Game of Thrones season 5 episode 1 Recap and FAQ

Episode Summary

In a flashback, young Cersei learns a grim prophecy from a witch. In the present, King's Landing mourns Tywin Lannister's death, while Cersei and Jaime navigate the political aftermath. Tyrion, in Pentos with Varys, contemplates a new purpose supporting Daenerys Targaryen. In Meereen, Daenerys faces a rebellion by the Sons of the Harpy and ponders reopening the fighting pits. At the Wall, Stannis Baratheon offers Jon Snow legitimacy and command in exchange for the wildlings' allegiance. Meanwhile, Petyr Baelish and Sansa Stark continue their secretive journey. Daenerys struggles with her increasingly uncontrollable dragons. The episode culminates in Stannis executing Mance Rayder, with Jon Snow delivering a merciful arrow.

Full Episode S05E01 Recap

### Opening Scene: A Mysterious Witch - Two young girls, including a young Cersei, sneak into the woods. - They encounter a witch who predicts Cersei's future: - Cersei will not marry the prince, but the king. - She will be queen until a younger, more beautiful woman displaces her. - Cersei will have three children, all of whom are doomed. ### King's Landing: Mourning and Power Struggles - Cersei and Jaime Lannister mourn over their father Tywin's corpse. - Cersei blames Jaime for their father's death and Tyrion's escape. - Jaime warns Cersei of the dangers they now face without Tywin. ### Pentos: Tyrion and Varys Plot - Tyrion Lannister and Varys arrive in Pentos. - Varys reveals his intention to support Daenerys Targaryen for the Iron Throne. - Tyrion, disillusioned, struggles with the decision to join Varys's cause. ### Meereen: Tensions and Decisions - Daenerys Targaryen faces challenges ruling Meereen. - The Sons of the Harpy, a resistance group, begin their violent campaign. - Daario Naharis advises Daenerys to show strength by reopening the fighting pits. ### The Wall: Stannis's Offer - Stannis Baratheon offers Jon Snow a chance to legitimize him as Jon Stark. - Stannis wants the wildlings to fight for him, with Jon's influence. - Jon is torn between his vows to the Night's Watch and his desire for Winterfell. ### Winterfell: Baelish's Schemes - Petyr Baelish and Sansa Stark continue their journey, with uncertain destinations. - Baelish reveals his plan to keep Sansa safe from Cersei Lannister. ### Cersei's Reflections - Cersei receives condolences and navigates court politics. - She encounters Lancel Lannister, now a religious fanatic, who hints at past sins. ### Daenerys's Dragons - Daenerys struggles with controlling her dragons, who are becoming more dangerous. - She reluctantly visits Viserion and Rhaegal, who are aggressive towards her. ### The Burning of Mance Rayder - Stannis executes Mance Rayder for refusing to bend the knee. - Jon Snow, sympathetic to Mance, ends his suffering with an arrow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who did young Cersei meet in the woods?

A witch who predicted her future.

What did the witch predict for Cersei?

She would marry the king, not the prince, be queen until displaced by another, and have three doomed children.

What is Varys's plan in Pentos?

To support Daenerys Targaryen for the Iron Throne.

How does Daenerys react to the Sons of the Harpy's actions?

She faces challenges ruling Meereen and considers reopening the fighting pits.

What offer does Stannis make to Jon Snow?

To legitimize him as Jon Stark and have the wildlings fight for him.

Where are Petyr Baelish and Sansa Stark heading?

To a safe location away from Cersei Lannister, with an uncertain destination.

How has Lancel Lannister changed when he meets Cersei?

He has become a religious fanatic and hints at their past sins.

What problem does Daenerys face with her dragons?

She struggles to control them as they become more aggressive.

How does Mance Rayder die?

He is executed by Stannis for refusing to kneel, and Jon Snow mercifully shoots him with an arrow.

Game of Thrones season 5 episode 1

The Wars To Come