Mythical Creatures in Game of Thrones: Sea Dragons, Mermaids, and Sea Monsters

Introduction

In the tumultuous narrative of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series and its adaptation, Game of Thrones, the world of Westeros is rich with mythological creatures. This article delves into the presence (or absence) of sea monsters, sea dragons, and mermaids in the stories. We'll explore both the on-screen and off-screen lore, providing a comprehensive look at these legendary beings.

Sea Monsters: A Bookish Reality

In the books, the world of Game of Thrones is teeming with sea monsters, each with its unique place in the narrative.

1. Krakens: Described as giant squids, these creatures are formidable and often menacing. One of the most famous is the Kraken of Old Wyk, where the Grey King used the bones of Nagga to build his hall.

2. Leviathans: Enormous whales that are larger and more aggressive than their real-world counterparts. These monstrous whales are often mentioned in tales and legends, reflecting the awe and fear they instill in sailors.

3. Sea Dragons: Notably, the most iconic of these mythological creatures is Nagga, a Sea Dragon of Ironborn legend. The Grey King famously used her bones to build his hall. Today, the bones still remain as a testament to her existence. Other mentions include descriptions of sea dragons that either breathe fire (like Nagga) or water breath.

No Sea Monsters in the Show

While the books are replete with these incredible creatures, the TV show Game of Thrones takes a different approach. Specifically, there are no sea monsters, sea dragons, or mermaids featured in the series. However, there are references to these creatures in certain plot elements and symbolism, which we will explore further below.

Legends and Lore: Book Evidence

In the narrative of the books, the sea is not just a vast, unknown expanse but a realm teeming with magical and dangerous creatures. Here are a few examples:

1. Sea Dragons: The sea dragon Nagga is an enigmatic figure, known for her fierce and legendary nature. The Grey King of Old Wyk used her bones to build his hall, and even today, the hall's remains can be found, with her ribs acting as pillars.

2. Sea Dragons (cont.): There are also references to two different types of sea dragons in the books. One breathed fire, while the other breathed water. This duality adds to the mystique and complexity of these creatures in the lore.

3. Krakens: Like their real-world inspirations, the books depict krakens as giant squid-like creatures, known for their immense size and power. The Grey King of Old Wyk is said to have used the bones of a kraken to build the Hall on Old Wyk.

4. Leviathans: Described as giant whales, these creatures inhabit the waters of Westeros with a presence that reflects both wonder and peril. The narratives often use these whales to add a sense of the fantastical and the unknown to the world of the Seven Kingdoms.

5. Merlings, Selkies, Squishers, and Thousand Islanders:

These various aquatic or gilled sentient beings are referenced in the books, representing a diverse and complex underwater world. While their existence is not confirmed, the description of these creatures adds a layer of intrigue to the story, creating a rich tapestry of life beneath the waves.

Conclusion

The world of Game of Thrones is a place where the legends of sea monsters, sea dragons, and mermaids live on, even if they are not always visually depicted in the show. The books provide a wealth of information and references, enriching the narrative with a sense of depth and mystery. Whether they breathe fire, water, or exist as magical beings, these creatures continue to captivate and inspire, making the world of Westeros all the more enchanting.