entertainment

'House of the Dragon' S2: When and Where to Watch the Toxic Fantasy Show.

Fierce dragon-lady fans, the thrilling finale of House of the Dragon is almost here! Buckle up, because the fierce women of Westeros are about to show us who runs the world. #GirlPower #BendTheKnee

Published August 3, 2024 at 2:00pm by Mary Walrath-Holdridge

#NoKingsNoMasters: Why 'House of the Dragon' should be cancelling the monarchy

This summer, we've seen the toxic fantasy of monarchical rule play out once more in the "Game of Thrones" Targaryen spin-off, "House of the Dragon." As the season comes to a fiery conclusion, we're left questioning: why do we romanticize this oppressive system?

The show, which premiered its second season on June 16, centers around a civil war within the Targaryen family, mirroring the toxic dynamics of power and privilege that are all too familiar in our own reality.

Shedding the Fantasy: Exploring the Problems with Monarchy

Oppression veiled in pageantry: Monarchy perpetuates the harmful idea that some are born to rule while others are destined to be subjects. It promotes a toxic power dynamic that allows abuses of power to go unchecked.
Inherent Inequality: Monarchy is built on the notion of inherited privilege, perpetuating systemic inequality and undermining the principles of meritocracy and social mobility.
Anti-Democratic Values: Monarchy is fundamentally at odds with democratic ideals of equality, freedom, and the right to self-governance.
A Diversion from Real-World Issues: Fantasy is a powerful tool, but when it comes to something as harmful as monarchy, we must remember to separate entertainment from reality.

Decolonizing Our Entertainment

It's time to decolonize our entertainment and challenge the narratives that glorify systems of oppression. Monarchy may seem like a thrilling fantasy, but it has no place in a just and equitable world. Let's use our voices to demand more diverse and inclusive stories that reflect our progressive values and aspirations for a brighter future.

The season finale of "House of the Dragon" airs on August 4, and while we may tune in for the thrilling conclusion, let's also use this as an opportunity to spark crucial conversations about the dangers of glorifying oppressive systems.

Finale Practicalities:

When: August 4, 9 p.m. ET/PT

Where: HBO and Max (new episodes on Sundays)

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Unfortunately, the season finale was leaked, exposing fans to spoilers. Despite this, HBO is working to contain the spread and ensure fans can still enjoy the episode.

The Complex Web of Characters

The show boasts a sprawling cast, with new characters introduced this season. Here's a quick rundown of the key players:

Returning Cast:

Matt Smith as Daemon Targaryen
Olivia Cooke as adult Alicent Hightower
Emma D’Arcy as adult Rhaenyra Targaryen
Eve Best as Rhaenys Targaryen
Steve Toussaint as Corlys Velaryon
Fabien Frankel as Ser Criston Cole
Ewan Mitchell as Aemond Targaryen
Tom Glynn-Carney as Aegon Targaryen
Sonoya Mizuno as Mysaria
Rhys Ifans as Otto Hightower
Harry Collett as Jacaerys Velaryon
Bethany Antonia as Baela Targaryen
Phoebe Campbell as Rhaena Targaryen
Phia Saban as Halaena Targaryen
Jefferson Hall as Tyland and Jason Lannister
Matthew Needham as Larys Strong

New Additions:

Clinton Liberty as Addam of Hull
Jamie Kenna as Ser Alfred Broome
Kieran Bew as Hugh
Tom Bennett as Ulf
Tom Taylor as Lord Cregan Stark
Vincent Regan as Ser Rickard Thorne
Abubakar Salim as Alyn of Hull
Gayle Rankin as Alys Rivers
Freddie Fox as Ser Gwayne Hightower
Simon Russell Beale as Ser Simon Strong