Whiteness in Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones is a book written by George Martin. In this medieval fantasy tale, there are many references to blood and violence. This is because Game of Thrones is a type of fantasy referred to as gritty fantasy. Gritty fantasy is known for its blood, war, violence, grey lines, and rape. Sexual violence is very common and very present throughout the book. In fact, there is a theme of rape as a common thing among some cultures. Specifically, more in the Dothraki culture than in the White culture.

Often in fantasy, there is a common theme of “Whiteness.” This is what Helen Young refers to as “Habits of Whiteness.” This idea is that the White race and their traditions and culture are put at the center of the book. In fact, the “Whiteness” is put above all other non-White races. A common theme in fantasy is that the White characters are often the good and well-respected characters and the non-White races are depicted as “savage-like.” For example, in Game of Thrones, the Dothraki language and culture is depicted as savage-like. The Dothraki language is composed of many eastern languages. The language in the book is a non-Eurocentric language that is “harsh.” The culture is described savage-like. The Dothraki prize themselves on being the “strongest” which stands for the less time losing in fights. In fact, the leader is often the most advanced fighter and has the longest hair. The reason the hair is so long is because he has lived long enough to see it grow (basically he did not lose already).

In Game of Thrones, Dani Targaryen is married off to a Dothraki king by her brother in order to secure an army. Dani is a white, blonde woman that is just a young woman at this point. She is skeptical and does not want to be sold away. Upon her arrival, she seems almost repulsed by the customs of the Dothraki. For example, a Dothraki wedding is not a wedding unless blood is shed. During Dani and the Great Khal’s wedding, a fight takes place and blood is shed and Dani seems uncomfortable during the whole shedding of blood. Another example, is when the Dothraki take over other villages. The Great Khal decided he wanted to take the Iron Throne for Dani. To do this, he needed ships. To get ships, he needed money. To get money, the Dothraki take it from other villages. When the Dothraki take over the villages, they are portrayed as savages; therefore, they rape and pillage. Dani, the White woman, tries to use her privilege and power to “save” some of these women. However, these woman have already been raped at this point but sure White girl, go on, “help.”

This is a common theme not just in Game of Thrones but in most fantasy. The power and privilege of White “helping” the other races is common throughout fantasy. This is due to the Habits of Whiteness. Will this ever change? Only time will tell.