House of the Dragon Episode 3 Review: The Burning Mill

Recap

Episode 3 of House of the Dragon, titled “The Burning Mill,” marks a pivotal moment as the Dance of the Dragons officially begins. The episode kicks off with a dramatic battle at the Burning Mill, where the Blackwoods, who support Rhaenyra, clash with the Brackens, supporters of Aegon II. The battle is fierce, and Davos Blackwood stands out, reminiscent of the original Game of Thrones’ Davos Seaworth but far more unhinged. The mill burns in the background as the battle aftermath is seen, setting a grim tone for the upcoming conflict.

The episode also dives into the history of the long-standing feud between the Blackwoods and Brackens, dating back to the Age of Heroes. This feud is echoed in the current conflict between Rhaenyra and Aegon II, with Rhaenys predicting that the Dance of the Dragons will lead to such widespread hatred and destruction that people will forget the war’s origins. Meanwhile, the funeral of the Cargyll twins serves as a somber reminder of the escalating violence and Jace’s growing impatience and desire for vengeance.

Criston Cole’s incompetence as Hand of the King is highlighted, and tensions within the small council rise as they debate their next moves. Alicent’s attempts at diplomacy are largely ignored, emphasizing her isolation and the growing chaos within the court. Meanwhile, the episode hints at internal strife among the Greens, with Aegon’s paranoia and mistrust growing. The plight of the smallfolk is shown again, hinting at their increasing importance in the narrative.

Back at Dragonstone, Rhaenyra and her council strategize, with Mysaria becoming the new Mistress of Whispers. Rhaenyra’s plans to secure more dragon riders, the so-called Dragon Seeds, are set in motion, aiming to bolster their forces against the Greens.

Daemon’s capture of Harrenhal, a strategic yet problematic stronghold, marks another significant development. His eerie experiences and visions within the ancient castle, including encounters with Alice Rivers, add a layer of mysticism and foreshadow future conflicts.

The climax features a poignant meeting between Rhaenyra and Alicent in King’s Landing, where Rhaenyra reveals the true meaning of Aegon’s prophecy. Despite this revelation, Alicent believes it’s too late to stop the war, encapsulating the tragic inevitability of their conflict. The episode ends on a note of grim determination as both sides prepare for the battles to come.

Analysis

“The Burning Mill” effectively sets the stage for the Dance of the Dragons, weaving together rich historical context and intense character dynamics. The opening battle at the Burning Mill is both visually and emotionally impactful, symbolizing the broader conflict that will engulf Westeros. The episode’s strength lies in its ability to juxtapose the personal and political, illustrating how ancient grudges and personal ambitions drive the larger war.

Criston Cole’s promotion to Hand of the King and subsequent failures highlight the instability and infighting within Aegon II’s camp.

Rhaenyra’s alliance with Mysaria and focus on the smallfolk reflect a more pragmatic and inclusive approach compared to the Greens’ increasingly autocratic stance. This dichotomy between the factions sets up a compelling clash of ideologies as well as armies.

Daemon’s storyline at Harrenhal adds a layer of supernatural intrigue, with his visions and interactions with Alice Rivers hinting at deeper, darker forces at play. The depiction of Harrenhal as both a strategic asset and a cursed liability captures its unique place in Westerosi lore, and Daemon’s conquest, despite its ease, foreshadows the high costs of war.

The emotional core of the episode is the meeting between Rhaenyra and Alicent. This scene, charged with years of friendship, betrayal, and now a desperate hope for peace, encapsulates the tragic arc of their relationship. Alicent’s realization of the true prophecy and her resignation to the inevitable conflict underscores the theme of fate versus free will, a recurring motif in Martin’s work.

Overall, “The Burning Mill” is a masterful blend of action, drama, and exposition, propelling the story forward while delving deep into the characters’ motivations and histories. The episode balances large-scale battles with intimate moments, ensuring that the stakes feel both epic and personal. As the Dance of the Dragons intensifies, viewers are left eagerly anticipating the next moves in this deadly game of thrones.