Why 'The Last of the Starks' is the Worst Episode of Game of Thrones S8E4 - A Deep Dive

Game of Thrones is a show that has captured the hearts and minds of millions of viewers worldwide. Each season offers a unique blend of drama, action, and character development that keeps fans on the edge of their seats. However, Season 8, Episode 4, also known as 'The Last of the Starks,' stands out for all the wrong reasons. This article will delve into the reasons why this episode is considered the nadir of the series, particularly with respect to the Stark family's actions and reactions after the defeat of the Night King.

Why Defaming Daenerys is the Worst Possible Action

One of the central themes of Game of Thrones is the concept of honor, loyalty, and true leadership. The Starks have always embodied these qualities, from Ned Stark's unwavering morality to Bran's prophetic journeys. However, the episode 'The Last of the Starks' showcases a drastic deterioration in the Stark family's values and integrity. Defaming Daenerys Targaryen, a character who played a crucial role in saving the world, is perhaps the most egregious betrayal of all. Despite her critics, Daenerys had shown genuine compassion and care for the North, including the Starks. She played a pivotal role in the fight against the Night King, and her dragons' assistance was invaluable in the battle.

Defiance with Dishonesty - Sansa's Actions and Words

Sansa Stark, the aspiring leader of Northern houses, seems to have adopted the tactics of the old Lannister dynasty. Déjà vu: In the crypt scene, Sansa is found trembling in fear while Niger, the commander of the Unsullied, is dispatched to deal with Dany. It’s a stark contrast to the initial respect Sansa extends to Dany, reflecting a shift that signals betrayal. When Sansa returns, she acts more animated and less hesitant, revealing her true colors. Her words and actions in the episode undermine Dany’s role as a leader and hero, which is not only ungrateful but also morally soundless. The manner in which she dismisses Dany’s rightful claim to the Iron Throne without even a nod to the sacrifices made is damaging to both characters and the viewer’s perception of her integrity.

Arya's Proud Defiance and the Stark Legacy

Arya Stark, known for her sharp wit and fighting skills, also shows a definite detachment from the family heritage in this episode. Her statement, "If only we could only trust people who is always 'one of us,'" is a direct counter to the traditional values of the Stark family. She embodies the essence of a trained assassin, valuing allegiances based on usefulness rather than family ties. This shift in her character leaves a bitter taste as it contrasts sharply with everything the Starks have stood for over the years. Furthermore, she leaves her family behind, challenging the audience to question her true loyalty and whether she has truly grown beyond the resentments that drove her actions earlier in the series.

Bran's Dreaming and the Stark Legacy

Leaving the realm of characters, Bran Stark, the mysterious new Starks' leader, also represents a departure from the traditional Stark ethos. Although he may be seen as more dreamlike and less directly engaged in leadership, his apathy towards the reality of the Starks’ destiny is concerning. The episode title, 'The Last of the Starks,' implies a sense of doom and finality, but essentially, it is a reflection of each character’s individual decline. The Starks have always been the loyal and promising family, and their falling apart, especially in this particularly troubling episode, is deeply disheartening. The episode effectively portrays a fractured Stark family, where the remnants of loyalty and integrity they once had are lost in a haze of judgment and arrogance.

In conclusion, 'The Last of the Starks' is a dark chapter in the final season of Game of Thrones. This episode encapsulates the worst aspects of the Starks - a family that turns against its own, misinterprets heroism, and wilfully ignores the sacrifices made to save the world. It is a stark reminder of the moral implications of betrayal and the potential consequences of placing pride and personal opinions above the good of the realm.