Game of Thrones opened its seventh season with a ton of exciting advancements in the plot, but none had as much emotional resonance as Daenerys Targaryen‘s return to Dragonstone, her family’s ancestral castle. We’ve only seen Dragonstone when it has been under control of Stannis Baratheon, but Dany’s return is a triumphant reclamation. But that’s not the only reason Dragonstone is a crucial part of this world.
A Tactical Position
Dragonstone is an island that rests just outside of Blackwater Bay. It’s dangerously close to King’s Landing, separated by a thin spit of water. Honestly, it wouldn’t take much for Dany’s dragons to fly to Westeros and burn the city down. Of course, Dany would not do such a thing since the cost of innocent life would be unconscionable. But, her proximity to Cersei makes her an imminent threat.
History
It’s also important to note that Dragonstone’s status as the Targaryen home isn’t just apocryphal. The Targaryens place in Westeros’ history spawned from their abandonment of the Valyrian Freehold and relocation to Dragonstone. It was here that the Targaryens ruled for generations, cementing their powerful dynasty and eventually leading to their conquering of Westeros. Dragonstone proved a vital seat of power all the way up until Robert’s Rebellion and the destruction of the Targaryen household.
Dragonglass
The most vital piece of information about Dragonstone was the revelation that it is sitting on a mountain of dragonglass a.k.a. obsidian. Dragonglass, along with Valyrian steel, are the only known elements that can permanently kill the White Walkers. With this knowledge, Dany is now in control of the most integral component necessary to defeating the Night King and his undead army. Will Dany be able to work with the other leaders in Westeros in order to use the dragonglass against their common foe? Or will she be the only one with this necessary weapon at her disposal?
We’re sure to see lots of Dragonstone in the coming episodes. Could Dany even choose to rule from that throne instead of the Iron Throne? We’re excited to find out.
