultural phenomenon that changed the way we watch and think about television.

So, who won Game of Thrones? Maybe there wasn't a single winner. Maybe the real victory was the shift towards a more thoughtful and collaborative form of governance. Or maybe, just maybe, the journey was more important than the destination. What do you guys think?