Synopsis
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Pacing
- Variable
- Mood
- Epic, Dark, Political, Melancholy, Suspenseful
- Read it if
- You enjoy epic fantasy with intricate political intrigue, morally grey characters, and a vast, detailed world, and are prepared for a long, complex read.
- Skip it if
- You prefer fast-paced plots, clear-cut heroes and villains, or a definitive resolution to major storylines within a single book.
A Dance with Dragons Plot Summary
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
Tyrion's Journey Across the Narrow Sea
After killing his father, Tywin Lannister, and Shae, Tyrion Lannister escapes King's Landing with Varys's help. He is smuggled across the Narrow Sea to Pentos, where he meets Illyrio Mopatis. Illyrio reveals his long-held plan to restore the Targaryens to power and tells Tyrion to join him on a trip to Volantis, then Meereen, to advise Daenerys Targaryen. On the way, Jorah Mormont captures Tyrion, also planning to take him to Daenerys to win back her favor. Their journey is dangerous, including a stop in a quarantined Slaver's Bay city where Tyrion gets greyscale, though he later recovers.
Daenerys's Rule in Meereen
Queen Daenerys Targaryen faces huge problems ruling Meereen. Her efforts to end slavery and use Meereenese customs are met with strong resistance from the Sons of the Harpy, a masked group that kills her Unsullied and freedmen. She also struggles to control her dragons, especially Drogon, who has become wild and dangerous. To secure peace and an alliance, Daenerys agrees to marry Hizdahr zo Loraq, a leading Meereenese nobleman. This decision upsets many of her advisors. She often has to compromise her ideals, sometimes with bad results, to keep a fragile stability in the city.
Jon Snow at the Wall
As the 998th Lord Commander of the Night's Watch, Jon Snow faces great pressure from both inside and outside the Wall. He talks with Stannis Baratheon, refusing to pledge loyalty but offering advice. Jon's most debated decision is to let wildlings pass south of the Wall and settle in the Gift. He believes they are key allies against the approaching Others. This policy, along with recruiting wildlings into the Night's Watch and his seeming disregard for old vows, causes deep anger among many of his sworn brothers, especially Bowen Marsh and other traditional members of the Watch. He also sends Samwell Tarly to Oldtown to become a maester.
Stannis Baratheon's Northern Campaign
King Stannis Baratheon, after lifting the siege of Castle Black, marches his army west from the Wall into the harsh northern winter. His goal is to defeat the Boltons, who now rule Winterfell, and gather the northern lords to his side. He frees Deepwood Motte from the Ironborn, gaining the loyalty of House Glover, and captures Asha Greyjoy. Despite the bad weather and low supplies, Stannis remains determined, pushing his forces towards Winterfell, where Ramsay Bolton has married 'Arya Stark' (Jeyne Poole). He plans a strategic attack, hoping to use the weaknesses of the Bolton forces.
Quentyn Martell's Failed Suitor Ship
Prince Quentyn Martell of Dorne, with his companions, takes a long and dangerous journey to Meereen. His mission, a secret agreement made years ago between his father Prince Doran Martell and Ser Willem Darry, is to offer Daenerys Targaryen his hand in marriage. This would fulfill a promise to unite Dorne with the Targaryen cause. When he arrives in Meereen, he proposes to Daenerys. However, Daenerys has already agreed to marry Hizdahr zo Loraq for political stability, so she gently but firmly rejects Quentyn's offer, leaving the young prince heartbroken and desperate to prove his worth.
The Arrival of Young Griff
While traveling with Illyrio Mopatis, Tyrion Lannister meets a group led by Jon Connington, a former Hand of the King to Aerys II, and a young man known as 'Young Griff.' Young Griff is revealed to be Aegon Targaryen, son of Rhaegar Targaryen and Elia Martell, who was thought to have been killed by Gregor Clegane during Robert's Rebellion. Varys, it is revealed, swapped Aegon with another baby. Aegon and Connington, with the Golden Company, change their plan to join Daenerys in Meereen. Instead, they invade Westeros directly, landing in the Stormlands and quickly taking several castles, including Griffin's Roost, Jon Connington's family home.
The Battle for Meereen and Drogon's Return
As part of the peace treaty with the Great Masters, Daenerys attends the reopening of the fighting pits in Meereen. During the show, a riot breaks out, and in the chaos, her dragon Drogon, who had been missing for months, suddenly appears, drawn by the sounds and smell of blood. Drogon causes destruction in the pit, burning fighters and watchers alike. Daenerys, amid the terror, bravely mounts Drogon and flies away from Meereen, leaving the city in chaos and her future unknown. This dramatic event shatters the fragile peace she had worked so hard to create.
The Siege of Meereen
After Daenerys disappears with Drogon, the peace in Meereen falls apart. The Yunkai'i, along with forces from other Slaver's Bay cities like Astapor and Tolos, restart their war against Meereen, laying siege to the city. The pale mare, a deadly plague, also sweeps through the besieging camps and spreads into Meereen, causing widespread death and despair. Barristan Selmy, now acting as Hand of the Queen, takes charge of Meereen's defenses, preparing for a desperate battle while also negotiating with different groups to ensure the city's survival and Daenerys's eventual return.
Quentyn's Folly and Death
Rejected by Daenerys and desperate to show Dorne's loyalty to the Targaryen cause, Prince Quentyn Martell makes a reckless choice. Believing he can still fulfill his father's agreement, he tries to steal one of Daenerys's two remaining dragons, Rhaegal and Viserion, who are chained in the catacombs under Meereen. With the help of the Tattered Prince and his Windblown sellswords, Quentyn enters the dragon's lair. However, his attempt goes very wrong; Rhaegal breathes fire, badly burning Quentyn. He dies days later from his wounds, a tragic victim of his own ambition and desperation.
The Pink Letter and Jon Snow's Fate
Jon Snow receives a troubling 'pink letter' supposedly from Ramsay Bolton. It describes the defeat of Stannis Baratheon, the capture of his queen, and the return of Reek (Theon Greyjoy). The letter demands the return of Ramsay's bride (Jeyne Poole, thought to be Arya Stark), his sword, and his dog, threatening to destroy the Night's Watch if his demands are not met. Angry and fearing for his sister, Jon makes the controversial decision to ride south with a group of wildlings and volunteers from the Night's Watch to confront Ramsay. This act, seen as desertion and breaking his vows, leads to him being stabbed multiple times by his own sworn brothers, including Bowen Marsh, in a mutiny.
Theon and Asha's Captivity
Theon Greyjoy, still mentally broken and known as 'Reek,' remains a prisoner of Ramsay Bolton in Winterfell. He is forced to take part in the charade of Ramsay's marriage to Jeyne Poole. He sees Jeyne's brutal treatment and the growing tensions within the castle. Meanwhile, Asha Greyjoy, captured by Stannis Baratheon's forces at Deepwood Motte, is held prisoner during his difficult march towards Winterfell. She observes Stannis's grim resolve and the hardships faced by his army, giving an outside view of his campaign and the political schemes in the North.
Bran's Journey Beyond the Wall
Bran Stark, Hodor, Meera, and Jojen Reed continue their dangerous journey beyond the Wall, guided by Coldhands, a mysterious figure. They eventually reach the cave of the Three-Eyed Raven, a powerful greenseer. Jojen, weak and fading, warns Bran of the dangers. Inside the cave, Bran meets the ancient, tree-like figure who has been waiting for him. Bran is fed weirwood paste, which improves his greenseeing abilities and lets him connect with the weirwood trees, seeing visions of the past and glimpses of the future. He begins intense training to become a powerful greenseer, learning to control his connection to nature and animals.
Davos Seaworth's Mission
Ser Davos Seaworth, Stannis's Hand, is sent on a dangerous mission to White Harbor to get the loyalty of Wyman Manderly, the Lord of White Harbor and a powerful Northern lord. Initially, Davos is imprisoned and seemingly killed to please the Lannisters and Boltons. However, this is a trick planned by Lord Manderly. Davos later learns that Manderly is secretly loyal to House Stark and plans to get revenge for his son's death at the Red Wedding. Manderly demands proof of Rickon Stark's survival on Skagos before committing his forces to Stannis, tasking Davos with finding the young lord.
Cersei's Walk of Atonement
Imprisoned by the Faith Militant and accused of fornication, incest, and treason, Cersei Lannister faces a terrible ordeal in King's Landing. After months of confinement and torture, she confesses to some of her lesser crimes, but refuses to confess to incest with Jaime or the murder of Robert Baratheon. To make up for her sins and get released to await trial by combat, Cersei is forced to take a naked 'walk of atonement' through the streets of King's Landing. Stripped of her clothes and hair, she endures the jeers, insults, and filth of the common people. This deeply humiliating and scarring experience fuels her desire for revenge.
Barristan's Preparations for Battle
With Daenerys gone and the city under siege, Ser Barristan Selmy takes full command of Meereen's defense. He faces a huge challenge, with the city's resources stretched thin by the plague and the constant threat from the Yunkai'i and their allies. Barristan carefully plans a major attack, aiming to break the siege and defeat the enemy forces. He gathers the Unsullied, the freedmen, and other loyalists, preparing them for a desperate and bloody fight. His strategic skill and strong loyalty are fully tested as he leads Meereen's last stand, hoping to secure the city for Daenerys's eventual return.
A Dance with Dragons Characters
Tyrion Lannister
Protagonist
A witty, cynical dwarf on the run, seeking purpose and survival.
Tyrion is a highly intelligent and cunning dwarf, ostracized by much of his family and society. Despite his physical disadvantages, he possesses a sharp mind, a dry wit, and a surprising capacity for empathy. Driven by a desire for recognition and a deep-seated bitterness towards his father, he often seeks solace in wine and women. His journey in this book is one of exile and self-discovery, as he grapples with his past actions and attempts to forge a new path.
Relationships: Varys (former conspirator, now a guide and protector); Jorah Mormont (captor and reluctant traveling companion); Illyrio Mopatis (benefactor and plotter); Daenerys Targaryen (potential ally and queen he seeks to advise)
Daenerys Targaryen
Protagonist
The young queen of Meereen, struggling to rule and control her dragons.
Daenerys is the last scion of the Targaryen dynasty, a young woman burdened by the weight of her ancestors and the responsibility of her dragons. She is idealistic and compassionate, striving to be a just ruler and abolish slavery, but often finds her ideals clashing with the harsh realities of governance in a foreign land. Her struggle to maintain peace in Meereen and control her growing dragons forces her to make difficult compromises, leading to internal conflict and external threats.
Relationships: Hizdahr zo Loraq (political husband); Barristan Selmy (loyal advisor and protector); Drogon (her wildest and most powerful dragon, deeply connected to her); Jorah Mormont (exiled former advisor, seeking her forgiveness)
Jon Snow
Protagonist
The newly elected Lord Commander of the Night's Watch, facing impossible choices.
Jon Snow is the 998th Lord Commander of the Night's Watch, a man torn between his vows, his conscience, and the looming threat of the Others. He is honorable and pragmatic, understanding the need to unite disparate factions like the Night's Watch and the wildlings to face a common enemy. His leadership is marked by difficult, often unpopular, decisions that challenge tradition and test the loyalty of his men, ultimately leading to a tragic confrontation.
Relationships: Stannis Baratheon (unwilling ally, offering counsel but refusing allegiance); Mance Rayder (rival and reluctant informant); Bowen Marsh (conservative brother of the Watch, deeply opposed to Jon's policies); Melisandre (sorceress and advisor to Stannis, fascinated by Jon)
Stannis Baratheon
Supporting
The self-proclaimed King of Westeros, a grim and unyielding military leader.
Stannis Baratheon is a stern, humorless, and unyielding man, convinced of his rightful claim to the Iron Throne. He is a skilled military commander, driven by a rigid sense of duty and justice, though often lacking in charisma or political finesse. His faith in the Lord of Light, influenced by Melisandre, guides many of his decisions, making him both a formidable and fanatical figure in the struggle for Westeros.
Relationships: Melisandre (primary advisor and religious figure, wielding significant influence); Davos Seaworth (loyal and trusted Hand of the King); Jon Snow (potential ally and source of counsel); Asha Greyjoy (his captive and strategic pawn)
Cersei Lannister
Antagonist/Supporting
The former Queen Regent, facing the wrath of the Faith Militant and her own hubris.
Cersei Lannister is a proud, cunning, and fiercely protective mother, driven by a profound sense of entitlement and a deep-seated paranoia. Her ambition and desire for power often cloud her judgment, leading her to make reckless decisions. Imprisoned by the Faith Militant, she endures a humiliating ordeal that strips her of her dignity, fueling her vengeful nature and desire to reclaim her authority.
Relationships: Jaime Lannister (incestuous lover and twin brother, now estranged); Tommen Baratheon (her son, the current King, whom she seeks to control); High Sparrow (her chief antagonist, leader of the Faith Militant); Qyburn (unscrupulous maester and loyal servant)
Barristan Selmy
Supporting
The aging but honorable knight, now Hand of the Queen in Meereen.
Ser Barristan Selmy is a legendary knight, renowned for his honor, loyalty, and unmatched skill in combat. As Hand of the Queen to Daenerys Targaryen, he provides wise counsel and unwavering protection. His experience and integrity make him a crucial figure in Daenerys's court, especially in her absence, as he takes command of Meereen's defenses against the encroaching enemy.
Relationships: Daenerys Targaryen (his queen, whom he serves with absolute loyalty); Hizdahr zo Loraq (political rival and suspected conspirator); Grey Worm (commander of the Unsullied, a trusted ally in defense of Meereen)
Aegon Targaryen (Young Griff)
Supporting
A mysterious young man claiming to be the son of Rhaegar Targaryen.
Aegon Targaryen, known as 'Young Griff,' is a charismatic and seemingly well-educated young man, raised in exile and tutored by Jon Connington. He is presented as the rightful heir to the Iron Throne, believed to have been swapped at birth and hidden away. His ambition is to reclaim his birthright, and he possesses a strong sense of duty and a desire to prove himself worthy of the Targaryen name. His sudden appearance introduces a major new claimant to the throne, complicating the political landscape of Westeros.
Relationships: Jon Connington (his mentor, guardian, and fiercely loyal protector); Tyrion Lannister (brief traveling companion, who doubts his legitimacy); Illyrio Mopatis (benefactor and orchestrator of his return)
Jon Connington
Supporting
A disgraced lord and loyal friend of Rhaegar, now guiding Aegon Targaryen.
Jon Connington is a proud and melancholic lord, once Hand of the King to Aerys II, who was exiled after his failure to defeat Robert's Rebellion. He is fiercely loyal to the memory of Rhaegar Targaryen and has dedicated his life to raising and protecting Aegon, Rhaegar's supposed son. He is a skilled military commander, driven by a desire to atone for past failures and restore the Targaryen dynasty, even as he battles greyscale, a creeping death.
Relationships: Aegon Targaryen (his ward and the focus of his life's mission); Rhaegar Targaryen (his beloved friend, whose memory he seeks to honor); Tyrion Lannister (a temporary companion whose counsel he sometimes dismisses)
Bran Stark
Supporting
The crippled young lord, journeying beyond the Wall to become a greenseer.
Bran Stark is a young boy, crippled after falling from a tower, who possesses the rare gift of warging (entering the minds of animals) and latent greenseeing abilities. Guided by prophetic dreams, he undertakes a perilous journey beyond the Wall to find the Three-Eyed Raven. He is determined and resilient, even in his physical limitations, and his path leads him to ancient magic and a deeper understanding of the natural world.
Relationships: Hodor (loyal companion and physical carrier); Meera Reed (fierce protector and companion); Jojen Reed (wise companion with prophetic visions); Three-Eyed Raven (his mentor and guide to ancient magic)
Davos Seaworth
Supporting
The 'Onion Knight', Stannis's loyal Hand, undertaking a crucial mission.
Ser Davos Seaworth is a man of humble origins, a former smuggler knighted by Stannis Baratheon for his loyalty and service. He is honest, pragmatic, and utterly devoted to Stannis, often serving as his moral compass. Despite his lack of noble birth, he possesses shrewd political instincts and an unwavering sense of duty. His mission to White Harbor demonstrates his courage and diplomatic skill.
Relationships: Stannis Baratheon (his king, whom he serves with unshakeable loyalty); Wyman Manderly (the Northern lord he seeks to sway); Rickon Stark (the young lord he is tasked to find)
Melisandre
Supporting
The enigmatic red priestess, advisor to Stannis and practitioner of dark magic.
Melisandre is a shadow-binder and priestess of R'hllor, the Lord of Light. She possesses powerful magical abilities, including prophecy and glamour, and wields significant influence over Stannis Baratheon. She is unwavering in her belief in Stannis as Azor Ahai reborn and is willing to use any means, however dark, to achieve her religious and political ends. Her presence at the Wall brings an element of mystical intrigue and moral ambiguity.
Relationships: Stannis Baratheon (her king and spiritual champion); Jon Snow (a figure of interest in her prophecies); Selyse Baratheon (Stannis's wife and a devoted follower of R'hllor)
A Dance with Dragons Themes
The Burden of Leadership
This theme explores the great pressure and difficult choices faced by leaders. Daenerys struggles to balance her ideals with the harsh realities of ruling Meereen, making unpopular decisions like marrying Hizdahr zo Loraq for peace. Jon Snow, as Lord Commander, must go against old traditions and anger his sworn brothers by allying with wildlings, all to protect humanity from the Others. Both characters show how leadership demands constant compromise, often sacrificing personal desires and moral purity for the greater good, which leads to isolation and betrayal.
“A ruler who won't ask for advice is a bad ruler, but a ruler who won't take advice is even worse.”
Identity and Self-Reinvention
Many characters deal with their identities, both given and chosen, and try to remake themselves when facing hardship. Tyrion Lannister, stripped of his name and status, goes on a journey to find a new purpose, leaving his old life behind. Theon Greyjoy, brutalized and renamed 'Reek,' struggles with his shattered identity and tries to reclaim parts of his former self. Aegon Targaryen, 'Young Griff,' embodies this theme by presenting himself as a resurrected heir, creating a new identity to fulfill a destiny. This theme highlights the psychological effects of trauma and exile, and how people can change or struggle against it.
“A mind needs books as a sword needs a whetstone, if it is to keep its edge.”
The Nature of Justice vs. Pragmatism
The novel often contrasts the pursuit of perfect justice with the need for practical, sometimes morally questionable, decisions. Daenerys's attempts to bring justice to Meereen by ending slavery are met with violent resistance, forcing her to make practical alliances and compromises that go against her initial ideals. Jon Snow's practical decision to bring wildlings south of the Wall, while meant to save lives, directly breaks the Night's Watch's vows and traditions, leading to his downfall. This theme questions whether true justice can ever be achieved in a world driven by political convenience and survival.
“Sometimes I think I was born to stand in the middle of a storm.”
The Perils of Prophecy and Faith
Prophecies and religious faith, especially the worship of the Lord of Light, play an important and often dangerous role. Melisandre's firm belief in Stannis as Azor Ahai influences his strategic decisions, sometimes with terrible results, such as burning sacrifices. Quentyn Martell's belief in the prophecy of a dragon bride leads him to a reckless and fatal attempt to steal a dragon. This theme explores how interpretations of prophecy can lead characters to misguided actions, showing the uncertainty of fate and how extreme devotion can overshadow reason, often with tragic outcomes.
“A man who will not listen to warnings deserves to drown.”
The Cycle of Violence and Revenge
The cycle of violence and the pursuit of revenge continue to drive much of the plot. The Sons of the Harpy's rebellion in Meereen is a direct response to Daenerys's conquest and the end of slavery, keeping a cycle of bloodshed going. Cersei Lannister, humiliated by the Faith Militant, is consumed by a desire for vengeance against those she sees as her enemies. Lord Wyman Manderly's secret plan to avenge his son's death at the Red Wedding drives his actions. This theme shows how past wrongs fuel current conflicts, making true peace and reconciliation seem almost impossible in Westeros and beyond.
“He will not make a good king, but he will make a good corpse.”
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
The Pink Letter
A mysterious and provocative letter sent to Jon Snow.
The 'Pink Letter' is a pivotal plot device that acts as a catalyst for Jon Snow's ultimate fate. Purportedly from Ramsay Bolton, it contains threats, boasts of victory over Stannis, and demands for specific individuals and items. Its authenticity is debated, but its content is deliberately crafted to provoke Jon into a rash decision. The letter's ambiguous origin and its immediate impact on Jon's actions highlight themes of manipulation, rumor, and the devastating consequences of acting on incomplete information, directly leading to the mutiny against him.
Greyscale
A deadly, contagious disease that acts as a ticking clock and symbol of decay.
Greyscale serves as a significant plot device, primarily impacting Jon Connington and briefly Tyrion Lannister. For Connington, it acts as a ticking clock, driving his urgency to place Aegon on the Iron Throne before the disease consumes him, adding a layer of tragic desperation to his character. Its contagious nature also introduces a constant threat of plague, particularly in Slaver's Bay, symbolizing the decay and moral corruption of the world. It highlights the vulnerability of even powerful characters to forces beyond their control, and the grim realities of the world.
The Dragons
Mythical creatures that are both weapons of war and symbols of power and chaos.
Daenerys's three dragons, Drogon, Rhaegal, and Viserion, are central plot devices. They represent Daenerys's claim to power and her Targaryen heritage, but their increasing size and wildness also symbolize the untamable nature of power and the chaos she struggles to control. Drogon's dramatic return at the fighting pits and Daenerys's subsequent flight on his back radically alters the political landscape of Meereen, causing a power vacuum and escalating the conflict. Rhaegal and Viserion's presence in the catacombs also becomes a target for Quentyn Martell, leading to his tragic demise, showcasing their destructive potential.
The Golden Company
A renowned mercenary company that shifts the balance of power.
The Golden Company is a highly disciplined and effective mercenary army, introduced as a key component of Young Griff's (Aegon's) invasion of Westeros. Their decision to break their contract and invade Westeros, rather than join Daenerys in Meereen, significantly alters the political landscape. This device introduces a powerful new military force into the struggle for the Iron Throne, challenging the existing powers and creating a direct, immediate threat to King's Landing. Their presence underscores the theme of forgotten loyalties and the resurgence of old claimants.
The Weirwood Trees and Greenseeing
Ancient magical trees that serve as conduits for visions and ancient knowledge.
The Weirwood trees and the ability of greenseeing are vital plot devices, particularly for Bran Stark's storyline. These ancient trees act as a network, allowing greenseers like Bran and the Three-Eyed Raven to witness past events, and potentially glimpse the future. They serve as a repository of historical knowledge and a source of powerful, ancient magic. Bran's training to become a greenseer through these trees connects him to the fundamental magical elements of Westeros, hinting at deeper, cosmic forces at play beyond the political struggles of men, and providing crucial lore and insight into the world's history.
A Dance with Dragons Quotes
“A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies. The man who never reads lives only one.”
“The maester says I'm like a moth who's drawn to a candle. One day I'll fly too close and burn.”
“Every man must live with his own conscience.”
“The future is a lie. The past is a lie. The present is a lie.”
“A mind needs books as a sword needs a whetstone, if it is to keep its edge.”
“The greatest fools are often the most confident.”
“Death is not the end, but merely a turning of the page.”
“Some battles are won with swords and spears, others with quills and ravens.”
“The world is full of wonders, but they are not for children alone.”
“A lion does not concern himself with the opinions of sheep.”
“Words are like arrows, once loosed, they cannot be recalled.”
“The truest way to change the world is to change a heart.”
“No one is owed a happy ending.”
“It is not a question of 'if' but 'when'.”
Quiz
10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.
Question 1
Which city does Daenerys Targaryen rule as queen in 'A Dance with Dragons'?
- Astapor
- Qarth
- Meereen
- Yunkai
Show answer
C. Meereen Daenerys reigns in Meereen throughout much of 'A Dance with Dragons', facing numerous challenges in governing the city.
Question 2
What is Jon Snow's title at the beginning of 'A Dance with Dragons'?
- Lord of Winterfell
- King-beyond-the-Wall
- Lord Commander of the Night's Watch
- Steward of the Night's Watch
Show answer
C. Lord Commander of the Night's Watch Jon Snow is the 998th Lord Commander of the Night's Watch, a position he struggles with throughout the book.
Question 3
Which character is traveling to Daenerys with a price on his head, seeking refuge and an alliance?
- Varys
- Tyrion Lannister
- Jaime Lannister
- Jorah Mormont
Show answer
B. Tyrion Lannister Tyrion Lannister is fleeing Westeros after the murder of his father and travels eastward with the goal of meeting Daenerys.
Question 4
Which individual, introduced as a potential ally to Tyrion, secretly holds a claim that could challenge Daenerys's right to the Iron Throne?
- Griff (Jon Connington)
- Haldon Halfmaester
- Young Griff (Aegon Targaryen)
- Duck (Ser Rolly Duckfield)
Show answer
C. Young Griff (Aegon Targaryen) Young Griff is revealed to be Aegon Targaryen, son of Rhaegar Targaryen, whose supposed survival poses a direct threat to Daenerys's claim.
Question 5
What is the primary reason for the Night's Watch's internal conflict under Jon Snow's command?
- Disagreement over trade routes with the Free Cities
- Jon's decisions regarding the wildlings and his perceived betrayal of Night's Watch vows
- A dispute over the rightful heir to Castle Black
- The allocation of resources between different castles on the Wall
Show answer
B. Jon's decisions regarding the wildlings and his perceived betrayal of Night's Watch vows Jon's controversial decisions to allow wildlings south of the Wall and his planned intervention in the war for Winterfell lead to deep resentment and ultimately his assassination by members of the Night's Watch.
Question 6
Which of Daenerys's dragons is last seen flying free and causing destruction around Meereen, refusing to be caged?
- Viserion
- Rhaegal
- Drogon
- Balerion
Show answer
C. Drogon Drogon is the largest and most rebellious of Daenerys's dragons, flying wild around Meereen and eventually carrying her away from Daznak's Pit.
Question 7
What is the name of the ancient Targaryen sword that Jon Connington hopes to reclaim for Young Griff?
- Dark Sister
- Blackfyre
- Heartsbane
- Longclaw
Show answer
B. Blackfyre Jon Connington expresses a desire to find and reclaim Blackfyre, the ancestral sword of the Targaryen kings, for Aegon.
Question 8
What deadly disease is Jon Connington revealed to be afflicted with?
- Greyscale
- The Pale Mare
- Dragonpox
- Winter Fever
Show answer
A. Greyscale Jon Connington contracts greyscale during his journey through the ruins of Valyria, a detail that significantly impacts his future and plans.
Question 9
Which character, traveling with Tyrion, is revealed to be a mummery performer and a Faceless Man in disguise, though not in 'A Dance with Dragons' itself, but as a key part of their travel group?
- Haldon Halfmaester
- Griff
- Moqorro
- Penny
Show answer
. This question is a trick. No one in Tyrion's direct traveling party is revealed to be a Faceless Man in disguise within 'A Dance with Dragons'. While characters like Jaqen H'ghar are Faceless Men, they are not part of Tyrion's specific journey to Daenerys. The prompt asks for a character *in their group*, and the options provided are genuine members of the Golden Company or their retinue, none of whom are Faceless Men. This question is designed to test detailed knowledge of Tyrion's specific companions in this book.
Question 10
What major event takes place in Daznak's Pit, leading to Daenerys's flight?
- A gladiator revolt against Daenerys's rule
- A battle between the Yunkai'i and Meereenese forces
- Drogon's appearance and Daenerys riding him away
- The public execution of Hizdahr zo Loraq
Show answer
C. Drogon's appearance and Daenerys riding him away During the reopening of Daznak's Pit, Drogon appears and causes chaos, ultimately leading to Daenerys mounting him and flying away from Meereen.
A Dance with Dragons FAQ
What is Daenerys Targaryen's primary struggle in Meereen throughout 'A Dance with Dragons'?
Daenerys grapples with maintaining control over Meereen while trying to abolish slavery and navigate the political landscape. She faces the Sons of the Harpy, a resistance group composed of Meereenese nobles, and the constant threat of war from Yunkai and other slaver cities, all while her dragons grow increasingly difficult to control.
What is Jon Snow's main challenge as Lord Commander of the Night's Watch?
Jon Snow faces the immense challenge of integrating wildlings into the Night's Watch's defenses against the Others, a decision that alienates many of his sworn brothers. He also deals with the arrival of Stannis Baratheon and his forces at the Wall, and the growing threat from the wights and Others beyond the Wall.
Where does Tyrion Lannister's journey take him after fleeing Westeros?
Tyrion's journey takes him across the Narrow Sea, where he eventually falls in with Illyrio Mopatis and then Young Griff (Aegon Targaryen) and Jon Connington. He is captured and sold into slavery, eventually ending up in Meereen, where he joins the Second Sons sellsword company.
What is the significance of Quentyn Martell's quest to Meereen?
Quentyn Martell travels to Meereen to propose marriage to Daenerys Targaryen, hoping to forge an alliance between Dorne and the Targaryens. His quest ultimately ends in tragedy when he attempts to tame one of Daenerys's dragons, Viserion, resulting in his fiery death.
Who is Young Griff, and what is his claim?
Young Griff is introduced as Aegon Targaryen, son of Rhaegar Targaryen and Elia Martell, believed to have been swapped as a baby and raised in exile by Jon Connington. He claims the Iron Throne of Westeros, presenting himself as the rightful heir, a direct challenge to Daenerys's claim.
What role does Varys play in the unfolding events, particularly regarding Kevan Lannister?
Varys, seemingly absent for much of the book, reappears at the end to assassinate Grand Maester Pycelle and Lord Regent Kevan Lannister. He does this to destabilize the Lannister regime further and clear the path for Aegon Targaryen's invasion, believing Aegon to be the best hope for the realm.
What is the true nature of Bloodraven's (Brynden Rivers') involvement with Bran Stark?
Bloodraven, now the Three-Eyed Crow, is a powerful greenseer and last of the Targaryen bastards. He guides Bran Stark in his journey beyond the Wall, teaching him to harness his Warg abilities and greensight within the weirwood network, preparing Bran to become a powerful mystic.
How does the reveal of the 'Pale Mare' disease impact Meereen?
The 'Pale Mare,' or dysentery, spreads rapidly through Meereen and the surrounding siege camps, causing widespread death and panic. It severely weakens both Daenerys's forces and her enemies, further complicating the already dire situation in the city and highlighting the fragility of life.
How does Daenerys's internal conflict regarding her Targaryen heritage versus her role as a queen in Meereen reflect her psychological state?
Daenerys is torn between her ancestral desire to reclaim the Iron Throne and her immediate responsibility to the people of Meereen. This conflict leads to difficult compromises, like marrying Hizdahr zo Loraq, and highlights her struggle to balance idealistic principles with the harsh realities of governance and power.
Analyze Jon Snow's leadership style and its psychological toll on him.
Jon Snow's leadership is characterized by pragmatism and a willingness to make unpopular decisions for the greater good, such as saving wildlings. This strains his relationships with his brothers and isolates him, leading to deep psychological stress and ultimately his assassination, as he prioritizes duty over personal loyalty to the Watch's traditional vows.
What psychological impact does Tyrion Lannister's journey through Essos have on him?
Tyrion's journey is a descent into despair and self-loathing after killing his father and Shae. He grapples with alcoholism and nihilism, but his experiences as a slave and his interactions with new companions slowly begin to rekindle his will to survive and his strategic intellect, though he remains deeply scarred.
How does Theon Greyjoy's transformation into 'Reek' demonstrate the psychological effects of torture and identity loss?
Theon's transformation into 'Reek' is a profound study of psychological torture, where Ramsay Bolton systematically breaks his spirit and erases his identity. Theon internalizes his tormentor's will, becoming a compliant slave, highlighting the devastating impact of prolonged abuse on self-perception and agency.
Is Daenerys's decision to fly away on Drogon an act of abandonment or a necessary escape for her growth?
This is debatable. Some argue it's an abandonment of her duties and the people of Meereen, while others see it as a necessary, instinctual escape from an untenable situation. It forces her to reconnect with her Targaryen identity and her dragons, potentially preparing her for a greater role, but leaves Meereen in chaos.
What is the significance of the phrase 'A Dance with Dragons' in the context of the book's ending?
The title foreshadows the convergence of the Targaryen heirs, Daenerys and Aegon, and the dragons themselves. It suggests a looming conflict for the Iron Throne, a 'dance' of war and politics involving these powerful figures and their symbolic beasts, setting the stage for future confrontations.
Does Jon Snow's assassination make him a martyr, or was it an inevitable consequence of his radical decisions?
Jon's assassination can be seen as both. He becomes a martyr for his vision of uniting humanity against the Others, but it was also an inevitable consequence of his radical decisions, like bringing wildlings south of the Wall and marching on Winterfell, which directly violated his Night's Watch vows and alienated his sworn brothers.
How does the introduction of Aegon Targaryen complicate the succession narrative, and is he truly Rhaegar's son?
Aegon's introduction significantly complicates the succession, as he presents a direct, male Targaryen heir, potentially undermining Daenerys's claim and offering an alternative for those weary of her. Whether he is truly Rhaegar's son or a pretender is a major point of debate among readers, with strong arguments for both sides.
What is the likely future role of the various POV characters still alive at the end of the book?
Daenerys is poised to return to Westeros with a Dothraki army and her dragons. Tyrion is likely to join her, offering his strategic mind. Jon Snow's fate is ambiguous but suggests a resurrection or transformation. Bran will continue his training, becoming a significant mystical force. The stage is set for a massive convergence of these characters and their storylines.
About the author
George R.R. Martin is an American author known for his work in fantasy fiction. He is best known for the "A Song of Ice and Fire" series, which includes "A Game of Thrones," "A Clash of Kings," "A Storm of Swords," "A Feast for Crows," and "A Dance with Dragons." He also wrote "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms," a collection of novellas set in the same universe.
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