Why Game Of Thrones’ Red Wedding packs such an emotional impact

But at heart, past that first shock, the Red Wedding floors readers and viewers because it’s the death of hope.

The majority of fantasy stories are about escapism and wish-fulfillment, and about the catharsis that comes when a deserving champion punishes and defeats an equally deserving villain. The protagonists may have setbacks and disappointments, they may make sacrifices, but they don’t die ignominiously, choking on their own blood, while their enemies gloat.

by Tasha Robinson

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Why Game Of Thrones’ Red Wedding packs such an emotional impact | TV | For Our Consideration | The A.V. Club