Welcome to the season 2 finale episode! In this episode, Liz shares some final thoughts and does an overview of House Targaryen. She makes plenty of references to episodes from this season. So be sure to listen to those first or you will hear spoilers! She includes some references to real world history and personal commentary when reflecting on the dynasty as a whole. The second half of the episode includes a discussion of what Liz will be covering in Season 3 later in 2025. The main focus of ne...
Feb 26, 2025•44 min•Season 2Ep. 19
Join Liz in the final chapters of the Targaryen dynasty as she discusses the reigns of Jaehaerys II and Aerys II. She welcomes new listeners and announces a brief hiatus to prepare for season three. The discussion starts with Jaehaerys II, his early life and his marriage to his sister Shaera. The episode also includes his father's attempts to forge alliances through strategic marriages. Next, Liz talks about the War of the Ninepenny Kings and the rise of Aerys II to the throne. The episode concl...
Feb 19, 2025•33 min•Season 2Ep. 18
Join Liz as she continues her journey through Westerosi history! The episode starts with a welcome to new listeners. Liz shares updates to the Targaryen Kings poll. Do you agree with what your fellow listeners think? Do you disagree? Let your opinion be known by answering the poll yourself! Head to https://www.thewesterosiprimer.com/king-poll and join in! If you're new to this podcast, Liz highlights why you should check out previous episodes. The various episodes of this podcast offer insights ...
Feb 12, 2025•32 min•Season 2Ep. 17
Join Liz as she explores the reigns of Targaryen brothers Aerys I and Maekar I. The episode picks up with the Great Spring Sickness, which drastically altered the line of succession. Aerys I is the bookish brother only interested in the great mysteries. He stands in contrast to his brother Maekar I, known for his martial prowess and swift judgment. Also in this episode, Liz discusses the Second and Third Blackfyre Rebellions and the rise of the Golden Company. Aegor Rivers' rallies the exiled su...
Feb 05, 2025•31 min•Season 2Ep. 16
If you're interested in getting occasional news, behind the scenes content, and interesting fandom content, sign up to the newsletter ! Head to: https://www.thewesterosiprimer.com/newsletter What if one strategic marriage could end a war and change the course of Westeros? Join Liz on the Westerosi Primer as she explores the reign of Daeron II Targaryen. This king would later be remembered as Daeron the Good. This episode kicks off with an some listener feedback on the best and worst Targaryen ki...
Jan 29, 2025•30 min•Season 2Ep. 15
Podcast Summary What if the scandals and indulgences of a king could unravel an entire kingdom? Join Liz as she scrutinizes the reign of Aegon IV, infamously dubbed Aegon the Unworthy. His rule was a whirlwind of chaos in Westeros. From a small council filled with sycophants to reckless personal escapades, Aegon's pursuit of pleasure over responsibility left a legacy of instability. This episode draws parallels between Aegon and England's notorious Henry VIII, each renowned for their scandalous ...
Jan 22, 2025•26 min•Season 2Ep. 14
If you enjoy this episode, be sure to sign up the the podcast newsletter! Head over to https://thewesterosiprimer.substack.com This podcast episode delves into the reigns of Targaryen kings Baelor and Viserys II. King Baelor becomes known for his religious zeal. He made decisions that were more divine than diplomatic. His reign included releasing Dornish captives and journeying to Sunspear for peace. Baelor's actions, such as rescuing his cousin Aemon and secluding his sisters, revealed contradi...
Jan 15, 2025•18 min•Season 2Ep. 13
Join Liz on an exciting journey through the history of Westeros, kicking off with a warm welcome to the new year, 2025. She shares some updates about the future of the podcast. This includes plans for a hiatus after this season, with the return to cover reactions to the highly anticipated series "A Night of the Seven Kingdoms." Please subscribe to the podcast newsletter to find out updates and other content not part of the podcast! https://www.thewesterosiprimer.com/newsletter In this episode, w...
Jan 08, 2025•22 min•Season 2Ep. 12
This podcast episode explores the end of Aegon III's regency and the rest of his reign in Westeros. Also in this episode: Unwin Peake's possible involvement in the Secret Siege Torrhen Manderly becomes Hand of the King and new additions to the Small Council Trials are held for conspirators involved in poisoning Queen Daenaera and Gaemon Palehair. Also the conspiracy against the Rogares. Aegon III's adult years are marked by peace but social challenges due to his introverted nature. His marriage ...
Dec 18, 2024•22 min•Season 2Ep. 11
In this podcast episode, we continue discussing the regency of King Aegon III amidst political upheaval. Aegon's brother Viserys returns, bringing both comfort and new challenges to the Red Keep. Thaddeus Rowan becomes Hand of the King struggling with complex political dynamics. We explore the influence of House Rogare who draw parallels to the Medici family. The Rogare family's rise and subsequent fall impact Westeros's political and economic affairs. The fierce battle for leadership of the Val...
Dec 11, 2024•35 min•Season 2Ep. 10
This podcast episode explores Aegon III's reign after the Dance of the Dragons civil war. Aegon ascended the throne at age 11, deeply traumatized by his experiences. The podcast delves into Aegon's somber personality influenced his governance and leadership style. Key figures like Tyland Lannister and Unwin Peake were in charge of the kingdom's fragile political landscape. The episode discusses Aegon's marriages to Jaehaera Targaryen and Daenaera Velaryon and Prince Viserys's return to Westeros....
Dec 04, 2024•39 min•Season 2Ep. 9
Check out this episode of Westerosi Primer as Liz continues her discussion of the Dance of the Dragons. She discusses: Aegon's cunning persuasion of Sir Alfred Broome and others to switch sides, leading to a crucial takeover. This leads to a dramatic showdown between Baela Targaryen on Moondancer and Aegon on Sunfyre. The alleged relationship between Daemon and Nettles. Rhaenyra's response to the "affair" has consequences. The highly anticipated Battle of the God's Eye. Rhaenyra Targaryen's wani...
Nov 20, 2024•33 min•Season 2Ep. 8
Join Liz on this episode of The Westerosi Primer. This time she goes through the Dance of the Dragons, a turbulent chapter in Westeros' history. This episode covers events from George R.R. Martin's "Fire and Blood" and the TV series "House of the Dragon." She explores the unfolding political tensions following King Viserys' death and highlights the divide between the Greens and the Blacks. Key figures such as Otto Hightower and Criston Cole take center stage, while Daemon Targaryen and Rhaenyra ...
Nov 13, 2024•32 min•Season 2Ep. 7
Episode Summary In this episode, Liz is focusing on the life and reign Viserys I. This episode also includes more about the surviving grandchildren of King Jaehaerys I. She discusses more about Rhaenys Targaryen including her distinctive traits from the books, like her black hair. There's also a brief talk about Aemma Arryn's marriage to then Prince Viserys. This episode explores the rocky brotherly relationship between Viserys and Daemon. Listen in as she unravels the political intricacies and ...
Nov 06, 2024•38 min•Season 2Ep. 6
In this episode, Liz continues her exploration of the reign of King Jaehaerys I, known as Jaehaerys the Conciliator. Navigate through significant events from AC 62 until his death, focusing on the births and tragic early deaths of his children. From construction of the King's Road to the appointment of Aemon as Prince of Dragonstone, we talk about the longest reign om Westeros. Along the way, Liz makes fascinating parallels between Jaehaerys to historical figures like King Edward I and King Henr...
Oct 30, 2024•29 min•Season 2Ep. 5
Check out this episode as Liz talks about the life and reign of King Jaehaerys I, also known as Jaehaerys the Conciliator. This episode focusses on the early years of Jaehaerys and his sister-wife, Alysanne. They navigate the tumultuous events of their childhood, including the political chaos that followed the death of their father. With the support of their mother, Alyssa, and Lord Rogar Baratheon, we witness Jaehaerys's bold claim to the throne at just 14 years old. As we set the stage for the...
Oct 23, 2024•35 min•Season 2Ep. 4
Check out this episode of the Westerosi Primer as we explore the contrasting lives and reigns of two Targaryen brothers, Aenys and Maegor. Born during the First war with Dorne, Aenys was a sickly child often rumored not to be Aegon's son. Howeer he found strength through his bond with his dragon, Quicksilver. In stark contrast, Maegor, the younger and more imposing brother, was trained as a warrior and showcased a fierce temperament. Liz examines Aenys's passive and indecisive nature against Mae...
Oct 16, 2024•24 min•Season 2Ep. 3
Join Liz as she takes you through the life and conquests of King Aegon I Targaryen, also known as Aegon the Conqueror. We start with Aegon's early life. This episode starts with his birth as the middle child of Aerion Targaryen and Valaena Velaryon, and his marriages to his sisters, Visenya and Rhaenys. Each sibling's unique role in the conquest is highlighted. The episode talks about from Aegon's possession of the Valyrian steel sword Blackfyre, to Visenya's warrior prowess with Darksister, and...
Oct 09, 2024•20 min•Season 2Ep. 2
Join Liz as she kicks off season two of the Westerosi Primer with an exciting focus on House Targaryen. In this premiere episode, she shares the results of our listener poll. This led to her decision to explore each Targaryen king in detail. Expect 14 to 15 episodes filled with fascinating insights and influences of these different rulers. She also gives a behind-the-scenes look at the podcast's production process. The podcast's website has additional content, and ways listeners can engage with ...
Oct 02, 2024•12 min•Season 2Ep. 1
Listen in for the season one finale of the Westerosi Primer as we wrap up an incredible journey through the world of Westeros. Liz shares important housekeeping updates. This includes the upcoming hiatus and the news that Season 2 will launch on October 2nd. You, the listeners, are encouraged to participate in a poll to help decide the theme of the next season. The poll has intriguing options such as fan theories, real-world history and culture, and a thorough exploration of House Targaryen. Don...
Aug 07, 2024•38 min•Season 1Ep. 19
Check this episode of The Westerosi Primer! We kick things off with some important housekeeping updates. This includes the announcement of the season one finale and a brief hiatus until October. There's a three-way tie in our poll for season two topics..You have until August 14th to cast your vote. Plus, Liz announces a Q&A session for the first episode of season two. So be sure to send in your questions by the end of September. Listen in as Liz dissects the latest episode of House of the Dr...
Jul 31, 2024•40 min•Season 1Ep. 18
This time on the Westerosi Primer, Liz dissects the latest episode of House of the Dragon. The episode kicks things off with Jason Lannister's preparations for battle in the Riverlands. Liz includes historical context and references from Game of Thrones. Then, we shift our focus to Aemond's role as regent. Liz explores his decisive yet impulsive leadership while Aegon is bedridden. Liz discusses the political tension between Aemond and Larys, who sees an opportunity to gain favor by supporting A...
Jul 24, 2024•36 min•Season 1Ep. 17
Join Liz for another episode of the Westerosi Primer as we kick things off with some updates and listener engagement. With a current poll running for next season's topics, the current frontrunner is a discussion of the real-world historical and cultural influences on George R.R. Martin's saga. Transitioning into our main discussion, Liz discusses this week's intense episode of House of the Dragon, where Criston Cole returns to King's Landing with the decapitated head of Meleys and a severely inj...
Jul 17, 2024•34 min•Season 1Ep. 16
Join Liz on this week's episode of The Westerosi Primer. First there are some some exciting housekeeping announcements! She shares the updates on the ongoing poll for the next season's theme. The current results show a keen interest in exploring House Targaryen and the real-world inspirations behind George R.R. Martin's epic saga. Plus, she is thrilled to announce two new newsletter subscribers and hint at a mysterious side project that will be revealed once the newsletter hits 49 subscribers. A...
Jul 10, 2024•37 min•Season 2Ep. 15
In this episode of the Westerosi Primer, we delve into "The Burning Mill" episode of "House of the Dragon." The podcast begins with a poll update on season 2's theme. The current result is focusing on House Targaryen. Liz encourages listeners to participate in the poll and subscribe to the newsletter. She then transitions into discussing the latest episode. She expresses some disappointment over the absence of the House Bracken vs. House Blackwood battle on screen. Liz provides more info about A...
Jul 03, 2024•29 min•Season 1Ep. 14
In this episode, the podcast delves into this week's episode of House of the Dragon titled "Rhaenyra the Cruel." Liz announces updates to the podcast website, including links to the newsletter and a poll for season 2 of the podcast. Listeners are encouraged to vote on the theme for next season. Options ranging from character essays to fan theories. The discussion begins with the strained relationship between Aegon and Helaena. This emphasizes their disconnected marriage and individual grieving. ...
Jun 26, 2024•39 min•Season 1Ep. 13
In this episode of the Westerosi Primer, Liz talks about the first episode of the new season! First she gets into the new opening sequence of House of the Dragon. Liz compares the new sequence to Season 1's, noting the improved visual storytelling. Inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry, the credits sequence presents important events of House Targaryen's history up to this point in time. She identifies references to key events like Aegon's Conquest and Maegor the Cruel. The sequence ends with Aegon and...
Jun 19, 2024•21 min•Season 1Ep. 12
In this episode of the Westerosi Primer, Liz crosses the Narrow Sea to the continent of Essos. The episode kicks off with updates on the podcast's new direction, including post-episode reactions for House of the Dragon. Listeners are encouraged to follow the show's social media accounts and subscribe to the newsletter for exclusive content. A poll is also introduced to help determine the theme for the podcast's second season. Liz starts by exploring the lesser-known locations in Essos. The episo...
Jun 12, 2024•22 min•Season 1Ep. 11
In this installment of the Westerosi Primer, host Liz delves into the history of the Crownlands, the heart of power in Westeros. The region, initially disputed land between the Riverlands and Stormlands, gained prominence following the Targaryen conquest. The strategic Blackwater Rush and Blackwater Bay are emphasized, as well as the capital, King's Landing. The narrative traces the early history of the Crownlands, highlighting the shifting landscape of power before the Targaryens reshaped the r...
Jun 05, 2024•10 min•Season 1Ep. 10
In this episode, we take a deep dive into the Riverlands, the central region from George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series. The episode delves into the strategic and agricultural importance of the area's waterways, including the Red Fork, Blue Fork, Green Fork, and the Trident. Also featured are significant locations like Riverrun and Harrenhal. This conversation on the Riverlands provides a geographical and historical background, emphasizing the lack of natural barriers and the result...
May 29, 2024•20 min•Season 1Ep. 9
