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Abstract

This dissertation explores the postmodern identities of the characters in George R. R. Martin’s series A Song of Ice and Fire. This argument is shaped using the critical framework of the Faith of the Seven. The Faith has seven gender constructions which the Westerosi characters are expected to live. Throughout the dissertation, I will analyse how characters conform to or transgress their respective gender roles utilising Carroll’s work on Medievalism in A Song of Ice and Fire and Game of Thrones. Martin’s characters subvert fantasy tropes of gender and identity in a medieval world, and within this subversion, he produces rich and complicated characters. Chapter one will analyse the female roles of the Faith and will utilise critical discussions on medieval notions of womanhood and femininity to demonstrate how female characters use performance to conform. The depth and complexity of Martin’s writing of characters assist in exposing the patriarchal restrictions in Westeros. This argument will be explored in an analysis of the two hypermasculine roles of the Faith in chapter two. I will build on the medieval notions of chivalry, honour and duty to analyse the limitations placed upon male gender roles and the difficulties men face to live by such ideals. Not only does this expose the toxic pressures that are present, but also the violent nature masked behind the facade of chivalry. As a result of these pressures, self-identity and familial ties are broken, and this dissertation seeks to uncover the presentation of identity and selfhood when such pressures are applied. Chapter three examines how the previous themes of femininity and masculinity influence and restrict identity by confining them into the role of Other. I will build on critical discussions on disability, and dwarfism in particular, as well as discussing themes of emasculation in order to demonstrate how those with a disability are forced to occupy a working-class role, no matter their perceived social standing. By attempting to conform to male gender roles, characters are able to move away from the position of the Other and survive the ableist attitudes of Westeros by asserting masculine agency. After considering these areas, this dissertation will conclude that Martin deliberately subverts traditional gender roles and presents the destructive impact on such restrictive and patriarchal ideals in a medieval feudal system.

Course: English Literature - BA (Hons) - C0995

Date Deposited: 2021-03-11

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis13672.html