"Game of Thrones" season 1, episode 5, titled "The Wolf and the Lion," continues to build on the political and societal landscape of the fantasy world of Westeros, as well as further developing the main characters and their respective storylines. The episode starts with Catelyn Stark visiting her sister Lysa Arryn in the Vale, where she learns about the Lannisters' involvement in the attempted murder of her son Bran Stark.
Meanwhile, in King's Landing, we see the Lannisters consolidating their power, as Queen Cersei Lannister manipulates King Robert Baratheon to name her son Joffrey as his heir. This sets up the Lannisters as the primary antagonists for the series, as well as establishing Joffrey as a major villain.
The episode also focuses on the Stark family, as we see Eddard Stark trying to uncover the truth about Bran's attempted murder, and his growing mistrust of the Lannisters. Additionally, we see Robb Stark, the oldest son of Eddard Stark, taking on more responsibility as the head of the Stark household in his father's absence.
Additionally, we see Daenerys Targaryen, the last surviving member of the deposed Targaryen dynasty, adjusting to her new life as the wife of Khal Drogo, the leader of the Dothraki. This serves to further develop Daenerys's character, as well as her eventual journey to reclaim the Iron Throne.
In summary, "The Wolf and the Lion" is a strong episode that continues to build on the political and societal landscape of the fantasy world of Westeros, as well as further developing the main characters and their respective storylines. The episode highlights Catelyn Stark's investigation into the attempted murder of her son Bran, the Lannisters' consolidation of power and establishment of Joffrey as a major villain, Eddard Stark's mistrust of the Lannisters, Robb Stark's growing responsibilities as the head of the Stark household, and Daenerys's journey to reclaim the Iron Throne. It further establishes the major conflicts that will drive the series forward.
