The spirit of Westeros is alive and well in HBO’s adaptation of “Game of Thrones” writer George R.R Martin’s prequel book “Fire and Blood.” 

“Disappointment” doesn’t go far enough to describe how many — including myself — felt about the last two seasons of “Game of Thrones.” Yet for those who remember early seasons of the show, “House of the Dragon” presents a new look into Martin’s fantasy world that is a welcome return to form. 

Showrunners Ryan Condal and Miguel Sapochnik — directors of some of the best episodes of “Game of Thrones” — have tapped into the well of earlier show’s success, while learning from the mistakes it made. The dialogue is snappy, the costuming and set design is exquisite, and the political intrigue is as polished as ever. 

“House of the Dragon” tells a story about royal succession focused around Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen, the daughter of King Viserys I. The series takes place nearly 200 years before the events of “Game of Thrones,” and is set during the height of Targaryen rule of Westeros. 

Patriarchy plays a central role in the story. The prologue shows us how patriarchal the society of Westeros is. In this scene, King Viserys’ grandfather, King Jaehaerys, calls all the lords of the realm to a meeting to decide who should succeed him.  

The two contenders for the throne are Princess Rhaenys and Prince Viserys, both grandchildren of Jaehaerys, through two of his sons. While Rhaenys has the better claim, the lords decide to make Viserys the heir to avoid crowning a queen. 

This injustice is echoed a generation later, with a succession crisis over who should succeed Viserys — his daughter Rhaenyra whom he has named heir, or her younger half-brother Aegon whose sex gives him a better claim under Westerosi law. 

This first season ends with war finally bubbling up between the two sides — those who support Rhaenyra (the Blacks) and Aegon’s supporters (the Greens). With dragons on both sides of this civil war, this “Dance of Dragons” is sure to earn its name. 

Hopefully we will not have to wait too long for Season 2, which is bound to be filled with more dragons, more political backstabbing, and more great performances. If Paddy Considine does not win an Emmy for his portrayal of Viserys I this season, I will riot. 

One thing we can be sure of is that the future of “House of the Dragon” will be filled with fire and blood. #TeamRhaenyra

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