The Riverlands: Currents of Conquest and Contention

05/29/24 • 20 min

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the Riverlands, the central region from George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series. The episode delves into the strategic and agricultural importance of the area's waterways, including the Red Fork, Blue Fork, Green Fork, and the Trident. Also featured are significant locations like Riverrun and Harrenhal. This conversation on the Riverlands provides a geographical and historical background, emphasizing the lack of natural barriers and the resulting frequent conflicts. Its many rivers contribute to the fertile land and bustling trade.

This episode also covers the history of the region, once known as the Kingdom of Rivers and Hills. It touches on the region's history of warfare and the different houses that have ruled over it, from the First Men to the Andals, and eventually House Tully under Targaryen rule.

The episode highlights House Tully's elevation to Lord Paramount of the Trident by Aegon the Conqueror.

The episode includes a discussion of the longstanding feud between House Blackwood and House Bracken, two ancient and rival houses in the Riverlands. It touches on their participation in significant events like the War of the Five Kings and their alliance during the Andal invasion.

The analysis shifts to the infamous House Frey, led by Walder Frey. The episode scrutinizes Walder Frey's questionable loyalty which predates the Red Wedding,

Throughout the episode, the podcast uses sources from the original novels, supplemental texts by Martin, and contributions from fans on Westeros.org. The second chapter focuses on the Tullys and their significant role, along with the histories of House Blackwood and House Bracken. The final chapter offers a concise look at House Frey's complex position in Westerosi politics.

The podcast concludes by hinting at the next episode, which promises to explore a region shaped by the historic Dance of the Dragons and the influence of the Iron Throne. Listeners are invited to visit the show's website for detailed show notes and are warned of potential spoilers if they choose to research the topic further.

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The episode highlights House Tully's elevation to Lord Paramount of the Trident by Aegon the Conqueror.

The analysis shifts to the infamous House Frey, led by Walder Frey. The episode scrutinizes Walder Frey's questionable loyalty which predates the Red Wedding,

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-westerosi-primer/donations
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Previous Episode

The Iron Islands: Unveiling the Greyjoy Family and Ironborn Traditions

In this episode of the podcast, host Liz does an exploration of the Iron Islands. She delves into the wild and cutthroat culture of the Ironborn. She begins by introducing the geography of the Iron Islands, an archipelago off the western coast of Westeros. She details the challenging living conditions that have shaped the Ironborn into formidable seafarers and raiders. Their unique religious beliefs is centered around the Drowned God. Their societal structure includes the use of thralls and salt wives. Some of their customs stem from Viking traditions and even pirate behavior.

Listeners are then guided through the history of the Ironborn. The history starts with the legendary Grey King. Also discussed is the Kingsmoot, a democratic process unique within the otherwise feudal system of Westeros.

The episode takes a closer look at House Greyjoy, contrasting their representation in "Game of Thrones" with the books. Liz talks the character differences, such as Asha Greyjoy's renaming to Yara for the TV series. Theon Greyjoy's narrative path changes post-season four. Euron Greyjoy's dark and complex persona in the books, including his magical aspirations and the mysterious dragon horn, is discussed. There is even a tantalizing fan theory that connects Euron to the three-eyed raven.

Also included in this episode is the Harlaw family. This family has a long history in the Iron Islands. Their connection to the Greyjoys makes them an important part of the Ironborn/Greyjoy storylines.

Included in this episode are content from "A Wiki of Ice and Fire." They include:

https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Iron_Islands

https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Grey_King

https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/House_Greyjoy

https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/House_Harlaw

https://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Harras_Harlaw

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Next Episode

The Crownlands: The History and Houses of Westeros' Power Center

In this installment of the Westerosi Primer, host Liz delves into the history of the Crownlands, the heart of power in Westeros. The region, initially disputed land between the Riverlands and Stormlands, gained prominence following the Targaryen conquest. The strategic Blackwater Rush and Blackwater Bay are emphasized, as well as the capital, King's Landing.

The narrative traces the early history of the Crownlands, highlighting the shifting landscape of power before the Targaryens reshaped the region. The episode focuses on King's Landing, the continent's largest city, founded by King Aegon the Conqueror. The episode discusses the significance of the Blackwater Rush and the development of King's Landing around its mouth.

This location became central to Westerosi power, with its fortified walls and the City Watch, also known as the Gold Cloaks. The Gold Cloaks, who ensure security, reflects its grandeur and subsequent descent into corruption, particularly under King Robert's reign. Liz notes the historical role of Daemon Targaryen in shaping the City Watch, which unfortunately grew corrupt over time.

King's Landing's three hills, named after Aegon the Conqueror and his sisters, are home to notable landmarks like the Red Keep, the Great Sept of Baelor, and the Dragon Pit. The notorious Flea Bottom slum is also mentioned. Dragonstone, a key location in Targaryen history, receives a brief historical overview, from its establishment by Valyrians to its handover to Stannis Baratheon post-Targaryen rule.

Liz then explores lesser-known Crownland houses, including House Velaryon of Driftmark, known for its naval prowess and marital ties to the Targaryens. Houses Stokeworth and Rosby, due to their proximity to King's Landing, have had a consistent presence at court, though they experience declines by Robert's era. House Celtigar of Claw Isle, with Valyrian roots, is a minor house introduced in House of the Dragon.

Listeners are advised of potential spoilers from the "A Song of Ice and Fire" series and related media like "House of the Dragon." The podcast utilizes resources such as novels, George R.R. Martin's writings, and fan contributions to provide comprehensive insights. Liz warns that this episode won't cover all aspects of the Crownlands due to its extensive history and connection to numerous houses.

The episode concludes with a teaser for the next episode, which will venture to Essos and its diverse cultures, along with some announcements. Liz encourages feedback on thewesterosiprimer.com and invites listeners to share the podcast with friends.

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