Game Of Thrones S03E04: Watch & Recap
What's up, GoT fans! Today, we're diving deep into one of the most pivotal episodes of Season 3, "And Now His Watch Is Ended." This episode dropped on April 14, 2013, and boy, did it deliver the shockwaves. If you're still reeling from the events, or just want a refresher on why this episode is legendary, you've come to the right place. We're going to break down all the major moments, the character arcs, and why this episode truly lives up to its dramatic title. So grab your wine, settle in, and let's get into it!
The Red Wedding Aftermath and Daenerys's Ascent
Okay, guys, let's talk about the elephant in the room, or rather, the dragon in the room. While "And Now His Watch Is Ended" isn't the Red Wedding episode (that's still to come, brace yourselves!), it certainly lays the groundwork for even more devastating events. But for now, the real star of this episode is Daenerys Targaryen. She's been building her army, gathering her Unsullied, and now, she's making her move. This episode sees her bold negotiation with the masters of Astapor. It’s such a powerful moment because we see Daenerys transforming from a young, somewhat naive girl into a formidable queen. She uses her intelligence, her dragons, and her sheer force of will to negotiate the release of the Unsullied army. She walks into a situation where she's outnumbered, outgunned, and facing men who see her as nothing more than a foreign girl with some pets. But Dany, our Khaleesi, doesn't back down. She commands Drogon to incinerate Kraznys mo Nakloz, the slaver who's been mocking her the entire time. This act of defiance and power is absolutely breathtaking. It’s not just about freeing the Unsullied; it's about asserting her authority and showing the world that she will take back Westeros. The visual of the dragon fire, the fear in the masters' eyes, and the unwavering loyalty of the newly freed Unsullied – it's pure cinematic gold. And let's not forget the iconic line, "Dracarys." She doesn't just free slaves; she destroys the system that enslaved them. This is Daenerys at her most powerful, her most ruthless, and her most destined. It's a huge turning point for her character and a major win for Team Targaryen. You can just feel the momentum building, and it’s exhilarating to watch.
The Jon Snow Dilemma and the Wildlings
Now, let's shift gears a bit and head north of the Wall. Jon Snow is still undercover with the wildlings, and things are getting… complicated. He's trying his best to maintain his cover, but his true loyalties are constantly being tested. He’s forming bonds with some of the wildlings, particularly Ygritte, and the tension between his duty to the Night's Watch and his growing feelings is palpable. This episode really delves into the moral gray areas that Jon is navigating. He's witnessing the wildlings' way of life, their struggles, and their distrust of the southerners. He’s forced to participate in raids and witness acts that go against everything he’s been taught. The scene where he’s with Tormund Giantsbane and the other wildlings, preparing to attack a village, is incredibly tense. He knows what’s coming for those villagers, and he’s part of it. The internal conflict is written all over his face. We see him questioning his mission, questioning the Night's Watch, and questioning everything he thought he knew. Ygritte, of course, is a huge part of this. Their relationship is developing, and it’s fascinating to see Jon caught between his sworn vows and his heart. The whole "you know nothing, Jon Snow" trope is so fitting here because he truly doesn't know the complexities of the world outside the Wall, and he's learning them the hard way. This episode highlights the humanity of the wildlings, something often overlooked by those in the South, and it forces Jon to see them as more than just savage barbarians. His struggle to reconcile his identity as a Stark and a brother of the Night's Watch with his experiences among the wildlings is at the core of his storyline here. It’s a masterclass in character development, showing the erosion of his black-and-white worldview.
The Brotherhood Without Banners and Arya's Journey
Meanwhile, back in the Riverlands, Arya Stark is still traveling with the Brotherhood Without Banners. This group, led by Beric Dondarrion, is fighting against the Lannisters, and Arya sees them as her ticket to revenge. However, things take a dark turn when the Hound (Sandor Clegane) is captured by the Brotherhood. Arya is furious, as she believes the Hound was responsible for her father’s death (incorrectly, but she's young and vengeful). This leads to a pivotal moment where Beric Dondarrion challenges the Hound to a trial by combat. The Hound, surprisingly, wins, but instead of killing him, Beric is resurrected by his lord, R'hllor, the Lord of Light, thanks to Thoros of Myr. This resurrection is a huge deal for the show's mythology. It introduces the concept of resurrection and the power of the Red God in a very visceral way. For Arya, it’s a moment of confusion and disillusionment. She wanted justice, and she saw an opportunity for it, but the outcome isn't what she expected. The Hound, who she hates, is spared, and this seemingly magical event occurs. It further complicates her understanding of the world and the nature of justice. Her journey is all about loss and survival, and this episode throws another curveball at her. She's constantly having to adapt and rethink her strategies, and her interactions with the Brotherhood, especially with Beric and Thoros, show her a different facet of the war – one driven by faith and a sense of righteous purpose, even if it’s a bloody one. It’s a testament to her resilience that she continues to push forward despite these emotional and ideological challenges.
Other Notable Moments and Character Developments
Beyond the major plotlines, "And Now His Watch Is Ended" offers some other significant character moments. Tyrion Lannister is dealing with the aftermath of his father Tywin's appointment as Hand of the King. He’s given the role of Master of Coin, a position he seems to relish, but it also puts him in a precarious position within his own family. Tywin, as always, is playing the long game, and Tyrion is caught in the middle of his father's machinations. We see the continued tension between Tyrion and his father, with Tywin subtly undermining him while also relying on his intellect. It's a complex dynamic that adds layers to both characters. Sansa Stark, meanwhile, is still a pawn in the game, married to Tyrion but clearly not happy. Her situation highlights the political marriages and the lack of agency for women in Westeros. While she’s not a central focus of this episode, her plight serves as a constant reminder of the harsh realities of noble life. Jaime Lannister is still traveling with Brienne of Tarth, and their journey is marked by their developing, albeit reluctant, respect for each other. Jaime is slowly shedding his arrogant facade and revealing a more complex, vulnerable side. This episode might not have the explosive, jaw-dropping moments of some others, but it’s crucial for setting up the major arcs for the rest of the season. It’s about consolidation of power, shifting alliances, and the slow burn of destiny. Each character is moving towards their inevitable confrontations, and the seeds sown here will bear much fruit (and tears) later on.
Final Thoughts on "And Now His Watch Is Ended"
So, there you have it, guys. "And Now His Watch Is Ended" is a fantastic episode that truly showcases the strengths of Game of Thrones. It's got everything: epic dragon moments, intense character struggles, moral dilemmas, and foreshadowing of darker times ahead. Daenerys's rise to power is a defining moment, Jon's internal conflict is compelling, and Arya's journey continues to be a tragic yet fascinating one. This episode isn't just about ending one watch; it's about the beginning of new, powerful destinies. It reminds us why we love this show – the complex characters, the unpredictable plots, and the sheer epic scale of it all. What were your favorite moments from this episode? Let me know in the comments below! Until next time, keep your swords sharp and your dragons fed!
