Every episode of House of the Dragon season 1, ranked worst to best

5. “Second Of His Name” (Episode 3)

If the first two episodes of House of the Dragon felt largely like a runway into a greater story, Episode 3 is where the conflict really starts to heat up. “Second Of His Name” is a very focused episode, split entirely between a royal hunt in the Kingswood and the war in the Stepstones.

As with the tourney in Episode 1, the hunt is another element of Martin’s works that has never received a proper screen treatment. It does here, although the sequence is compelling beyond the pageantry. The interpersonal drama begins to really hit its stride in this episode, with Rhaenyra struggles in her position as heir after her best friend Alicent gives birth to the king’s first living son, Aegon. Rhaenyra grapples with the expectations placed upon her, all while suspecting that her father will supplant her as heir as soon as it’s convenient.

Speaking of Viserys, “Second Of His Name” is also the episode where Paddy Considine really starts to flex his Emmy-worthy acting chops. King Viserys just wants to have a relaxing time out in the forest, but is beset by sycophants and graspers from every side. Just as Rhaenyra chafes at her situation, so too does Viserys as he gets progressively drunker while shrugging off Otto, Rhaenyra, and newcomer Jason Lannister. It’s a messy, fun episode that does a lot of legwork to get us more invested in the characters.

Then there’s the conflict in the Stepstones, the only actual battle scene of the season. As with the royal hunt, this scene dials into our characters, giving Daemon a great moment where he freaks out and beats up a messenger after getting news that his big brother will be sending soldiers to bail him and Corlys Velaryon out of their failed campaign. Rather than accept that help, Daemon single-handedly draws out the Crabfeeder while Laenor Velaryon soars overhead on his dragon Seasmoke.

Does it make the most sense from a strategic standpoint? Probably not, but damn is it fun to watch.