Leiden University Student Repository

Verweij, Luuk (2017)

Game of Tropes: Subversion of Medieval Ideals in George R. R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire

Master thesis | Literary Studies (MA)

This thesis analyses George R.R. Martin’s fantasy series A Song of Ice and Fire from a medievalist perspective. By comparing Martin’s representation of several significant themes to his medieval and medievalist sources, we can see how he deviates from his sources to problematize the medieval. Firstly, Martin’s portrayal of women is discussed, highlighting strong female characters such as Daenerys. Another important aspect that is addressed is chivalry, discussing both the romantic side of chivalry and court life, as well as chivalry in regards to honour and righteousness. Altogether, this thesis analyses how Martin’s depiction of gender roles and chivalry may be interpreted as subverting the medieval ideals that Martin so clearly based himself on.

medievalism

fantasy

a song of ice and fire

chivalry

feminism

Author

Verweij, Luuk

Faculty

Faculty of Humanities

Specialisation

English Literature and Culture

Supervisors

Porck, M.H.

ECTS Credits

20

Language

en