HBO’s “House of the Dragon” has made significant strides in addressing past shortcomings by giving Black characters the attention they deserve. This comes as a welcome change from “Game of Thrones,” which notably underutilized its few characters of color, like Grey Worm and Missandei. In contrast, “House of the Dragon” is now correcting these missteps and setting a new standard for representation in fantasy television.
When the series first premiered, the Black characters introduced—Corlys Velaryon, his children Laena and Laenor, and later his granddaughters Baela and Rhaena—appeared to be sidelined. Despite their pivotal roles in the lore of George R.R. Martin’s universe, the characters were not given adequate development. By Episode 6, Laena and Laenor were either killed off or removed from the storyline, leaving only Corlys, Baela, and Rhaena to represent Black characters in the series.
Baela and Rhaena, initially relegated to the background and given minimal dialogue, received limited attention, which was frustrating for both fans of the books and viewers looking for diverse representation. However, the second season marks a turning point. The showrunners seem to have recognized the need to rectify this oversight, and as a result, Baela and Rhaena have been elevated to more prominent roles.
Baela, portrayed by Bethany Antonia, now has a well-rounded character arc. Her fierceness and personal struggles are showcased, including her dynamic dragon-riding scenes and her complex relationship with her father. This development not only enriches her character but also allows Antonia to demonstrate her acting range. Baela’s enhanced presence in Season 2 makes her a standout character, moving beyond the shadow of her Season 1 portrayal.
Rhaena, played by Phoebe Campbell, also benefits from increased screen time this season. Previously known for her lack of a dragon and her passive role, Rhaena is now portrayed as more active and assertive. Her journey in Season 2 includes managing responsibilities in the Vale and pursuing a wild dragon, setting the stage for a potentially significant character development.
In addition to Baela and Rhaena, Season 2 introduces Addam and Alyn of Hull, who are revealed to be the illegitimate sons of Corlys Velaryon. Their addition to the story provides new dimensions to the Velaryon family and integrates them into the central narrative more effectively than previous Black characters. The careful buildup of their roles contrasts sharply with the previous handling of Black characters, demonstrating a thoughtful approach by the writers.
The depiction of Addam and Alyn, alongside Baela and Rhaena, illustrates a broader commitment to diverse and nuanced storytelling. This approach not only addresses past criticisms but also enhances the overall depth and appeal of the series. The inclusion of these characters in pivotal scenes and their development as key allies to Rhaenyra Targaryen reflects a promising shift toward more inclusive and respectful representation in fantasy media.
Overall, “House of the Dragon” has made commendable progress in its portrayal of Black characters. By giving Baela, Rhaena, Addam, and Alyn meaningful storylines and character development, the show is setting a new precedent for how diverse characters should be represented in fantasy. This shift underscores the importance of equitable representation and the impact it can have on both the narrative and its audience.
