I think that the Dothraki are very important to the storyline of Game of Thrones. While they are feared, they are not truly seen as a threat to Westeros because they are unwilling to cross the Narrow Sea between Essos and Westeros. Also, the Dothraki are seen as uncivilized brutes by the people of Westeros, like how Europeans saw the people of Africa and Asia as inferior. Daenerys’ relationship with the Dothraki is interesting because it has enabled her to become a stronger and more powerful character. In the earlier episodes of the season, Daenerys felt trapped and enslaved. However, now Daenerys has risen to become a powerful Khaleesi. Her newfound power is demonstrated when Viserys had the molten gold poured over his head. When this happened, Daenerys realized how loyal and committed the Dothraki were to her. Daenerys’ power also makes the Dothraki seem like more of a threat to those in Westeros. This is exhibited by Robert’s demand that Daenerys needs to be killed, because Daenerys now has an entire army that is loyal enough to help her take back her father’s throne.
I feel like that scene were the Dothraki kill her brother was her first triumph. Even though it was so brutal, as a viewer I even felt a triumphant victory because I could not stand him at all. It is ironic that her source of power is what originally made her feel trapped, being a pawn to make allies with the Dothraki. Her story line is intriguing and so far my favorite to follow.
really nicely put "her source of power is what originally made her feel trapped." I think this is why her arc is very satisfying.
Very clearly and thoughtfully explained! I'd be interested to hear what you think about how the two parts of your analysis fit together. You're right on the money about the orientalist themes in the the Dothraki--what do we make about the fact that Daenerys, a Westerner (westerosian?), becomes their defacto leader? How does that play into or complicate the themes around the uncivilized Dothraki?