What is the plot?

In the episode "Histories & Lore: Robert's Rebellion (Barristan Selmy)," the narrative begins with Barristan Selmy, a seasoned knight of the Kingsguard, recounting the events leading up to Robert's Rebellion. He reflects on the political climate of Westeros, where tensions are high due to the perceived tyranny of King Aerys II Targaryen, known as the Mad King. The story unfolds with the backdrop of the Targaryen dynasty's decline and the growing discontent among the noble houses.

The first significant event is the abduction of Lyanna Stark by Prince Rhaegar Targaryen. This act is pivotal, as it ignites the flames of rebellion. Barristan describes how Rhaegar, who was initially seen as a noble and honorable prince, took Lyanna from her betrothed, Robert Baratheon, leading to a deep sense of betrayal and anger among the Starks and Baratheons. The emotional turmoil surrounding Lyanna's abduction is palpable, as Robert's love for her is intense and unyielding.

Following this, Barristan recounts the gathering of the great houses to discuss the situation. Eddard Stark, Lyanna's brother, is portrayed as a man of honor, torn between his loyalty to his family and the political implications of Rhaegar's actions. The tension escalates as Robert, fueled by rage and a desire for vengeance, rallies his bannermen, including the fierce and loyal Lord of Storm's End, to take a stand against the Targaryens. The emotional stakes are high, as Robert's motivations are deeply rooted in love and loss.

As the rebellion gains momentum, Barristan describes the initial battles, including the skirmishes at the Trident. The conflict is brutal, with vivid imagery of clashing swords and the cries of men in battle. Robert's forces, driven by their desire to reclaim Lyanna and overthrow the Mad King, engage in fierce combat against the Targaryen loyalists. The chaos of war is depicted through the eyes of Barristan, who reflects on the valor and sacrifice of the knights fighting for their cause.

The narrative then shifts to the pivotal moment of the Battle of the Trident, where Robert faces Rhaegar in single combat. The tension is thick as the two men, representing their respective houses, clash in a duel that will determine the fate of the realm. Barristan captures the intensity of the fight, detailing Robert's ferocity and Rhaegar's skill. The moment culminates in Robert delivering a fatal blow to Rhaegar, a scene filled with both triumph and tragedy, as the death of the prince marks a turning point in the rebellion.

With Rhaegar's death, the rebellion gains significant momentum, and Barristan describes the subsequent siege of King's Landing. The Mad King's paranoia leads him to commit heinous acts, including the execution of those he deems traitors. The emotional weight of these decisions is heavy, as Barristan reflects on the loss of innocent lives and the moral complexities of war. The atmosphere in the capital is one of fear and chaos, as the Targaryens' grip on power begins to crumble.

As the rebellion reaches its climax, Barristan recounts the moment when Jaime Lannister, a member of the Kingsguard, betrays his oath and kills King Aerys II. This act of treachery is pivotal, as it signifies the end of the Targaryen reign. The emotional conflict within Jaime is palpable, as he grapples with the consequences of his actions and the weight of his loyalty to the crown versus his personal beliefs.

The episode concludes with the aftermath of the rebellion, highlighting the rise of Robert Baratheon as the new king. Barristan reflects on the cost of the war, the loss of life, and the shifting power dynamics in Westeros. The emotional resonance of the rebellion is felt deeply, as the characters are left to navigate a new world shaped by their choices and sacrifices. The legacy of Robert's Rebellion is established, setting the stage for the future conflicts that will arise in the realm.

What is the ending?

In the episode "Histories & Lore: Robert's Rebellion (Barristan Selmy)," the narrative concludes with the aftermath of Robert's Rebellion, detailing the fates of key characters involved in the conflict. Robert Baratheon is crowned king, having successfully overthrown the Targaryen dynasty. Eddard Stark becomes the Warden of the North and is appointed as the Hand of the King. The Targaryen heirs, Viserys and Daenerys, are exiled across the Narrow Sea, while Barristan Selmy, a loyal knight, reflects on the changes in the realm and the loss of honor among the nobility.

As the episode unfolds, it begins with Barristan Selmy recounting the events leading to Robert's Rebellion. He describes the tension in the realm, marked by the cruel reign of King Aerys II Targaryen, known as the Mad King. The scene shifts to the moment when Prince Rhaegar Targaryen abducts Lyanna Stark, igniting the flames of war. Barristan's voice carries a sense of nostalgia and sorrow as he recalls the noble houses rallying to Robert's cause, driven by honor and vengeance.

The narrative then transitions to the battlefield, where Robert Baratheon leads his forces against the Targaryens. The clash is fierce, with vivid imagery of swords clashing and the cries of men echoing through the air. Barristan describes the valor of the knights, including his own participation in the battles, highlighting the camaraderie and the stakes of their fight for justice.

As the rebellion reaches its climax, the episode depicts the pivotal moment of the Storm's End siege, where Robert faces Rhaegar in single combat. The tension is palpable as Barristan recounts the duel, emphasizing Robert's determination and the weight of his quest for vengeance. The scene is charged with emotion, showcasing Robert's inner turmoil as he fights not just for his claim to the throne but for the memory of Lyanna Stark.

Following the victory, the episode portrays the crowning of Robert Baratheon in a grand ceremony, where he is celebrated as king. The atmosphere is filled with a mix of triumph and foreboding, as Barristan reflects on the cost of the rebellion. Eddard Stark, now Hand of the King, stands by Robert's side, embodying the loyalty and honor that defined their friendship.

The final scenes reveal the fates of the Targaryens. Barristan narrates the exile of Viserys and Daenerys, emphasizing their vulnerability and the lingering threat they pose to Robert's reign. The episode closes with Barristan's somber acknowledgment of the shifting tides of power, hinting at the complexities of loyalty and honor in a realm forever changed by war.

In summary, the episode encapsulates the end of Robert's Rebellion, highlighting the triumphs and tragedies of its key players, and setting the stage for the ongoing struggles that will define the realm of Westeros.

Is there a post-credit scene?

In the episode "Histories & Lore: Robert's Rebellion (Barristan Selmy)" from the "Game of Thrones" specials, there is no post-credit scene. The episode focuses on Barristan Selmy recounting the events of Robert's Rebellion, detailing the motivations and emotions of key figures involved in the conflict. It provides insights into the political landscape of Westeros at the time, the personal stakes for characters like Robert Baratheon, Eddard Stark, and Rhaegar Targaryen, and the impact of the rebellion on the realm. The narrative is rich with historical context and character depth, but it concludes without any additional scenes or content after the main feature.

What role did Barristan Selmy play in Robert's Rebellion?

Barristan Selmy, known as Barristan the Bold, was a key figure during Robert's Rebellion, serving as a loyal knight to Prince Rhaegar Targaryen. His unwavering sense of honor and duty led him to fight valiantly for the Targaryens, even as the rebellion unfolded. He witnessed the tragic events that led to the fall of House Targaryen and the rise of Robert Baratheon.

How did Barristan Selmy feel about the Targaryens during Robert's Rebellion?

Barristan Selmy held a deep sense of loyalty and respect for the Targaryen family, particularly for Prince Rhaegar. His internal conflict was palpable as he grappled with the honor of serving a family that was losing its grip on the Iron Throne. Despite the rebellion's outcome, his feelings were rooted in a chivalric code that valued loyalty above all.

What significant events did Barristan Selmy witness during the rebellion?

Barristan Selmy witnessed several pivotal moments during Robert's Rebellion, including the tragic death of Prince Rhaegar at the Battle of the Trident. He also saw the aftermath of the rebellion, including the sacking of King's Landing and the brutal execution of the Targaryen family, which left a lasting impact on him and shaped his future actions.

What was Barristan Selmy's relationship with Robert Baratheon after the rebellion?

After Robert's Rebellion, Barristan Selmy's relationship with Robert Baratheon was complex. While he served as a member of the Kingsguard under Robert, there was an underlying tension due to his loyalty to the Targaryens. Barristan struggled with his duty to protect a king who had usurped the throne from the family he had sworn to protect.

How did Barristan Selmy's actions during Robert's Rebellion define his character?

Barristan Selmy's actions during Robert's Rebellion defined him as a paragon of knightly virtue and honor. His commitment to his principles, even in the face of overwhelming odds and the changing tides of power, showcased his integrity. This unwavering dedication to his code of honor would resonate throughout his life, influencing his decisions and relationships in the years to come.

Is this family friendly?

The episode "Histories & Lore: Robert's Rebellion (Barristan Selmy)" from Game of Thrones contains several elements that may be objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers.

  1. Violence and War: The narrative discusses the brutalities of war, including battles and the impact of conflict on families and communities. This may include descriptions of injuries and death.

  2. Death of Characters: The episode references the deaths of significant characters, which can be emotionally distressing.

  3. Themes of Betrayal and Loss: The emotional weight of betrayal and the loss of loved ones are central themes, which may be heavy for younger audiences.

  4. Political Intrigue: The complexities of power struggles and the darker aspects of human nature are explored, which may be difficult for children to understand.

  5. Mature Themes: The overall tone of the series includes mature themes such as loyalty, honor, and the consequences of ambition, which may not be suitable for younger viewers.

These elements contribute to a narrative that is more appropriate for older teens and adults rather than a family-friendly audience.