The Royal Shakespeare Company has opened a new stage play, Game of Thrones: The Mad King, delving into the lore of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire. The production, which premiered in Stratford-upon-Avon and is slated for a West End transfer, explores events set approximately 15 years before the events of Martin's first novel, expanding on historical moments like the tournament at Harrenhal and the beginnings of Robert's Rebellion.
The play's author, Duncan MacMillan, consulted with Martin to clarify standing questions about the period, while also retaining creative license. This ensures that while much of the narrative aligns with existing texts, some elements offer new interpretations or fill in previously unaddressed mysteries that have long been subjects of fan discussion.
The Tournament at Harrenhal and Robert's Rebellion
The narrative centers on the tournament at Harrenhal, called in 281 AC. The play suggests Crown Prince Rhaegar Targaryen orchestrated the event to garner support for deposing his father, King Aerys II. However, Aerys's presence and his insults towards Robert Baratheon, coupled with Rhaegar's burgeoning connection to Lyanna Stark, derailed these plans. These factors ultimately led to Rhaegar's controversial "abduction" of Lyanna and Robert's subsequent fury, igniting the rebellion.
Rhaegar Targaryen's Portrayal
Contrary to some interpretations, the play presents Rhaegar Targaryen as a complex figure rather than a villain. He is depicted as grappling with the potential hereditary madness of his family and the weight of the Prince That Was Promised prophecy. His moral stance prevents him from resorting to assassination, instead pursuing a path to remove his father for the kingdom's good, though his internal struggles lead to hesitation at critical junctures.
Prophecy and Character Interpretations
The play incorporates the Targaryen awareness of the Song of Ice and Fire prophecy, which influences both Aerys and Rhaegar in different ways. Intriguingly, Lyanna Stark also experiences dreams related to the prophecy, leading her to understand it as a union between Targaryen and Stark bloodlines. This interpretation positions Lyanna not as a passive damsel but as a key figure who deciphers the prophecy's meaning, particularly concerning her son.
The conception of Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen is also placed on the same night, linked to a red star prophecy. Rhaegar's father, Aerys, summons his wife Rhaella for a conjugal visit, while Rhaegar is with Lyanna. Rhaella, suffering from burns sustained during Rhaegar's birth, foretells bearing a "vengeful daughter," hinting at Daenerys.
Lyanna Stark and the Knight of the Laughing Tree
Lyanna is portrayed as spirited and initially unenthusiastic about her betrothal to Robert Baratheon. Her deep, seemingly fated connection with Rhaegar leads her to abandon her previous life. Furthermore, the play clarifies the mystery of the Knight of the Laughing Tree, revealing it was Lyanna who donned the disguise to defend Howland Reed's honor at Harrenhal.
Robert Baratheon's Tragedy
Robert Baratheon's character is given added depth, highlighting his grief over his parents' death and his attempts to cope with it through alcohol. Lyanna's presence offers him solace, intensifying his determination to reclaim her after her "abduction." While capable of ruthlessness, as evidenced by his eventual reign and indifference to the fate of Elia Martell's children, the play frames his trajectory with a sense of tragic potential, particularly in light of his marriage to Cersei and manipulation by Tywin Lannister.
Political Alliances and Missed Opportunities
The influence of Rhaegar's wife, Elia Martell, and her confidante Ashara Dayne, is emphasized as a significant political force. Their connections could have swayed the conflict's outcome. The play suggests that had Rhaegar collaborated more closely with Elia and integrated Lyanna into his plans, the ensuing war might have been averted or resolved differently.