Many fans of the Game of Thrones universe were curious: how could House of the Dragon be watched when all the key events are already described in George R.R. Martin’s book Fire & Blood? However, the series doesn’t simply retell the story but adds new details, unveils mysteries, and even changes the fates of some characters. Some changes were personally made by Martin — perhaps he wanted to complement his saga this way.
Where did the court jester go?
In the book, King Viserys had a dwarf jester named Mushroom. He entertained the monarch and, after his death, moved to serve Princess Rhaenyra, offering advice. Some events in Fire & Blood are narrated from Mushroom’s point of view, but not everyone believes his stories, as they sometimes seem too fantastical.
In the series, Mushroom appears briefly during the wedding feast of Rhaenyra and Laenor Velaryon, where a dwarf can be seen among the musicians. However, he doesn’t appear again, and his role remains unexplored.
The mysterious death of the Strong family
In the book, the deaths of Lionel and Harwin Strong are surrounded by mystery. Some characters blame the curse of Harrenhal, others accuse Corlys Velaryon, and some even suspect Prince Daemon Targaryen or King Viserys himself. Some believe Larys Strong orchestrated the deaths to benefit himself, as after their deaths, he becomes Lord of Harrenhal.
In the series, this mystery is clarified: it is indeed Larys who organized the murders to strengthen his position and gain the queen’s trust.
Rhaenyra and Alicent’s friendship
In the book, Alicent Hightower is significantly older than Rhaenyra. She was a companion to the old King Jaehaeris, cared for him, and even referred to Rhaenyra as “daughter.” In the series, Alicent and Rhaenyra are made to be of the same age, and their relationship is more personal and dramatic. They start as friends, but Alicent’s betrayal destroys their bond when she marries Rhaenyra’s father, Viserys.
Aegon’s prophecy and its connection to Game of Thrones
In the series, in the very first episode, Aegon the Conqueror’s prophecy is mentioned, about the looming threat from the North that can only be defeated by a Targaryen on the Iron Throne. The dagger Arya used to kill the Night King also appears in scenes with Viserys and Rhaenyra.
This was not present in the book, but George R.R. Martin insisted on including this plotline. Perhaps he intends to connect the events of House of the Dragon and Game of Thrones even more closely.
The fate of Laenor Velaryon
In the book, Laenor Velaryon is killed by Qarl Corry, but his motives remain a mystery. The series offers a different version: Laenor actually survives. Daemon and Rhaenyra stage his death so he can escape and start a new life, while Rhaenyra can remarry.
Conclusion: Why the changes are necessary
Many of the differences between the book and the show add depth to the story, revealing characters in new ways and filling in gaps in the source material. Some of these changes were even initiated by George R.R. Martin himself, using the show as a way to clarify details in his world.
