A Game of Thrones (Martin) - Discussion Questions

Discussion Questions
We'll add publisher questions if and when they're available; in the meantime, feel free to use our LitLovers talking points to start a discussion for The Game of Thrones...then take off on your own:

1. One of the most compelling elements of George R.R.Martin's epic saga of Song of Ice and Fire is his characterization. He has crafted characters who come alive on the page—they are distinct, complex, and fully inhabited with their own memories and desires. Which characters are you particularly drawn to, admire most, or find particularly intriguing? Talk about the Stark family, especially Ned and Cat and also their children.

2. The book opens with Ned Stark beheading a young man for desertion. What do you think of his undertaking the execution himself? Why was no mercy shown?

3. (Follow-up to Question 1) Consider in particular how the Stark children grow and develop from when you first meet them in the beginning of the novel to the end.

4. King Robert makes a grand entrance into Winterfell. What were your initial impressions of the King and his retinue, including Cersei, Jamie, and Tyrion Lanister? What is the first indication of young Prince Joffrey's true nature? How would you describe him?

5. Metaphorically, what does it suggest that winter is approaching and is to last for decades.

6. Daenerys Targaryen has one of the most fascinating trajectories in the book (and in the entire series). Trace her development, from being under the thrall of her brother to her marriage to Khal Drogo. What are her initial feelings toward her husband and how do those feelings change? What does her survival of the funeral pyre and the birth of the dragons suggest, symbolically, about Daenerys?

7. Tyrion gradually becomes a central figure. How would you describe him and his position in the Lannister family?

8. Jon Snow also grows as a character when he goes to the Wall. How does he win the trust and admiration of the men? What does it suggest about the kind of young man he is? His loyalty is torn between his vows as a member of the Night Watch and his love for Robb Stark. What do you think of his decision to desert?

9. Originally, it seems readers are meant to take the side of the Stark family. But as the story develops, do you find yourself sympathizing with some members of the Lannister family...or other characters you might not have expected to like?

10. (Follow-up to Question 9)  Martin uses multiple viewpoints, allowing characters to be explored from different perspectives. Does that make a difference in how you have come to view them? In other words, is there a straight-line "good and evil" axis in this story?

11. What is the significance of the title? Why is winning the throne "a game"? What does the book suggest about the desire for power? Does anyone wish to use it for good? Or is the desire for power simply a matter of self-aggrandizement?

12. Talk about the medieval world Martin creates. How would you describe its culture, class divisions, living conditions, treatment of people, and the tournaments and trappings of chivalry for the wealthy? Does it feel real, if not realistic? Much of the writing is similar in style to historical fiction, but Martin has also added a layer of supernaturalism. Do the fantastic elements enhance the tale for you? Or do you find them unnecessary?

(Questions by LitLovers. Please feel free to use them, online and off, with attribution. Thanks.)

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