Was It a Mistake to Cut Doran and Arianne's Subplot from Game of Thrones?

The decision to cut Arianne Martell and Doran Martell's subplot from Game of Thrones has been a topic of debate among fans. Here are a few points to consider regarding this choice, followed by an analysis of what might have been gained if their subplots had been included.

Reasons for Cutting the Subplot

Pacing and Complexity:
Game of Thrones had a large ensemble cast and numerous intertwining storylines. Including Arianne and Doran's plots would have added complexity potentially slowing down the pacing of the series, making it harder for viewers to follow.

Focus on Main Characters:
The showrunners may have opted to focus on more central characters and their arcs such as Jon Snow, Daenerys Targaryen, and Tyrion Lannister, who were more integral to the overarching narrative of the series.

Narrative Streamlining:
The decision could also stem from a desire to streamline the story for a television format where time is limited and viewers may not have the patience for extensive subplots.

Impact of the Omission

Loss of Depth:
Arianne and Doran's characters provide significant political intrigue and depth to the story of Dorne and its relationship with the Iron Throne. Their absence means that some of the nuanced political dynamics present in George R.R. Martin's books were not explored.

Character Development:
Arianne is a strong character with her own motivations and ambitions. Her exclusion means that the show misses out on exploring her journey, which could have added richness to the series.

Alternative Scenarios

Without Arianne and Doran's subplots, the show had to rely on other characters to convey the narrative. This included:

Prince Oberyn: His role was central in Season 4, but some argue that the story would have been more seamless with his brother, Doran, playing a greater part. Character Complementarity: Doran and Oberyn complemented each other, with Oberyn getting things done and Doran planning strategically. By excluding Doran, the complexity of this dynamic was lost. Prince Doran's Political Strategy: He supported his brother and helped to develop strategies to avenge Elia and the deaths of their niece and nephew. He was key to understanding Oberyn as a man of both intelligence and impulse. Doring's Long-term Planning: Doran planned to support the Targaryen return to the throne, while Oberyn got things done. Their plans and actions were interconnected and enriching to the story.

Conclusion

While the decision to cut Arianne and Doran's subplot may have been justified in terms of pacing and focus, it arguably came at the cost of character depth and political intrigue. The show had to make tough choices, and while it succeeded in many areas, some fans believe that the richness of the source material could have enhanced the overall narrative. Ultimately, whether it was a mistake or a necessary simplification, the absence of their subplots has left a gap in the story that would have enriched the viewing experience.

Key Takeaways:

The complexity of the series required a focus on key characters and arcs. Excluding Arianne and Doran's subplots impacted political depth and character development. A more nuanced approach with their involvement could have provided a more complete narrative.

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