This episode’s recap includes spoilers for episode three of season two of House of the Dragon and Game of Thrones. Proceed with caution!
The third episode of House of the Dragon’s second season manages to deliver quite an impact, especially with a significant moment: a fated reunion between Rhaenyra and Alicent, attempting to bridge past conflicts before the storm of war descends upon the Seven Kingdoms. However, this episode will be most remembered for the surprise return of Milly Alcock as the younger Rhaenyra.
Alcock’s earlier portrayal won hearts due to her exceptional performance in the Australian dramedy series Upright. Her magnetic presence in the first half of House of the Dragon’s first season made her a standout. Fans were left waiting eagerly for her next big role in James Gunn’s Superman movie—until this week’s episode changed that.
Milly Alcock Returns as Young Rhaenyra
What might seem like a simple cameo is deeply entrenched in Westerosian lore. Upon Daemon Targaryen (Matt Smith) sneaking into Harrenhal, he starts experiencing visions, one being Alcock’s Rhaenyra. Harrenhal, known for its cursed legacy, sets the perfect backdrop for such supernatural occurrences.
Tragic History of Harrenhal
Harrenhal is more than just a strategic stronghold; it carries a rich history steeped in tragedy and misfortune. King Harren Hoare, also known as Harren the Black, pushed his subjects to construct what he deemed an impregnable castle—a process that spanned forty years and cost thousands of lives due to extreme weather and construction accidents.
Aegon the Conqueror quickly shattered this illusion, using his dragon Balerion to incinerate Harren and his family within their walls. This history, briefly mentioned by Ser Simon Strong as he tells Daemon about his ancestor who “incinerated much” with his dragon, remains a haunting testament to both ambition and downfall in Westeros.
The Curse Continues
Harrenhal’s curse perseveres throughout Westerosian history. Its inexplicable difficulties include being too vast to manage effectively and too costly to maintain. Rumors suggest that Harren mixed human blood into the stonework, cursing it eternally and ensuring each new lord faces inevitable doom.
This theme surfaces in Game of Thrones when Arya Stark serves Tywin Lannister at Harrenhal. Notably, every significant character associated with claiming or holding Harrenhal meets a tragic end by series’ conclusion—demonstrating its notorious heritage.
Daemon’s Haunted Vision
The latest episode utilizes Harrenhal’s storied past for deeper exploration into Daemon Targaryen’s psyche. After leaving Dragonstone, his encounter with visions—including younger Rhaenyra—speaks volumes about his turmoil and nostalgia.Considering their love affair began during her earlier years (who can forget their brothel visit!), it makes sense why Daemon would idealize this version of her
. Particularly now, given their current conflict after Daemon conspired behind adult Rhaenyra’s back.
The Creative Freedom in Fire & Blood
This episode exemplifies how George R.R. Martin’s Fire & Blood, forming House of the Dragon’s foundation, offers flexibility for artistic storytelling. While Alcock’s return brings satisfaction among fans, it raises questions about its continuity—whether it’s just a one-off appearance or hints at recurring roles in future episodes.
As we reflect on this episode’s gripping storytelling, only time will reveal how these unfolding events play out within Westeros’ intricate tapestry. Until then, young queen Milly reigns once more!