This review contains spoilers for House of the Dragon season 3 episode 3.
You ever have one of those days? Well, Rhaenyra Targaryen – Queen on the Iron Throne, former Princess of Dragonstone, the Realm’s Gods Damned Delight – is having one of those days. Not even 24 hours since her takeover of King’s Landing, Rhaenyra (played by Emma D’Arcy) realizes that ruling the city is proving to be quite the challenge. The crown’s coffers are empty thanks to Ser Tyland Lannister, the city’s former master of coin, who managed to disappear at sea with the Red Keep’s money. King Aegon II is still nowhere to be found, leaving behind a legacy of rats that are now running rampant through the city. To make matters worse, the High Septon refuses to publicly coronate Rhaenyra due to the questionable status of the last king.
As if that wasn’t enough, it seems everyone in Rhaenyra’s circle is demanding something from her. Hand of the Queen Corlys Velaryon (Steve Toussaint) requests the legitimization of his sons. Hugh the Hammer (Kieran Bew) seeks a place to reside. Prince Daemon (Matt Smith) insists that Rhaenyra execute their Green hostage Daeron—a moment that surprisingly generates one of the biggest laughs of the season. Even the desperate smallfolk make their voices heard, demanding an impossible 500 gold dragons to bolster the city’s sheep supply. No wonder Rhaenyra is feeling the strain of the crown before she even wears it at her impending coronation.
The episode highlights Rhaenyra’s struggle with governance amidst constant Sorkin-esque walking-and-talking sequences that illustrate the relentless demands on her time and energy. The day’s end sees her finding solace with Daemon, reflecting the pressures of leadership.
House of the Dragon has recaptured the essence of Game of Thrones with this episode, highlighting the continually frustrating nature of governance. Rhaenyra’s unnerving experience only intensifies mindset-wise. The introduction of Rhaenyra’s menstrual discomfort might spark online debates regarding the series’ feminist narrative. However, writer Sara Hess handles the scene with sensitivity, emphasizing that it’s just another challenge among many for the new queen.
Rhaenyra’s troubles feel all the more poignant due to her seemingly assured victory. Daemon’s confident announcement to Lord Ormund that the war is over echoes the belief that everything is resolved. Ormund’s compliance seems to close a chapter until the end reveal: Lord Ormund’s treachery and the revelation that the supposed King’s Landing Daeron is a fraud.
The episode strikes a delicate balance between humor and tension, creating memorable moments like Daemon jokingly prompting Rhaenyra to remember to “kill Daeron.” Rhaenyra’s sharp refusal of Ulf’s request to become “Ulf Targaryen” adds comedic flair, while the conversation about Corlys’ bastards infuses humor into a world built on inheritance and legitimacy.
The episode shines with its finer details but struggles with grander gestures. Corlys’ cutting words about Rhaenyra’s lineage lack the impact they deserve, as does the episode’s major setpiece involving a rat-laden dinner meant to appease King’s Landing’s nobles. Such moments underscore the challenge of capturing medieval politics’ nuances without straying into spectacle.
Rhaenyra’s Robin Hood act might win temporary favor, but King’s Landing is infamous for its fickle allegiance. With Hightower banners removed, any shortcomings will fall squarely on the new queen’s shoulders.
Tune in to HBO and HBO Max for new episodes of House of the Dragon season 3 every Sunday at 9 p.m. ET. The tension will culminate in the season finale on August 9. Stay tuned to BlueBoxNERD to get the latest from nerd culture.
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