Once again, some of the strongest material in the episode came in scenes not originally depicted in the book. I never much liked Catelyn in the books, though I still look forward to her chapters as the window on the story of Robb. The scene in which she spoke of Jon Snow was a new addition that, while not really making her character any more sympathetic, did make her more understandable.
Another strong new scene was the one between Joffrey and Margaery. Charged with dangerous subtext (and filled with not at all subtle innuendo), Margaery demonstrated her silver tongue as she charmed the little psychopath. Joffrey's a bit too clever for just anyone to tell him what he wants to hear, but Margaery is not just anybody. I continue to enjoy the way Margaery is being portrayed as a much stronger woman than I ever perceived on the page.
The torture of Theon is also an addition from the book... sort of. Readers learned of what happened to Theon in book five, looking back in to see what had become of him. Viewers will get to see it unfold as it happens, it seems. That makes sense, of course... but as this week indicated, it's going to be very hard to watch.
And yet another change... well, more of a refinement, really... were the elements of foreshadowing. For people reading this blog who haven't read the books, I really can't point to exactly which moments were foreshadowing things, or how far down the road the events they portend will take place. But suffice it to say, I think the series is drawing a much sharper sense of cause and effect for the audience. When the time does come, it will be interesting to see what TV-only fans of the story make of it.
I continue to enjoy the journey. Game of Thrones is making it much easier to wait for Breaking Bad to return.
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