Game of Thrones Season 5 Episode 4 Review: The Sons of the Harpy
Henry A. Otero
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We finally met the Sand Snakes on Game of Thrones Season 5 Episode 4 and they're vicious! Gorgeous sure, but deadly as all hell.
Cersei made some big moves she will probably live to regret and Tommen found himself caught between his mother and new wife. The young king learned a hard lesson this week.
Elsewhere, Jaime and Bronn arrived in Dorne. While Tyrion realized he's headed to Dany anyway, despite being kidnapped.
The moments between Jorah Mormont and Tyrion this week were priceless. From the way he manhandled our favorite Lannister, to Tyrion guessing who his captor was and laughing when he learned their destination. I can't help feel these first four episodes are simply setup for Tyrion and Daenerys' big meeting. We've been waiting years for it, what's a few more hours right?
Bronn drilling Jaime about the most obvious facts felt like exposition catch up. Still, it was important to hear Jaime's thoughts on Tyrion and what he had done. Do you think Jaime would truly split his brother in half? Despite everything, I'm not sure he would be able to bring himself to kill Tyrion.
Meanwhile, the other scheming Lannister was making the small council even smaller. Her influence is growing stronger, but will she be able to manipulate the High Sparrow after arming him?
Cersei: In the days before the Targaryens, the Faith Militant dispensed the justice of the seven.
High Sparrow: Well, the Faith Militant was disarmed more than two centuries ago.
Cersei: If I explained their holy purpose to my son, the king, I have no doubt he will sign a decree arming the believers you felt worthy.
High Sparrow: An army that defends the bodies and souls of the common people?
Cersei: An army in service to the Gods themselves. And to you, of course, as the chosen representative of the seven.
That was a bold move by a desperate woman. I can't imagine things are going to play out as Cersei imagined, though. The Faith Militant are clearly religious fanatics that will ultimately abuse their power. Cersei better watch her back around cousin Lancel, as well.
Margaery knew right away what was going on. I felt terrible for poor, clueless Tommen when she confronted him about Ser Loras. "Aren't you and mother getting along?" the kid asked so innocently. I think I sighed out loud just like Margaery did. Tommen is in over his head, and I doubt he'll survive the next few episodes.
Cersei's smooth though, she confused her son easily. Tommen thought he'd walk in to chat with the High Sparrow without incident. He's the king after all, right? The confrontation between the Faith Militant and his soldiers was eye opening for the young king. The crowd calling him an abomination was as well. I think some of his naiveté started lifting this week.
At Castle Black, Melisandre attempted to seduce Jon with her sorceress ways. I was surprised he managed to resist her.
Melisandre: Winterfell was your home once. Don't you want to chase the rats out of it?
Jon: Castle Black is my home now. The Night's Watch take no part in the wars of the seven kingdoms.
How creepy was it to hear Melisandre say, "You know nothing Jon Snow"? That moment gave me goosebumps.
I also loved the conversation between Shireen and Stannis. I think that was probably the first time I truly sympathized with the man. He's many things (and not one of my favorites) but Stannis is a good father to her. When it comes to Shireen, there's no question he's a decent man; unlike someone like Littlefinger.
Speaking of Lord Baelish, it was fascinating to learn about Rhaegar Targaryen. Funny how Ser Barristan's Rhaegar tale painted a different picture. Hearing Littlefinger predict what was coming was really impressive.
Littlefinger: Stannis Baratheon garrisions at Castle Black. He'll march south to King's Landing before the winter snows block his way. But first, he has to take Winterfell.
Sansa: You don't know that.
Littlefinger: I do. Once he liberates these lands from the Boltons, he'll rally your father's bannermen to his cause. With the north behind him, Stannis can finally take the Iron Throne.
Sansa: You think he'll defeat the Boltons?
Littlefinger: He has a larger army. He's the finest military commander in Westeros. A betting man, would put his money on Stannis. As it happens, I am a betting man.
Isn't is brilliant the way Littlefinger is always several steps ahead? He's without a doubt, one of the best players in this game. In a way, I'm glad Sansa is learning from him.
It wasn't surprising Jaime and Bronn had a run in with Dornish soldiers. The second I heard Bronn mention the ship's captain, I knew someone would get their hands on the guy. He went out pretty nastily didn't he?
Meeting the Sand Snakes was one of my favorite moments this week. The two youngest, Nym and Tyene, are daughters of Ellaria Sand. Obara, the oldest seems like the most dangerous. Mainly from the story she told and the way she killed the captain. In the books, Oberyn had eight illegitimate daughters. I wonder if we'll see any of the others? They're ready for war, things are going to get interesting soon.
The Sons of the Harpy made their move in the final moments of the installment. Will reopening the fighting pits really resolve the conflict? Did Ser Barristan and Grey Worm survive the attack? It's going to be a long week waiting to find out.
What did you think of "The Sons of the Harpy"? Did you feel bad for Tommen? Is Cersei playing with fire? What did you think of the exchange between Jorah and Tyrion? You're up guys, sound off in the comments below.
NOTE: Game of Thrones Season 5 Episode 5 is titled “Kill the Boy” and airs on Sunday, May 10.
