Armagnac-Burgundy wars and ASOIaF As discussed in previous posts, Saint George enjoys referencing historical figures and events in ASOIAF. Upon further research, Ive found some incredible parallels between our story and the Armagnac-Burgundy wars also known as the French Wars of the Roses, a series of conflicts France endured between 1407 and 1435. The battles coincided with the already bloody Hundred Years War and the English Wars of the Roses. And here I thought England had suffered greatly. In the Armagnac-Burgundy wars, we find the lion literally fighting the wolf. The Armagnac had chosen the lion for their sigil, Burgundy the wolf. In 1405, following the kidnapping of the dauphin, John of Burgundy and Louis of Orleans became fast enemies. Similarly, when Jaime discovers his brother has been seized, he ambushes Ned. I hear people screaming thats not what really happened. Give me a minute. Obviously, Jaime was nowhere near Ned in the books when he and his men are attacked. But HBOs version, in my opinion, serves the historical reference much better. First there is the obvious need to see both characters confront each other, then there is the direct reference to lions destroying wolves which was depicted in the painting below. Louis assassination in 1407 sparked a series of civil wars fought not only in France but extending as far as England where many houses were allied with the Armagnac house and the Duke. In the show, we see a hesitant Jaime who only wished to confront Ned, not wound him. But the deed is done, nevertheless and he races off, blood still boiling. Ned was not assassinated during the ambush, but his story does take a sad turn. His weakened state provides ample room for vultures to begin picking at his remains. Like Louis, Neds execution sparked a series of battles, turned houses against each other and forced the North into rebellion against the crown. Meanwhile, other lords saw the opportunity to stake their claims as well. With the lions fighting the wolves, the stags slowly gathered their strength as well. Spiders and mockingbirds had a plentiful playground in which to amuse and raise themselves. This could be seen in France as well. With major houses confronting each other, minor lords could navigate unseen. We dont enjoy a deviation from the books nor do we react very well to it. But this one in particular was both essential to the story and was delivered flawlessly in my opinion. Cookie to D & D. Side note: you will notice Louis severed hand.
Posted on: Tue, 14 Oct 2014 13:22:40 +0000
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