Did Game of Thrones end how George RR Martin wanted? This question has been a topic of much debate among fans of the beloved series. As the final season of the television adaptation came to a close, many were left questioning whether the ending lived up to the expectations set by the author of the original novels. In this article, we will explore the differences between the book and the show, and discuss the reasons behind the discrepancies in the ending.
The first and most significant difference between the book and the show’s ending is the fate of Jon Snow. In George RR Martin’s novels, Jon Snow is revealed to be the son of Lyanna Stark and Rhaegar Targaryen, making him the true heir to the Iron Throne. However, in the television adaptation, Jon Snow is crowned king but is then killed off-screen, leaving the throne empty and the series open-ended. This change was met with mixed reactions from fans, with some praising the show’s bold decision and others feeling that it was a betrayal of the source material.
Another point of contention is the handling of Daenerys Targaryen’s character. In the books, Daenerys is portrayed as a complex and multi-dimensional character, whose actions are driven by a desire to bring peace and stability to the Seven Kingdoms. In the show, her character is often criticized for her increasingly ruthless and erratic behavior, culminating in her infamous “burning” of King’s Landing. While some fans believe that this portrayal was necessary to reflect the darker tone of the show, others argue that it deviated too far from the character as presented in the books.
One of the most controversial aspects of the show’s ending is the lack of closure for several key characters. In the books, many characters have their fates resolved, providing a sense of closure for readers. However, in the show, several characters, including Arya Stark and Sansa Stark, are left with unresolved storylines, leaving fans feeling unsatisfied. This has led to speculation that the showrunners were rushed to complete the final season, resulting in a less cohesive ending.
Despite these discrepancies, George RR Martin has expressed that he was satisfied with the television adaptation’s ending. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Martin stated, “I thought the ending was good. I thought it was a good ending for the show. I thought it was a good ending for the characters. I’m not saying it’s the ending I would have written, but I thought it was a good ending for the show.” While this may come as a relief to some fans, it does little to quell the debate over whether the show’s ending was true to Martin’s vision.
In conclusion, the question of whether Game of Thrones ended how George RR Martin wanted is a complex one. While the show’s ending may not have been a perfect adaptation of the books, it is clear that the showrunners made efforts to stay true to the spirit of Martin’s original work. Ultimately, the success of any adaptation lies in how it resonates with its audience, and for many fans, the ending of Game of Thrones will always be a source of debate and discussion.
