Episode 4 of House of the Dragon has aired, and much like the previous episodes, quality is its specialty.  Like Episode 3, new dynamics and ideas are presented while echoing the past (or, future technically).  There are shocking developments, wonderful acting, and commitment to adult themes, ideas, and imagery.  All of this contributes to making House of the Dragon one of the best shows this year.  If Episode 3 showed the true potential of this show, Episode 4 is the reassurance of that potential.

Spoilers Ahead

Blood, Bones, Bells, and Bare Bodies

Daemon returns to King’s Landing, welcomed as a hero for his victory over the Crab Feeder.  Upon his return, the Kingdom seems united, although tensions are high.  Viserys’ trust in his council is degrading, the relationship between Alicent and Rhaenyra is falling apart, and the people still haven’t accepted Rhaenyra as the heir presumptive.  In such a complex environment, a wild card is the last thing needed.  Daemon is that wild card.

Courtesy of HBO

Sensing Rhaenyra’s frustration with her situation, Daemon attempts to allow her to have some control.  Sneaking her out of the castle, Rhaenyra sees the people’s thoughts of her becoming queen.  Up to this point, Rhaenyra has felt trapped in her role as a political tool.  After a series of poor proposals, some of which end in bloodshed, she feels powerless.  Daemon, seeks to give her back some of that power and autonomy.  Of course,  he seems to have more motives than just that.

Certainly there were hints that their dynamic went deeper, and House of the Dragon calls back to Game of Thrones in how deep it goes.  The taboo nature of the relationship Daemon and Rhaenyra have of course is disturbing.  At the same time, it’s hard not to not find the deeper bond these two have captivating.  Marriage and sex are a heavy theme within this episode, and the ways it’s exploration is multifaceted and worth analysis.  Notably, the contrasting reactions of Alicent and Rhaenyra in their particular situations is a highlight.

Inversions and Subversion

Continuing with the parallels to Game of Thrones, House of the Dragon calls upon elements of the previous show to hint at and inform what happens in its own story.  The use of the bells comes back this episode, and much like the first time used in the show, it foreshadows dark times to come.  All of the moments where the bells toll signify moments which will inevitably contribute to Rhaenyra’s conquest, and Viserys’ downfall.

Courtesy of HBO

An inversion is present with the role of the Hand of the King.  In Game of Thrones, Robert trusted Ned as his next hand as he believed in his virtue.  It’s a role he’s perfect for; he is selfless, has the best interest of the realm, and is honorable.  Otto von Hightower does seem to have a great concern for the well-being of the realm. Regardless, his means of addressing the problems of the realm are less than honorable and rooted in selfish desire.

Given the knowledge of what’s to come, his warning of a coming conflict is strangely tragic.  One on hand, his actions are despicable, yet it’s true that Rhaenyra’s ascension would cause conflict.  It’s hard to tell if things would play out differently had no resistance been put up by him to allow for Rhaenyra’s reign.

Final Thoughts

Episode 4 continues the fiery hot streak House of the Dragon is on.  Most other shows would take some time to pick up steam, this show started strong, and continues to grow stronger.

Check out the reviews of previous episodes below.

Heirs of the Dragon – Episode 1.

The Rogue Prince – Episode 2.

Second of His Name – Episode 3.