The opening scene of Season 2 takes place on the battlements of the Red Keep, where King Joffrey Baratheon’s Name Day celebration turns into a display of cruelty as he oversees a tournament from above the courtyard.
The Scene Breakdown
The Domino: Sparing Ser Dontos Next Scene
Ser Dontos Hollard arrives late to the Name Day celebration and is condemned by King Joffrey, who orders him executed by drowning in a cask of wine. Sansa Stark intervenes, persuading Joffrey to spare him and instead make him a court fool.
The Unintended Catalyst for Joffrey’s Death
By sparing Ser Dontos, Sansa preserves the man who will later deliver the amethyst necklace containing the Strangler poison into her possession.
Had Joffrey followed through with the execution on the battlements that day, this specific assassination mechanism might never have reached the royal feast at all, resulting in the Purple Wedding as we know it today.
Filming Locations Featured in This Scene
Click below to explore the filming locations featured in this scene, including their history, real-world setting, photos, and visitor guides.
