Why Only Dothraki Weapons Were Lit with Fire in Game of Thrones S08E03

In the climactic battle of Game of Thrones S08E03, only the Dothraki weapons were seen to be lit with fire, while the swords of Jorah and the Unsullied remained unlit. This curious choice was not arbitrary but rather served a multitude of narrative, cultural, and tactical purposes.

Cultural Symbolism

The Dothraki people of M-configured D-toothed Jagged horseback are deeply connected to their tradition of fire. In their culture, fire is not just a tool but a sacred symbol, often associated with their gods and the notions of strength and vitality. The act of lighting their weapons on fire is more than just a tactical choice; it serves as a spiritual ritual that bolsters their fighting morale and intimidates their enemies. For the Dothraki, every burning weapon is a beacon of their legacy and will to power.

Tactical Choice Practicality

The Dothraki, known for their cavalry tactics, rely on speed, shock value, and the element of surprise. By lighting their arakhs (Dothraki swords), they add a psychological impact to their charge, making their presence even more daunting to the enemy. In contrast, the Unsullied and Jorah’s weapon (Heartsbane) have a different fighting style and purpose. The Unsullied, trained for discipline and formation, would have no practical use for flaming weapons, as their effectiveness lies in their precision and coordinated attack patterns. Similarly, Jorah’s sword, Heartsbane, is made of Valyrian steel and is designed to kill Wights and Others with a single touch, rendering a flaming tip unnecessary.

Dramatic Effect Narrative Impact

The decision to light the Dothraki weapons on fire also serves a narrative purpose. The fire-lit Dothraki charge against the White Walkers creates a striking visual contrast that emphasizes the tragic outcome of their battle. The burning arakhs contrast sharply with the dragonglass-imbued spears of the Unsullied, which would be rendered ineffective if lit on fire. The tension and ferocity of the battle are heightened, making the scene all the more dramatic and memorable.

From a practical standpoint, the Unsullied’s spears are imbued with dragonglass, a material that would be destroyed if they were set alight. Additionally, the wooden spears could catch fire completely, making them useless. The arakh, on the other hand, is made of steel, and only that part of the weapon catches fire, preserving the integrity of the weapon itself.

In conclusion, the choice to light only the Dothraki weapons on fire was a multifaceted decision that enhanced the cultural significance, tactical effectiveness, and narrative impact of the scene. It added depth to the portrayal of the Dothraki warriors and served the dramatic needs of the episode, making it a memorable and impactful moment in the series.