Synopsis
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Pacing
- Slow
- Mood
- Dark, Political, Introspective, Melancholy
- Read it if
- You enjoy complex, character-driven political fantasies with multiple interwoven storylines and a focus on the aftermath of war.
- Skip it if
- You prefer a single protagonist, fast-paced action, or a clear-cut hero's journey, or if you haven't read the preceding books in the series.
A Feast for Crows Plot Summary
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
The Queen Regent's Burden
After Tywin Lannister's death, Cersei Lannister becomes the full regent for her son, King Tommen Baratheon. She quickly removes those she sees as disloyal or unable, replacing them with her own allies, often men of questionable character or limited skill. Her fear grows, fed by prophecies and threats from Margaery Tyrell and her family, who are becoming popular with the common people. Cersei struggles to manage the crown's growing debts and ongoing wars, while also dealing with Jaime's absence and her worsening relationship with Kevan Lannister, who she believes is undermining her power. She tries to strengthen the Lannister position by working with the Faith of the Seven, rearming the Faith Militant, a choice that will have unexpected results.
Brienne's Quest for Sansa
Brienne of Tarth, now with Podrick Payne, starts her promise to Jaime Lannister: to find Sansa Stark. Their journey takes them through the war-damaged Riverlands, a land still recovering from conflict, where they see widespread hunger, crime, and the lasting effects of the War of the Five Kings. Brienne meets different people, including Septon Meribald and the Elder Brother of the Quiet Isle, who offer wisdom about the suffering of common people. She constantly faces doubt and danger because of her unusual role as a female knight. Her quest is full of danger and makes her face the horrors of war and the unclear morals of the realm, eventually bringing her to Lady Stoneheart and the Brotherhood Without Banners.
Jaime's Redemption Arc
Jaime Lannister, after refusing Cersei's call to King's Landing, travels through the Riverlands to end the remaining groups of resistance. He successfully arranges the surrender of Riverrun from Brynden 'Blackfish' Tully, avoiding more fighting. During his travels, Jaime thinks about his past actions, breaking his oaths, and his love for Cersei. He starts to make a new path for himself, separate from his sister's influence. He shows surprising mercy and fairness, often choosing peaceful solutions over violence. He confronts his image as the 'Kingslayer' and tries to live up to the white cloak of the Kingsguard, showing a growing sense of honor and responsibility that is very different from his earlier self.
The Iron Islands' Kingsmoot
After King Balon Greyjoy's death, the Iron Islands gather for a kingsmoot to choose a new leader. Asha Greyjoy, Balon's daughter, tries to claim the throne, suggesting a new, more peaceful way for the Ironborn. Victarion Greyjoy, Balon's brother and Lord Captain of the Iron Fleet, also claims the throne, promising to return to the old ways of raiding. However, it is Euron Greyjoy, Balon's older brother, a clever and mysterious pirate who has returned from years of exile and travel, who finally wins the kingsmoot. Euron promises to conquer Westeros using dragons and old magic, charming the Ironborn with his bold vision and dark appeal, and is chosen as their new king.
Aeron Damphair's Discontent
Aeron 'Damphair' Greyjoy, a religious Drowned Priest and brother to Balon, Victarion, and Euron, is deeply troubled by Euron's return and his disrespectful ways. He sees Euron as an unholy and dangerous figure, a threat to the traditional ways of the Drowned God. Aeron uses his influence among the Ironborn to speak against Euron's claim and calls for a kingsmoot to choose a new king, believing that the Drowned God would never bless such a wicked man. He sees Euron's promises of conquest and magic as unholy and a departure from the true path of the Ironborn, setting up a dramatic confrontation at the kingsmoot.
Samwell Tarly's Journey to the Citadel
Jon Snow assigns Samwell Tarly to take Maester Aemon, Gilly, and her baby (who is secretly Mance Rayder's son) to Oldtown to train as a maester at the Citadel. Their difficult ship journey is full of danger and hardship. Maester Aemon's health quickly worsens, and he dies at sea, leaving Sam heartbroken. During the trip, Sam has to face the harsh realities of the world beyond the Wall, including disease, starvation, and others' prejudices. He struggles with his own perceived fear but finally shows courage and cleverness in protecting Gilly and the baby, fulfilling his promise to Jon and starting his own learning path.
Dorne's Vengeance
In Dorne, Princess Arianne Martell, annoyed by her uncle Doran's careful rule, plans with her closest friends to crown Myrcella Baratheon, Tommen's sister, as queen of Westeros. She believes that Dornish law says the oldest child inherits, regardless of gender, and seeks to get revenge for her murdered aunt Elia and uncle Oberyn. Her plan, called the 'Princessmaker' scheme, involves taking Myrcella away to be crowned. However, Prince Doran, who knew of her plans through his spies, steps in, stopping the plot and revealing his own long-term, more subtle plans for revenge against the Lannisters, which involve Aegon Targaryen.
The Faith Militant Resurgent
To strengthen her power and gain popular support, Cersei Lannister unwisely rearms the Faith Militant, an old military order of the Faith of the Seven that had been disbanded centuries ago. She believes this will give her a loyal force to counter the Tyrells and other enemies. However, the newly powerful High Septon, known as the High Sparrow, proves to be honest and fiercely independent. He begins to enforce the Faith's laws strictly, investigating corruption and sin among the nobility. This decision badly backfires on Cersei when the High Sparrow, acting on solid accusations, has her arrested for fornication, incest, and treason, leading to her imprisonment and the demand for a trial by combat.
Arya's Training in Braavos
Arya Stark arrives in Braavos and finds the House of Black and White, the temple of the Many-Faced God. She begins her difficult and confusing training to become a Faceless Man, learning to give up her identity, lie, observe, and eventually, to kill. She acts as 'Cat of the Canals,' selling oysters and clams, and practices living as 'no one.' Her training involves learning different languages, developing her senses, and enduring physical and mental challenges. While she tries to leave her past, the names on her kill list stay in her memory, making her change into a truly anonymous assassin harder.
The Kraken's Feast
After being crowned King of the Iron Islands, Euron Crow's Eye immediately begins to secure his power through terror and conquest. He launches raids along the Shield Islands and the Reach, looting and taking castles. He then reveals his main goal: to sail to Slaver's Bay and claim Daenerys Targaryen and her dragons, planning to use them to conquer Westeros. He sends his brother Victarion Greyjoy, Lord Captain of the Iron Fleet, to do this, despite Victarion's deep hatred for Euron. Victarion, wanting glory and revenge against his brother, unwillingly sails eastward, taking a mysterious horn, the Dragonbinder, with him.
Samwell at the Citadel
Samwell Tarly, with Gilly and the baby, finally reaches Oldtown and the Citadel, the old place of learning for maesters. He presents Maester Aemon's will and his own wish to become a maester. However, his welcome is not as easy as he hoped. The Archmaesters are doubtful and dismissive, especially given his background as a Night's Watch brother. He is given minor tasks and struggles to get access to more advanced knowledge. Despite the problems, Sam is determined to learn, driven by the urgent threat from the Others and the need to understand how to fight them, hinting at the vast, unused knowledge within the Citadel's walls.
Cersei's Walk of Atonement
Imprisoned by the Faith, Cersei Lannister suffers weeks of hardship and questioning. Desperate for release, she admits to some smaller sins, but refuses to admit to incest or regicide. The High Septon, however, demands more. Before her trial by combat, she is forced to do a Walk of Atonement through the streets of King's Landing. Stripped naked and with her hair cut, she endures the jeers, insults, and filth of the common people. This public shame is a deep and scarring experience for the proud queen. She is eventually returned to the Red Keep, waiting for her trial, with Robert Strong, a monstrous, silent knight, chosen as her champion, leaving her future uncertain.
Principal Figures
Cersei Lannister
Protagonist/Antagonist
The Queen Regent of the Seven Kingdoms, driven by paranoia and a fierce desire for power.
Cersei is the twin sister of Jaime Lannister and the mother of King Tommen. Following her father Tywin's death, she seizes control of the regency, determined to rule in her own right. She is cunning, ambitious, and deeply paranoid, seeing enemies everywhere, particularly in the Tyrells. Her love for her children, especially Tommen, is fierce but often misguided. She lacks her father's political acumen and surrounds herself with sycophants, leading to a series of disastrous decisions. Her greatest weakness is her pride and her inability to trust anyone outside her immediate family, coupled with a growing alcoholism.
Relationships: Jaime Lannister (Twin brother and lover, a deeply complicated and deteriorating relationship.); Tommen Baratheon (Son, whom she fiercely protects and seeks to control.); Margaery Tyrell (Rival for power and influence, object of Cersei's intense hatred.); Tywin Lannister (Deceased father, whose shadow she struggles to escape and whose approval she craved.)
Jaime Lannister
Protagonist
The Kingslayer, Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, grappling with his identity and honor.
Jaime is Cersei's twin brother and lover. Having lost his sword hand, he is forced to re-evaluate his identity, moving beyond his reputation as the 'Kingslayer' and a skilled warrior. He embarks on a journey through the Riverlands, resolving conflicts and trying to uphold his Kingsguard vows. He is increasingly disillusioned with Cersei's manipulative nature and her self-serving ambition. His character is marked by a growing sense of honor and a desire to do what is right, contrasting sharply with his earlier, more cynical persona. He struggles with the weight of his past actions and the expectations placed upon him.
Relationships: Cersei Lannister (Twin sister and lover, a relationship that is slowly but irrevocably breaking.); Brienne of Tarth (Unlikely companion and a catalyst for his moral awakening, bound by an oath.); Tyrion Lannister (Younger brother, whom he helped escape, complicating his feelings of familial loyalty.)
Brienne of Tarth
Protagonist
The Maid of Tarth, a formidable warrior on a quest to find Sansa Stark.
Brienne is a tall, powerfully built woman who defies traditional gender roles, aspiring to be a true knight. She is fiercely loyal, honorable, and unwavering in her commitments, often to her own detriment. Gifted with Oathkeeper by Jaime Lannister, she embarks on a solemn quest to find Sansa Stark, facing prejudice, hardship, and the brutal realities of a war-torn land. Despite her physical prowess, she is often naive about the complexities of the world and struggles with her own self-doubt. Her journey is a testament to her enduring sense of duty and her unwavering moral compass.
Relationships: Jaime Lannister (The man who gave her a quest and a sword, whom she respects despite his past.); Podrick Payne (Her squire, whom she initially dismisses but grows to protect and care for.); Sansa Stark (The object of her quest, whom she is sworn to protect.)
Samwell Tarly
Protagonist
A timid steward of the Night's Watch sent to the Citadel to become a maester.
Samwell is a kind-hearted, intelligent, but often cowardly member of the Night's Watch. He is Jon Snow's closest friend and confidant. Tasked with taking Maester Aemon, Gilly, and the infant Mance Rayder to Oldtown, Sam embarks on a perilous journey that forces him to mature and find inner strength. He is a scholar at heart, deeply valuing knowledge and books, and his journey to the Citadel represents his best chance to make a meaningful contribution to the fight against the Others. Despite his fears, he demonstrates surprising resilience and loyalty to those he cares about.
Relationships: Jon Snow (Best friend and brother of the Night's Watch, who trusts him with a vital mission.); Gilly (A Wildling woman he protects and cares for, developing deep affection.); Maester Aemon (Mentor and friend, whose death deeply affects Sam.)
Arya Stark
Protagonist
A Stark daughter training to become a Faceless Man in Braavos.
Arya is the youngest Stark daughter, fierce, independent, and unwilling to conform to traditional feminine roles. Having endured immense trauma and loss, she arrives in Braavos seeking to become 'no one' and train as an assassin with the Faceless Men. She is driven by a deep desire for vengeance against those who wronged her family, carrying a mental list of names. Her training involves shedding her identity, learning to lie and observe, and developing her senses. Despite her efforts to become 'no one,' her past and her longing for justice continue to shape her actions.
Relationships: The Kindly Man (Her mentor and guide in the House of Black and White, teaching her the ways of the Faceless Men.); Nymeria (Her direwolf, symbolic of her wild, untamed nature, encountered in a dream.)
Euron Greyjoy
Antagonist
Balon Greyjoy's exiled, enigmatic, and dangerous brother, who returns to claim the Seastone Chair.
Euron 'Crow's Eye' is Balon Greyjoy's older brother, a notorious pirate and raider who has returned from years of exile and sailing the world. He is cunning, charismatic, and utterly ruthless, with a dark, unsettling aura. Euron possesses an unsettling knowledge of ancient magic and claims to have traveled to exotic, dangerous lands. He is driven by a thirst for power and a desire to conquer Westeros using dragons and dark arts. His mind is as twisted as his smile, and he is capable of extreme cruelty and manipulation, making him a formidable and terrifying force.
Relationships: Balon Greyjoy (Deceased brother, whose death is suspicious and attributed to Euron by some.); Victarion Greyjoy (Brother, whom he deeply wronged and manipulates into doing his bidding.); Aeron Greyjoy (Brother and Drowned Priest, who vehemently opposes Euron's rule.)
Arianne Martell
Supporting
Princess of Dorne, who plots to crown Myrcella Baratheon.
Arianne is the eldest child of Prince Doran Martell and heir to Sunspear. She is beautiful, intelligent, and fiercely proud, but also impulsive and often underestimates her father's cunning. Frustrated by her father's perceived inaction following the deaths of Elia and Oberyn, she schemes to crown Myrcella Baratheon queen of Westeros, hoping to ignite a new war and secure Dorne's revenge. She is driven by a strong sense of justice for her family and a desire to prove her worth as a leader, but her impatience often leads her into dangerous situations.
Relationships: Doran Martell (Father, whose cautious nature she misinterprets as weakness, leading to conflict.); Myrcella Baratheon (The innocent pawn in Arianne's political machinations.)
Victarion Greyjoy
Supporting
Lord Captain of the Iron Fleet, a brutal and honorable Ironborn warrior.
Victarion is Balon Greyjoy's younger brother, a formidable warrior and commander of the Iron Fleet. He is a devout follower of the Drowned God, known for his strength, loyalty, and straightforward, brutal nature. He is less cunning than his brothers Euron and Balon, but possesses a strong sense of duty and honor, albeit by Ironborn standards. He harbors a deep hatred for Euron due to past wrongs. Despite his personal feelings, he is bound by the outcome of the kingsmoot and reluctantly sails east on Euron's command, driven by a desire for glory and a thirst for revenge.
Relationships: Euron Greyjoy (Brother, whom he despises for past betrayals and current blasphemies.); Asha Greyjoy (Niece, whom he respects but ultimately does not support for the Seastone Chair.)
Podrick Payne
Supporting
Tyrion Lannister's former squire, now squire to Brienne of Tarth.
Podrick is a shy, unassuming, and loyal young man. After Tyrion Lannister's escape, Podrick pledges himself to Brienne of Tarth and accompanies her on her quest to find Sansa Stark. Despite his inexperience in combat and his timid nature, he proves to be a dedicated and surprisingly resourceful companion. He is often underestimated by others, but his unwavering loyalty and quiet determination make him a valuable asset to Brienne, slowly growing in confidence and skill throughout their arduous journey.
Relationships: Brienne of Tarth (His new mistress, whom he serves with unwavering loyalty.); Tyrion Lannister (Former master, whom he admired and served faithfully.)
Themes & Insights
The Corrupting Nature of Power
This idea is central, mainly seen in Cersei Lannister's story. After Tywin's death, Cersei takes power, but her rule is marked by fear, bad decisions, and a desperate fight to stay in control. Her choices, like rearming the Faith Militant and appointing incompetent flatterers, lead to her downfall. Her wish for total power blinds her to good advice and real threats, making her a tyrannical and self-destructive ruler. The Ironborn's kingsmoot also shows this, with Euron's ruthless ambition overshadowing Asha's and Victarion's more moderate claims, showing how power is often taken by the most cunning and morally corrupt.
“When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die. There is no middle ground.”
The Aftermath of War and Its Toll
The book clearly shows the terrible results of the War of the Five Kings, even after the main battles have stopped. Brienne's journey through the Riverlands makes this clear, as she sees widespread hunger, lawlessness, and the lasting harm done to common people. Villages are burned, people starve, and crime is common. Jaime Lannister also sees this destruction, forcing him to face the human cost of the conflicts he was part of. The suffering of common people and the moral decay that follows long conflict highlight the grim truth that winning a war often brings only a different kind of suffering.
“A man who has lost his family and his home has nothing left to lose.”
Identity and Transformation
Several characters struggle with who they are and change a lot. Jaime Lannister, having lost his sword hand, has to redefine himself beyond his fighting skill and his controversial title of 'Kingslayer.' He tries to embody the honor of a Kingsguard. Arya Stark's whole story is about giving up her identity as Arya Stark to become 'no one' in the House of Black and White, yet her personal revenges constantly pull her back to her past. Samwell Tarly, the timid 'Lord of Tarly,' tries to become a maester, finding courage and purpose in his studies. These journeys show the struggle to match past selves with current situations and future hopes.
“A man must be no one.”
Justice vs. Vengeance
This idea is especially strong in Dorne and with Arya Stark. Arianne Martell's plan to crown Myrcella comes from a wish for revenge for her murdered aunt Elia and uncle Oberyn, believing it is the only way to get justice. Prince Doran, however, shows a more patient, long-term strategy for justice that he sees as more effective and less self-destructive. Arya's training with the Faceless Men comes from her burning wish for revenge against those on her list, blurring the lines between impersonal justice and personal payback. The book looks at the destructive cycle that revenge can create versus the often slow and unsatisfying path of true justice.
“Vengeance. Justice. Fire and blood.”
The Nature of Faith and Religion
The return of the Faith of the Seven as a political and military force is a major idea. Cersei's choice to rearm the Faith Militant badly backfires, as the High Sparrow, a truly pious and convinced figure, uses his new power to challenge the corrupt nobility, including Cersei herself. The Drowned God religion of the Iron Islands also plays a big part, with Aeron Damphair's religious opposition to Euron's disrespectful ways. The idea explores how faith can be a tool for political manipulation, a source of true moral authority, or a cause for fanaticism, showing its complex and often conflicting influence on society.
“The gods are not mocked. They are not mocked by pious words or prayers, but by deeds.”
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
Prophecy
Foreshadowing future events and influencing character actions.
Prophecies, particularly the 'valonqar' prophecy given to Cersei by Maggy the Frog, heavily influence her decisions and fuel her paranoia. The prophecy foretells her downfall at the hands of a 'little brother,' leading her to suspect Tyrion and later, even Jaime. This device creates dramatic irony and suspense, as readers are aware of a predetermined fate that Cersei actively tries to avoid, often exacerbating the very circumstances that lead to its fulfillment. It shapes her character's descent into madness and provides a framework for understanding her increasingly desperate actions.
The MacGuffin: Dragonbinder
A mysterious horn believed to control dragons.
Dragonbinder is a magical horn brought back by Euron Greyjoy, which he claims can bind dragons to the will of its user. This artifact serves as a powerful MacGuffin, driving much of the Ironborn's plotline. Euron uses its promise to win the kingsmoot and then sends Victarion to Slaver's Bay to claim Daenerys's dragons using it. Its true power and the cost of its use are shrouded in mystery, creating immense suspense and raising the stakes for the Ironborn's eastward journey. It represents a potential game-changer in the war for Westeros, adding a significant element of fantasy and ancient magic to the narrative.
The POV Chapter Structure
Told through rotating limited third-person perspectives.
Like previous books in the series, 'A Feast for Crows' utilizes a rotating limited third-person perspective, with each chapter focusing on a single character's viewpoint. This device allows readers to delve deep into the thoughts, motivations, and experiences of various characters across different regions of Westeros and beyond. It provides a multifaceted view of the political landscape, personal struggles, and unfolding events, often revealing conflicting information or hidden agendas. This structure creates suspense, allows for dramatic reveals, and prevents readers from having a complete, objective understanding of the overarching plot, mirroring the fragmented nature of the war itself.
False Identities and Disguises
Characters adopting new personas to achieve their goals or survive.
This device is prominently featured in Arya Stark's storyline as she trains with the Faceless Men, learning to shed her identity and become 'no one.' She adopts the persona of 'Cat of the Canals' to blend into Braavosi society. This theme of false identity is crucial to her transformation and her ability to navigate dangerous situations. It highlights the idea that identity can be fluid and a tool for survival or manipulation, while also exploring the psychological toll of abandoning one's true self. It's a key element in her journey to become a skilled assassin.
A Feast for Crows Quotes
“When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die. There is no middle ground.”
“A man who fights for coin is loyal only to his purse.”
“Words are like arrows, Arianne. Once loosed, you cannot call them back.”
“The gods have been good to me. I have a loving wife, a strong son, and a good friend. What more could a man ask for?”
“I will not make my son a king. I will make him a man.”
“The truest way to change the world is to change a story.”
“It is one thing to take a life, quite another to take a soul.”
“The things we love destroy us every time, lad. Remember that.”
“I am a queen, not a sheep.”
“A good captain always goes down with his ship. Or stays aboard to fight until the bitter end.”
“I have been as good a father as I knew how to be. I have protected you, I have provided for you, I have loved you.”
“The world is full of wonders, but it is also full of terrors.”
“We are only human. We make mistakes. We fall. We rise again.”
“There are times when a man must choose. And when he chooses, he must live with the consequences.”
“Fear cuts deeper than swords.”
Quiz
10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.
Question 1
Which character is crowned King of the Iron Islands after the Kingsmoot on Old Wyk?
- Victarion Greyjoy
- Aeron Damphair
- Euron Greyjoy
- Theon Greyjoy
Show answer
C. Euron Greyjoy Euron 'Crow's Eye' Greyjoy returns to the Iron Islands and, through manipulation and promises of conquest, wins the Kingsmoot on Old Wyk, becoming the new King of the Iron Islands.
Question 2
What is Cersei Lannister's primary goal at the beginning of 'A Feast for Crows' regarding her authority in King's Landing?
- To secure an alliance with Dorne through marriage.
- To eliminate all perceived rivals and consolidate her power as Queen Regent.
- To reform the Small Council with loyal, experienced advisors.
- To prepare for a renewed war against Stannis Baratheon.
Show answer
B. To eliminate all perceived rivals and consolidate her power as Queen Regent. Cersei Lannister spends much of the book systematically replacing members of the Small Council and other influential figures with those she believes are loyal to her, often making poor choices driven by paranoia and a desire for absolute control.
Question 3
Where does Brienne of Tarth travel extensively throughout 'A Feast for Crows' in her quest?
- The North, searching for Sansa Stark.
- The Riverlands, searching for Sansa Stark.
- Dorne, searching for Myrcella Baratheon.
- The Vale, searching for Robert Arryn.
Show answer
B. The Riverlands, searching for Sansa Stark. Brienne of Tarth is sent by Jaime Lannister to find Sansa Stark, and her journey takes her through the war-torn Riverlands, encountering various characters and challenges along the way.
Question 4
What is the name of the Maester Samwell Tarly takes with him from Castle Black to Oldtown?
- Maester Aemon
- Maester Cressen
- Maester Luwin
- Maester Pycelle
Show answer
A. Maester Aemon Samwell Tarly is ordered by Jon Snow to take the aged Maester Aemon, Gilly, and her child (who is actually Mance Rayder's son) to Oldtown for safety and for Aemon to seek knowledge about the Others.
Question 5
Which prominent character is revealed to be alive, albeit changed, and leading the Brotherhood Without Banners in 'A Feast for Crows'?
- Beric Dondarrion
- Gendry
- Lady Stoneheart
- Thoros of Myr
Show answer
C. Lady Stoneheart Lady Stoneheart is revealed to be the resurrected (and vengeful) Catelyn Stark, leading the Brotherhood Without Banners in their pursuit of justice against those who wronged her family.
Question 6
What is the primary motivation behind the actions of the Sand Snakes in Dorne during 'A Feast for Crows'?
- To secure Dorne's independence from the Iron Throne.
- To avenge their father, Oberyn Martell, by declaring war on the Lannisters.
- To marry into powerful Westerosi houses to gain influence.
- To support Myrcella Baratheon's claim to the Iron Throne.
Show answer
B. To avenge their father, Oberyn Martell, by declaring war on the Lannisters. The Sand Snakes, Oberyn Martell's bastard daughters, are fiercely dedicated to avenging his death at the hands of Gregor Clegane (and by extension, the Lannisters), pushing for war against the Iron Throne.
Question 7
What 'gift' does Euron Greyjoy claim to have brought back from Valyria, which he uses to influence the Ironborn?
- A hoard of gold and jewels.
- A Valyrian steel sword.
- A dragon horn known as Dragonbinder.
- Ancient sorcerous texts.
Show answer
C. A dragon horn known as Dragonbinder. Euron Greyjoy claims to have journeyed to Valyria and returned with a magical dragon horn called Dragonbinder, which he boasts can control dragons, greatly impressing and terrifying the Ironborn.
Question 8
What is the ultimate fate of Cersei Lannister at the end of her chapters in 'A Feast for Crows'?
- She successfully consolidates her power and rules King's Landing unchallenged.
- She is imprisoned by the Faith Militant and forced to confess her sins.
- She flees King's Landing to join Jaime in the Riverlands.
- She is assassinated by a member of the Small Council.
Show answer
B. She is imprisoned by the Faith Militant and forced to confess her sins. Cersei's hubris and paranoia lead her to empower the Faith Militant, who eventually turn on her. She is arrested and imprisoned in the Great Sept of Baelor, awaiting trial by combat for various charges, including incest and regicide.
Question 9
What specific event occurs in Dorne that leaves Princess Myrcella Baratheon disfigured?
- She is attacked by a wild animal during a hunt.
- She falls from a horse during a riding lesson.
- She is caught in an assassination attempt meant for Prince Doran Martell.
- She is injured during an attempt by Areo Hotah to stop Gerold Dayne's attack.
Show answer
D. She is injured during an attempt by Areo Hotah to stop Gerold Dayne's attack. During an attempt by Gerold 'Darkstar' Dayne to kill Myrcella and spark war, Areo Hotah intervenes. In the struggle, Myrcella is wounded across the face, losing an ear and sustaining severe scarring.
Question 10
What is the primary internal conflict Jaime Lannister grapples with throughout 'A Feast for Crows'?
- His desire to return to King's Landing and reconcile with Cersei.
- His struggle to redefine himself beyond 'Kingslayer' and find honor in his new role as Lord Commander.
- His ambition to claim Casterly Rock for himself.
- His fear of encountering Daenerys Targaryen and her dragons.
Show answer
B. His struggle to redefine himself beyond 'Kingslayer' and find honor in his new role as Lord Commander. Jaime spends the book trying to live up to his new responsibilities as Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, attempting to restore order in the Riverlands, and grappling with his evolving feelings towards Cersei and his own past actions, seeking a more honorable path.
A Feast for Crows FAQ
What is the primary political landscape at the beginning of A Feast for Crows?
At the start of the book, the Lannisters hold the Iron Throne with the child-king Tommen Baratheon, following the deaths of Joffrey Baratheon and Tywin Lannister. Cersei Lannister rules as Queen Regent, attempting to consolidate power amidst a realm weary from the War of the Five Kings, but facing challenges from various factions and her own court.
Who are the main point-of-view characters introduced or focused on in this installment?
A Feast for Crows primarily follows new and returning POVs including Cersei Lannister, Brienne of Tarth, Jaime Lannister, Samwell Tarly, Arya Stark, Sansa Stark (as Alayne Stone), Aeron Damphair, Asha Greyjoy, Areo Hotah, Arys Oakheart, and Victarion Greyjoy. Tyrion Lannister and Daenerys Targaryen, prominent in previous books, are notably absent as POVs, their storylines reserved for A Dance with Dragons.
What major events unfold in the Iron Islands during this book?
The Iron Islands experience a kingsmoot after Balon Greyjoy's death, where Euron Greyjoy, 'Crow's Eye,' returns from exile to claim the Seastone Chair. He defeats his siblings Victarion and Asha, promising to conquer Westeros with dragons and ancient magic, setting a new, ambitious course for the Ironborn.
What is Cersei Lannister's primary goal and how does she attempt to achieve it?
Cersei's main objective is to secure her power as Queen Regent and protect her son, Tommen, from perceived threats, particularly from Margaery Tyrell and the Tyrell influence. She attempts to achieve this through political maneuvering, appointing loyalists, and manipulating religious institutions, ultimately leading to her disastrous confrontation with the Faith.
Where does Samwell Tarly's journey take him and what is his mission?
Samwell Tarly's journey takes him from the Wall, tasked by Jon Snow to escort Maester Aemon, Gilly, and her child to Oldtown. His mission is to train as a maester at the Citadel, hoping to find knowledge that can help combat the Others, while also protecting Gilly and her baby from the dangers of the realm.
What is the significance of the Dornish plotline and the Sand Snakes?
The Dornish plotline focuses on Prince Doran Martell's cautious plans for vengeance against the Lannisters for the deaths of Elia Martell and Oberyn Martell. The Sand Snakes, Oberyn's daughters, are introduced as fierce warriors demanding immediate retribution, creating internal conflict within Dorne regarding the path to justice.
How does Arya Stark's training at the House of Black and White progress?
Arya's training involves shedding her identity and past, learning to lie and deceive, and serving the Many-Faced God. She begins as 'Cat of the Canals,' learning the city and its secrets, before being blinded as part of her initiation into the Faceless Men, a crucial step in her transformation.
What hidden motivations drive Euron Greyjoy's return and his kingsmoot victory?
Euron's motivations are deeply tied to his travels in the smoking ruins of Valyria and his acquisition of dark knowledge and artifacts, like the dragon horn. He seeks not just the Seastone Chair, but ultimate power through magic and conquest, aiming to bend dragons to his will and potentially become a god-like figure.
What is the 'Valonqar' prophecy and how does it influence Cersei's actions?
The 'Valonqar' prophecy, told to a young Cersei by Maggy the Frog, foretells that she will outlive her children and be killed by the 'valonqar,' High Valyrian for 'little brother.' This prophecy deeply influences her paranoia, fueling her hatred for Tyrion and her suspicion of Jaime, shaping many of her destructive decisions.
How does Jaime Lannister's psychological state evolve throughout the book?
Jaime undergoes significant psychological development, moving away from his incestuous obsession with Cersei and embracing his identity as a knight and Lord Commander of the Kingsguard. He grapples with his past sins, seeks redemption through honorable actions, and increasingly prioritizes duty over personal desires, especially after receiving the letter from Cersei.
What psychological impact does Brienne of Tarth's quest have on her?
Brienne's seemingly futile quest to find Sansa Stark, driven by her vow to Catelyn Stark, tests her resilience and idealism. She faces constant rejection, violence, and disillusionment, forcing her to confront the harsh realities of a war-torn Westeros and challenging her unwavering belief in chivalry and honor.
How does Sansa Stark's time in the Vale under Petyr Baelish affect her psychological development?
Under Petyr Baelish's tutelage as 'Alayne Stone,' Sansa learns to navigate courtly intrigue, deception, and the art of manipulation. She sheds some of her naive idealism, becoming more cynical and cunning, while also grappling with her complicity in Baelish's schemes and the loss of her identity.
Is Cersei Lannister a tragic figure or simply a villain?
Cersei can be interpreted as a tragic figure due to her upbringing, the patriarchal constraints placed upon her, and the Valonqar prophecy, which fuels her paranoia and ultimately leads to her downfall. However, her deliberate cruelty, self-serving ambition, and destructive actions also firmly establish her as a villain, making her a complex character open to debate.
What is the deeper meaning behind the title 'A Feast for Crows'?
The title metaphorically refers to the aftermath of war, where various factions, like 'crows,' converge to pick apart the remnants of the fallen realm, vying for power and resources. It also alludes to the predatory nature of many characters, such as Euron Greyjoy, and the grim reality that death often precedes new conflicts, with the victors feasting on the spoils.
How does the structure of A Feast for Crows, splitting the narrative with A Dance with Dragons, impact the reading experience and thematic focus?
The split narrative allows for a deeper dive into specific regions and characters, providing a more intimate look at the political and social aftermath of the war in Westeros, while deferring the Eastern and Northern storylines. This creates a sense of foreboding, focusing on the decay and emerging conflicts within the Seven Kingdoms, while building anticipation for the reunion of plotlines.
What is the significance of the various religious movements, like the Faith Militant, gaining power?
The resurgence of the Faith Militant, encouraged by Cersei in her bid to undermine the Tyrells, signifies a shift in power dynamics and a return to more fundamentalist religious fervor. This movement, with its emphasis on piety and justice, quickly becomes an uncontrollable force that challenges both the crown and nobility, reflecting the instability of the realm and the dangers of wielding religious power.
To what extent is Brienne's quest for Sansa a commentary on the ideals of chivalry in Westeros?
Brienne's unwavering commitment to her oath and her pursuit of Sansa, despite facing constant ridicule, danger, and the grim realities of the war-torn landscape, serves as a poignant commentary on the fading ideals of chivalry. Her journey highlights the stark contrast between romanticized notions of knighthood and the brutal, often dishonorable, truth of the world, suggesting that true honor is rare and often unrewarded.
How does the introduction of the Citadel and its maesters contribute to the broader themes of knowledge and power?
The Citadel, as the center of learning and the training ground for maesters, represents the accumulation and control of knowledge in Westeros. Samwell's arrival there highlights the potential for knowledge to be a powerful weapon against the existential threats facing the realm, but also hints at the maesters' own hidden agendas and the political influence they wield through their unique position.
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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