Key Differences Between Game of Thrones Season 5 and George R.R. Martin's Novels

Game of Thrones, HBO's popular adaptation of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, often diverges from the original novels in ways that significantly impact the storylines and character developments. One notable aspect is the fate of several characters in Season 5. This article will discuss the major differences in character deaths between the show and the books.

Notable Deaths in Game of Thrones Season 5

Several significant character deaths in Season 5 of Game of Thrones do not occur in the corresponding books. These stark differences can be attributed to the creative liberties taken by the showrunners and the dramatic needs of television storytelling.

Mance Rayder

Mance Rayder, a key figure in the wildlings' resistance against the Night's Watch, is killed by Stannis Baratheon in the show. However, in the books, Mance Rayder plays a different role and remains alive, continuing to challenge the authority of the Night's Watch and the Starks.

Shireen Baratheon

Shireen Baratheon, Stannis Baratheon's daughter, is burned at the stake by her own father in an attempt to secure favor with the Lord of Light. This fate is contrary to the books, where Shireen is alive and her future remains uncertain.

Selyse Baratheon

Selyse dies alongside Shireen in the show, but her death does not occur in the books. Selyse, Stannis's wife, meets an untimely end in Season 5, while in the books she continues to play a role in the narrative.

Barristan Selmy

Barristan Selmy, a loyal knight of Aerys II Targaryen, is killed by the Sons of the Harpy in the show. Yet, in the books, Barristan Selmy is still alive and continues to serve Daenerys Targaryen, playing a significant role in the story's progression.

Potential Character Deaths in the Books

While these deaths are significant in the context of the show, it is important to note that the books are not yet complete. Therefore, some of these deaths may not occur in the books, and many characters listed may still meet their fates differently. For example, Shireen Baratheon's death by burning at Stannis's hands is predicted in the books but has not yet happened.

Other Notable Characters

Several other characters from the fifth season are also significantly different in the books:

Princess Myrcella Baratheon Ser Barristan Selmy Hizdahr Zo Loraq King Stannis Baratheon Princess Shireen Baratheon Seryn Trant King Mance Rayder Queen Selyse Florent A woman who is possibly Mother Mole

It is worth noting that while these characters are alive in the books, a few may still die, but the circumstances and timing of their deaths may be altered.

Additionally, some characters mentioned in Season 5 have already entered into the narrative of the sixth book, indicating that the show and books may have diverged in ways that could lead to different outcomes for certain characters.

Characters Who Died in the Books but Are Still Alive in the Show

While the show often introduces new characters and takes dramatic liberties, there are no characters currently shown to be deceased who have yet to meet their end in the books. However, the following characters have yet to die in the books:

Balon Greyjoy Kevan Lannister Great Maester Pycelle

These characters may face their fates in the upcoming seasons, or their roles may be altered in the books.

Conclusion

The discrepancies between the Game of Thrones show and the original books highlight the nuances of adapting complex and expansive narrative worlds. While the show often takes creative liberties, the original novels remain a rich source for fan discussions and dedicated readers. As the final seasons of the show approach, fans and readers alike are eager to see how the diverging storylines will eventually converge.