Playing The Game Of Thrones: Power, Rulership and Civil Strife

Five Kings and Counting: Teaching Medieval Kingship Using Game of Thrones

This page examines the changing meanings of kingship in the Middle Ages using a case study approach, with examples drawn from history and from Game of Thrones. Examining how medieval kingship evolved over time and how Martin draws on various types of kingship for Game of Thrones, instructors will learn several techniques for teaching students about medieval kingship using Game of Thrones.

Too Much Power: Overmighty Subjects in Game of Thrones and the Middle Ages

Overmighty subjects caused a large problem for monarchs simply because of the power they wielded. This subject can be seen in many different periods throughout the Middle Ages, as well as in Game of Thrones, drawing a parallel between the fictional and non-fictional worlds. Using Game of Thrones to teach the concept of an overmighty subject simplifies the subject and gives the students an opportunity to see an overmighty subject in action, offering a more accessible approach to the medieval sources.

Feudalism and Bastard Feudalism

The complex relationships that makes up feudalism are not easy to define into a neat package. There are many variations throughout the world and can impact society on a wide scale if it collapses.  Within Game of Thrones we see many aspects of this within the War of the Five Kings.

The Merits of Exploring Historical Parallels in Game of Thrones: Tommen and Louis IX

Beginning with a handful of surface similarities, this is one of many case studies that afford a rich and complex approach to teaching medievalism and the medieval period using popular culture.