Why Some Game of Thrones Characters Deserved More Attention

Game of Thrones is a rich and complex universe filled with unforgettable characters. From the ruthless Tyrion Lannister to the enigmatic Jon Snow, each character contributes to the grand narrative. However, some characters, despite their importance and the potential for impactful storylines, received less attention than their worth might warrant. This article explores why certain characters should have received more focus and offers some episode suggestions to rectify this.

The Overlooked Ramsay Bolton

One of the most controversial and polarizing characters is Ramsay Bolton. Far from the mere villain we often see, Ramsay is a complex figure with a dark and twisted psyche. Despite his horrific actions, his ultimate downfall in the show was arguably poetic justice. Sansa Stark's act of revenge by feeding Ramsay to his own dogs might have been the crowning moment of his nemesis, but it certainly wasn't the only reason for his prominence. The dialogue between Sansa and Ramsay during his last moments, showing the calmness and the cold logic behind her actions, underscored the character's complexity. If given more screen time, we could have explored how Ramsay's upbringing molded his toxic nature, as well as his cunning and strategic mind. The show could have delved into his early encounters with the Brotherhood Without Banners or his role in the Battle of the Bastards. This would have provided a richer character arc and a more nuanced portrayal of his villainy.

Mysterious Children of the Forest and the Night King

The Children of the Forest and the Night King are shrouded in mystery, and their significance to the story is immeasurable. Their creation of the Wall and their mysterious disappearance after the Alliance won the War for the Dawn remain unexplained, leaving a gaping hole in the narrative. An entire episode could have explored the Children of the Forest's backstory, their culture, and their religious beliefs. It would have been fascinating to see how they defeated the Night King and his forces and what secrets they might have held. The Night King himself, with his dark magic and army of White Walkers, could have been given more development to understand the depths of his power and the threat he poses to the Seven Kingdoms.

The Ghost of High Heart: A Forgotten Chapter

The Ghost of High Heart, mentioned cryptically in the show, is a mysterious character with a significant role in the history of the Seven Kingdoms. Her connection to Aegon V's court and the events at Summerhall suggest a deeper, more intricate narrative. The Hound and Arya's potential encounter with her could have offered a thrilling and unexpected twist to the story. Furthermore, her possible survival and the possibility that Jaime or Brienne might cross paths with her could have led to a thrilling and emotional scene, providing new insight into past events and the present struggles of the characters.

Sir Samwell Tarly: Beyond the Jokes

Sir Sam, or his initial appearance as Sam, is a character whose intelligence, loyalty, and bravery are under-appreciated. His role as a Night's Watch brother and his ultimate quest to find a way to end the White Walkers are pivotal to the story. Yet, the audience often perceives him as the jester or the fat auxiliary character in dire need of a makeover. Introducing more scenes focusing on Sam's strategic and tactical prowess, his targeted hit on the Other before it was fashionable, could have elevated his significance in the story. His growth from a naive young man to a seasoned and trusted soldier demonstrates his potential to become a significant character in the final seasons.

Ser Barristan Selmy: Another Missing Piece

Another underutilized character is Ser Barristan Selmy. His potential as a mentor and advisor to Daenerys Targaryen or even Jon Snow was not fully explored. His survival beyond his on-screen death in the show and his important role in the books offer a wealth of untapped material. Additionally, Kevan Lannister, a character often overlooked in the show, is actually an underrated figure. His political acumen and his contribution to Lannister politics are crucial and deserve more recognition and focus. Furthermore, the story of Aurane Waters, the Brown Ben Plumm, and Eddard Stark (or Ned) offer compelling narratives that could enhance the overall depth of the show. By incorporating more of these characters, the show could have provided a more comprehensive and intricate narrative, enriching the storyline and offering a more satisfying viewing experience.

Eddard Stark's story, particularly, could have benefited from more development. His early years, the bonds he formed, especially with his friend Robert Baratheon, and his eventual decision to leave the political arena in King's Landing, are crucial to understanding his character. His role as a leader and his ultimate sacrifice for his family and the North exemplify his integrity and his unwavering loyalty. Delving into these aspects would have provided a richer character arc and a more nuanced portrayal of one of the show's most beloved characters.

Conclusion

In summary, there are several elements in Game of Thrones that could be further developed to enhance the narrative and provide a more satisfying viewing experience. Characters such as Ramsay Bolton, the Children of the Forest and the Night King, Ser Barristan Selmy, and even Sir Sam could have received more attention and development. By exploring these characters and their stories in greater depth, the show could have avoided some of the criticism it faced and provided a more complete and engaging series. These episode suggestions are a stepping stone towards a more fulfilling and nuanced conclusion to one of the most beloved television series in recent memory.