Game of Thrones is one of most complex stories ever told on television. When the series starts, there are already thousands of years of history that have gone by, creating a backdrop of warring houses all keen for political gain and violent conquest. Or sometimes merely just self-preservation.
George R.R. Martin’s expansive fictional universe of Westeros (and Essos) have way more stories than could ever be told in eight seasons of television. Even the much more detailed novels (if they ever get finished) barely touch on some of the mysteries listed below, although they are sometimes mentioned in passing by other characters. With HBO currently in negotiations to produce a Game of Thrones prequel or spin-off series, these are the biggest mysteries we hope will get some answers.
We’re not saying every single one of these mysteries needs an entire series devoted to it, though. Some could be answered in a single episode, or even a single scene. Others, like the rise and fall of Valyria, might require a couple of seasons worth of explanation.
Game of Thrones has been one of HBO’s biggest hits ever, so here’s hoping that the premium cable channel will keep the stories coming and explain the following Westerosi mysteries.
**SPOILER WARNING: Don’t read on if you’re not completely caught up with all seven seasons of Game of Thrones, for the article is dark and full of spoilers.**
14. The Tournament at Harrenhal
If there is one single event that kicked off the entire conflict in Game of Thrones, it happened at the Tournament of Harrenhal. It was hosted by Lord Walter Whent and offered prizes three-times higher than that of Tywin Lannister, the richest man in the seven kingdoms. That attracted a who’s who of Westerosi lords, including Lord Robert Baratheon, Ser Arthur Dayne, Lord Jon Arryn, Ser Jaime Lannister, Elia and Oberyn Martell, Howland Reed, Ser Barristan Selmy, Eddard and Lyanna Stark, and Prince Rhaehar Targaryen.
Those last two names are notable. Prince Rhaegar was already married to Elia Martell at the time of the tournment. Lyanna Stark was betrothed to Robert Baratheon. When Rhargar won the tournament, he placed a crown of blue roses in Lyanna’s lap, choosing her as the new “queen of love and beauty.” It was considered a scandalous action, and eventually culminated in Lyanna and Rhaegar running off together. Most people assumed (or were told) that Rhaegar forcibly kidnapped her, kicking off Robert’s Rebellion that ultimately ended the Targaryen dynasty. All of the dramatic events of the show can be traced back to a single moment in history, and it’s a shame we’ve never seen it on screen.
http://awoiaf.westeros.org/index.php/Tourney_at_Harrenhal Via awoiaf.westeros.org