Stick Them With The Pointy End: Lessons in Medieval Warfare

The Importance of Medieval Heraldry in ‘Battle of the Bastards’

The sigils of the Westerosi Houses are some of the most prominent visuals of the show Game of Thrones. By using ‘Battle of the Bastards’, students can examine medieval heraldry and learn to recognize its importance in both the Game of Thrones world and medieval culture.

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Medieval Castles and Game of Thrones

George R.R. Martin’s fictional universe allows students to visually engage with the castles and fortifications that his characters inhabit. This visual approach to study can allow students to better understand the design, placement and role of castles and fortifications in the Middle Ages.

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Medieval Warfare and the War of the Five Kings

The world Martin created is deeply rooted within medieval culture and draws many aspirations from it. The War of the Five Kings is a major part of A Song of Ice and Fire and draws on medieval battles along with its technologies.  There are many instances where there are direct comparisons spanning much of the Middle Ages.

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Supply, Transportation and Organization: Military Logistics in Westeros and Medieval Europe

The logistical apparatuses and framework which made medieval warfare
possible are often overlooked in the study of warfare in the Middle Ages. By observing the way that Game of Thrones incorporates logistical concerns into its narrative, students can gain a working knowledge of the behind-the-scenes aspects of medieval warfare and the challenges that were presented for medieval military planners. 

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