Game of Thrones enthusiasts have a fresh spin-off to anticipate with A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, a new HBO series that draws significant inspiration from real medieval history. This prequel, distinct from its predecessors, follows the adventures of Ser Duncan the Tall, known as 'Dunk', portrayed by Peter Claffey, a hedge knight of humble origins, and his young squire Aegon Targaryen, or 'Egg', played by Dexter Sol Ansell.
A Shift in Focus from Royalty to Common Heroes
Unlike the aristocratic and often royal protagonists of Game of Thrones and its existing prequel House of the Dragon, which centre on the fierce competition for the Iron Throne, this series marks a deliberate tonal departure. Dunk's lowborn background offers a unique perspective, focusing on more modest knightly figures rather than the noble families of Westeros.
Ensuring Historical Authenticity
Showrunner Ira Parker aimed to root the new series in medieval authenticity, learning from past criticisms of historical dramas. To achieve this, Dr. Hugh Doherty, a Lecturer in Medieval History at the University of East Anglia, was enlisted as a historical advisor. This marks his first involvement with the Game of Thrones universe, though he has become a recognised expert in medieval studies.
In an interview with the Daily Mail, Dr. Doherty emphasised the importance of detail, stating: 'These things are always more believable if they have a texture, if they have detail. In many ways, Game of Thrones, House of The Dragon and A Knight Of Seven Kingdoms, they're often more accurate in their depiction of medieval politics and warfare than, say, TV series that are claiming to present historical events.'
He specifically criticised the BBC's King & Conqueror, calling it 'disastrous' and 'pretty inaccurate' in its portrayal of medieval life, contrasting it with the rich atmosphere of the Game of Thrones franchise.
Real-Life Historical Influences
Dr. Doherty highlighted how the series incorporates genuine medieval elements, such as the tournament depicted, which he compared to the epic jousting event at St-Inglevert in 1390. This historical tournament lasted nearly five weeks, showcasing remarkable endurance, and serves as a template for the show's authenticity.
He praised the focus on lower-born heroes, noting: 'I think it is a very good idea for [the show] to concentrate on more modest knightly heroes. Warfare offered many poor, but ambitious and talented men a chance to secure enrichment and promotion. The adventures of the landless hero was even the stuff of legend in the Middle Ages—and formed an important component of many tales and poems.'
Navigating Past Controversies
The new series carries high expectations, partly due to the controversy surrounding the conclusion of Game of Thrones in 2019. Many fans felt the final season was rushed and deviated from George R. R. Martin's books, leading to a petition that garnered over 1.8 million signatures calling for a remake.
Kit Harington, who played Jon Snow, expressed frustration with the petition in the New York Times, saying: 'That genuinely angered me. Like, how dare you? Sorry, that’s just how I feel. I think it was a level of idiocy that can only come about through social media.' He acknowledged the passion behind it but confirmed it was not seriously considered by the creators.
As A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms becomes available for streaming, it aims to captivate audiences with its grounded storytelling and historical depth, offering a fresh take within the beloved fantasy universe.
