Game of Thrones is a popular television series that is loved by millions of people around the world. The show has captivated audiences with its intricate storylines, complex characters, and stunning visuals. One of the most fascinating aspects of the show is its world-building, specifically the map of Westeros and the different houses that inhabit it. In this article, we will explore the history of Westeros and the houses that make it up.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Introduction
Game of Thrones is a popular television series that is loved by millions of people around the world. The show has captivated audiences with its intricate storylines, complex characters, and stunning visuals. One of the most fascinating aspects of the show is its world-building, specifically the map of Westeros and the different houses that inhabit it. In this article, we will explore the history of Westeros and the houses that make it up.
The History of Westeros
Westeros is a continent located in the world of Game of Thrones. It is a land of varying climates and landscapes, from the frozen north to the arid deserts of Dorne. The history of Westeros is long and complex, with many wars, alliances, and betrayals shaping the continent over the centuries.
One of the most significant events in Westerosi history was the Targaryen conquest. The Targaryens were a powerful family from the eastern continent of Essos who rode dragons into battle. They conquered Westeros and ruled it for nearly three hundred years before their dynasty was overthrown in a rebellion.
The Houses of Westeros
Westeros is divided into several regions, each ruled by a different house. There are eight major houses in Westeros, each with their own unique history, traits, and customs. These houses are the Starks, Lannisters, Baratheons, Tyrells, Martells, Tullys, Arryns, and Greyjoys.
The Starks
The Starks are the rulers of the North, a cold and harsh region of Westeros. They are known for their honor, loyalty, and fierce devotion to family. The Stark motto is "Winter is Coming," a reminder of the harsh winters that plague their homeland.
Q: Who is the head of House Stark?
A: The head of House Stark is currently Sansa Stark.
The Lannisters
The Lannisters are the wealthiest and most powerful family in Westeros. They rule over the Westerlands, a region known for its gold mines. The Lannisters are known for their cunning, ambition, and willingness to do whatever it takes to maintain their power.
Q: What is the Lannister motto?
A: The Lannister motto is "A Lannister Always Pays His Debts."
The Baratheons
The Baratheons are the rulers of the Stormlands, a region known for its fierce storms and rugged coastline. They are known for their strength, courage, and stubbornness. The Baratheon dynasty was founded by Robert Baratheon, who overthrew the Targaryen dynasty in a rebellion.
Q: Who is the current head of House Baratheon?
A: There is no current head of House Baratheon, as all of Robert Baratheon's legitimate heirs are dead.
The Tyrells
The Tyrells are the rulers of the Reach, a fertile region known for its agriculture. They are known for their wealth, cunning, and political savvy. The Tyrells are one of the most powerful families in Westeros, with many alliances and enemies.
Q: What is the Tyrell motto?
A: The Tyrell motto is "Growing Strong."
The Martells
The Martells are the rulers of Dorne, a hot and arid region known for its independence and resilience. They are known for their pride, passion, and fierce loyalty to their family. The Martells are one of the few houses in Westeros that follow a matrilineal succession, meaning that women can inherit their titles and lands.
Q: Who is the current head of House Martell?
A: The current head of House Martell is Doran Martell.
The Tullys
The Tullys are the rulers of the Riverlands, a region known for its rivers and fertile plains. They are known for their honor, chivalry, and loyalty to their family. The Tullys are one of the lesser-known houses in Westeros, but they have played important roles in the history of the continent.
Q: Who is the current head of House Tully?
A: The current head of House Tully is Edmure Tully.
The Arryns
The Arryns are the rulers of the Vale, a mountainous region known for its isolation and beauty. They are known for their honor, pride, and fierce loyalty to their family. The Arryns are one of the oldest houses in Westeros, with a history that stretches back thousands of years.
Q: What is the Arryn motto?
A: The Arryn motto is "As High As Honor."
The Greyjoys
The Greyjoys are the rulers of the Iron Islands, a harsh and unforgiving region known for its seafaring ways. They are known for their strength, independence, and willingness to raid and pillage their enemies. The Greyjoys are one of the most unique houses in Westeros, with a culture and religion that is different from the rest of the continent.
Q: What is the Greyjoy motto?
A: The Greyjoy motto is "We Do Not Sow."
Conclusion
The world of Game of Thrones is vast and complex, with many different regions, cultures, and customs. The map of Westeros and the houses that inhabit it are an integral part of this world-building, providing a rich history and context for the characters and storylines. Whether you're a fan of the show or the books, understanding the houses of Westeros is essential to fully appreciating the world of Game of Thrones.
