House of the Dragon Repeats a Stark Decision Resulting in the Red Wedding
Lord Oscar Tully makes a daring choice in House of the Dragon season 2, episode 7 that mirrors the sad circumstances culminating in Robb Stark's death at the Red Wedding in Game Of Thrones. Both shows show youthful, inexperienced leaders rising to authority following the passing of their predecessors. Their drive to prove themselves drives them to make dubious choices about their own bannermen, which finally proves catastrophic for House Stark.
Oscar Tully's Choice Reflects Robb Stark's Death Mistake
Lord Oscar Tully acts decisively upon becoming Lord Paramount of the Trident, much as Robb Stark established himself as the King in the North upon the death of his father. When Oscar and the Riverlords show up at Harrenhal to respond to Daemon Targaryen's summons, the young lord shows his might by demanding Daemon atone for his war crimes in the Riverlands. Oscar tells Daemon to carry out Willem Blackwood's brutal plans, therefore repeating Robb's error in punishing his bannerman Rickard Karstark.
A History of Betrayal: Oscar Tully's Behaves Reflect the Downfall of Robb Stark
As it marks a betrayal of their own people, it is rare for a liege lord to murder one of their bannermen in both Game Of Thrones and House Of The Dragon. But Oscar Tully's first response upon acquiring Riverrun is to arrange Willem Blackwood's execution for his crimes against several Riverlands' houses. Oscar does not directly kill Willem; rather, Daemon executes him. Although his order could have terrible results, much as Robb Stark's.
The choice of Robb Stark to put Lord Rickard Karstark to death for killing two Lannister lads starts a series of events that brings him down. Angry at Jaime Lannister killing Rickard's son, Lord Karstark kills young Martyn and Willem Lannister. The Karstarks and many of his troops thus desert Robb, leaving him dependent on House Frey. Eventually the Freys turn on Robb and plan the Red Wedding, which causes his death.
Will Oscar Tully follow in the footsteps of the Riverlords?
While Oscar Tully might not meet the same end, Robb Stark's choice to slay his bannerman set him on a road to death. Unlike the Northerners, who suggested Robb to keep Rickard alive, the Riverlords of House of the Dragon are keen for justice for the attacks on their territory. Thus, even if it runs the danger of infuriating one of Willem Blackwood, they are likely to see Oscar Tully's command to execute him as evidence of his will and dedication to justice.
House of the Dragon: Stories of Dragons and Betrayal
Set over 172 years before the events of Game of Thrones, House of the Dragon narrates the ascent of the Targaryens, the only dragonlords to survive the Doom of Valyria. Originally featuring Milly Alcock and Emily Carey as Rhaenyra Targaryen and Alicent Hightower, this famous HBO spinoff show was later replaced by Emma D'Arcy and Olivia Cooke, who play the elder incarnations of the characters. Other well-known stars are King Viserys Targaryen's father, Rhaenyra, Matt Smith (Prince Daemon Targaryen) and Paddy Considine.
House of the Dragon never fails to enthrall viewers with its rich characters, compelling narratives, and breathtaking images, with an eye toward political intrigue, power conflicts, and the impending dragon menace. The issue of whether Oscar Tully will absorb lessons from Robb Stark's blunders or will he meet the same terrible end as the show runs on still begs.
