In House of the Dragon Season 3, the Red Keep faces a growing pest control crisis after King Aegon II executed the city’s ratcatchers in the aftermath of the “Blood and Cheese” incident. As reported by Mashable, Alyn of Hull offers a solution rooted in maritime history: the introduction of cats to manage the rodent population within the palace walls.
The Maritime Strategy Behind Alyn of Hull’s Proposal
Alyn of Hull, a naval war hero and son of Lord Corlys Velaryon, draws upon his experience at sea to address the infestation. According to Mashable, Alyn notes that on naval vessels, sailors historically relied on cats to keep confined spaces free of vermin. This practice aligns with documented maritime traditions; the National Museums Liverpool confirms that, until the practice was banned by the Royal Navy in 1975, cats were standard “crew members” tasked with controlling rodent populations on long voyages. These animals were often treated with high regard, occasionally receiving their own uniforms and recognition for their service during conflicts like World War II.
Did you know?
During World War II, ship’s cats were often considered symbols of bravery. Some, like the cat ‘Convoy’ aboard the H.M.S. Hermione, became well-known mascots for their role in keeping the ship’s stores safe from pests.
Comparing Source Material and Screen Adaptation
The show’s pivot to Alyn of Hull for pest management marks a departure from George R. R. Martin’s source text, Fire and Blood. In the original novel, it is Otto Hightower who secures the Red Keep by importing 100 cats to eradicate the rats. Because Otto is incapacitated in the current narrative, the responsibility falls to Alyn, providing a moment of character development for the Velaryon sailor.
The Legacy of Feline Residents in Westeros
The introduction of a feline population into the Red Keep invites speculation regarding the lineage of future notable animals in the franchise. Fans have noted the potential link between these new palace cats and Ser Pounce, the beloved pet of King Tommen Baratheon, who later appears in Game of Thrones. While the show has yet to confirm a direct genetic link, the presence of a “centurion of felines” inside the Red Keep provides a clear historical precedent for the later royal pets of King’s Landing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the ratcatchers removed from the Red Keep?
King Aegon II ordered the execution of all ratcatchers in the city during Season 2 following the “Blood and Cheese” tragedy, leaving the palace without its primary defense against rodents.
Is the use of ship’s cats historically accurate?
Yes. According to the National Museums Liverpool, keeping cats on ships was a common practice in the Royal Navy for centuries to protect supplies from rats and mice, continuing until the practice was officially banned in 1975.
How does the show’s solution differ from the book?
In George R. R. Martin’s Fire and Blood, Otto Hightower is responsible for bringing 100 cats into the Red Keep to solve the infestation. In the television adaptation, Alyn of Hull suggests the strategy to Queen Rhaenyra.
Pro Tip:
Keep an eye on the background of scenes set in the Red Keep throughout Season 3. As the feline population grows to combat the infestation, eagle-eyed viewers may spot these new “crew members” integrated into the palace environment.
House of the Dragon Season 3 is currently streaming on Max, with new episodes airing Sundays at 9 p.m. ET on HBO and Max. Have a theory about the fate of the Red Keep’s new feline residents? Join the conversation in the comments below.
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