By the old gods and the new: A study of magic and religion in Game of Thrones

Abstract

The HBO-series Game of Thrones is a popular culture phenomenon. Like most products of the fantasy genre, it contains amazing and fascinating people and creatures, some of which are closely linked to magic and the supernatural. In this fictional world people practice different types of religions and worship a lot of different Gods. In this thesis, I will analyze how the notion of real, and demonstrably working magic, affects the characters’ religious beliefs. Does a certain connection to magic confirm or legitimize the validity of a religion? The analysis will predominantly address the three largest and most influential religions in Westeros. This being The Old Gods of The Forest, The Lord of Light, and The Faith of The Seven. Through selected scenes from the TV series, it will be assessed whether the presence of magic leads the religion to be perceived as more genuine than before, or at least more genuine than religions with no connection to magic or the supernatural. As the analysis will show, religions with a direct connection to magic appear to be more relevant, both in terms of religious support and political power. In conclusion to the text, it will be discussed whether the same results will be applicable to other fantasy products with a similar take on magic and religion, or if these findings only relate to the fictional world of Game of Thrones.