Simply put…
There are an overwhelming number of similarities between Bloodraven and Hypnos, the Greek god of sleep.
Investigating these similarities leads to a couple of interesting ideas:
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The similarities are intentional, and suggest an homage by Martin to Virgil’s epic Aeneid.
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It further incorporates ideas from other Greek epics and myths.
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Finally, the idea leads to some very interesting (and perhaps reaching) speculations about future events, including the god of death, demonic possession and incest.
This essay hopes to be a relaxed stroll through these ideas, hoping not to make any specific claims about what’s truthfully happening in A Song of Ice and Fire. Instead I just want to point out the symmetry and speculations, hopefully something that you’ll enjoy thinking about. Continue reading
