'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms' episode 5 shapes 'Game of Thrones' history

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms delivered a decisive turn in episode five, as the death of Baelor Targaryen altered the future of House Targaryen and set in motion events that later shape Game of Thrones.

The episode ends with Baelor arriving as Ser Duncan the Tall recovers from his injuries following a fight with Aerion Targaryen. Dunk kneels and pledges his fealty, prompting Baelor to reply, “I need good men, Ser Duncan. The realm…,” before asking for help removing his damaged helm.

When told the back of his helmet has been crushed, Baelor says, “My brother’s mace, most like. He’s strong.” Once the helm is lifted, it becomes clear the blow has fatally shattered his skull. Baelor collapses into Dunk’s arms and does not respond as Dunk repeats, “I’m sorry.”

The moment mirrors events from George R R Martin’s The Hedge Knight novella and fulfils a prophecy mentioned earlier in the series.

In a previous episode, Baelor’s nephew Daeron recounts a dream in which Dunk is crushed beneath a dead dragon with “wings so large they could cover this meadow.” He tells Dunk, “It had fallen on top of you. But you were alive and the dragon was dead.”

Baelor’s death removes a potential ruler portrayed as more measured than other members of his family. His passing leads to his brother Maekar taking the throne, followed by Maekar’s son Aegon V. The line of succession continues to Jaehaerys II and then Aerys II, later known as the Mad King, whose rule contributes to the Targaryen downfall in Westeros.

The season one finale airs on February 22 on HBO and HBO Max.