HBO’s Game of Thrones, based on George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire novels, became one of the most influential TV series of all time. With its political intrigue, brutal wars, and complex characters, the show feels deeply realistic — almost like it could have happened in some lost chapter of human history. But many viewers often wonder: Is Game of Thrones a real story?
Let’s explore the facts, inspirations, and historical roots that shaped this fantasy masterpiece.
The Short Answer
No, Game of Thrones is not a real story. It is a fictional fantasy series set in the mythical continents of Westeros and Essos. However, George R.R. Martin drew heavy inspiration from real-world history, especially medieval Europe, the British monarchy, and historical conflicts like the Wars of the Roses.
In other words — while the characters and kingdoms are fictional, their struggles mirror real historical power battles.
The Real-Life Inspiration: The Wars of the Roses
One of the biggest influences behind Game of Thrones is the Wars of the Roses (1455–1487) — a series of English civil wars fought between two rival royal families:
| House in History | House in Game of Thrones | Symbol |
| House Lancaster | House Lannister | Lion |
| House York | House Stark | Direwolf |
The Wars of the Roses were fought for control of the English throne, just like the Iron Throne in the series. Betrayals, political marriages, and assassinations were common — elements that mirror the bloody politics of Westeros.
Historical Figures Who Inspired GOT Characters
Many of Martin’s characters were influenced by real historical figures:
- Cersei Lannister – Inspired by Margaret of Anjou, a ruthless queen who fought for her son’s right to rule and was known for her political cunning.
- Robert Baratheon – Resembles Edward IV of England, a strong warrior who became an indulgent king.
- Daenerys Targaryen – Parallels Henry Tudor (Henry VII), who returned from exile to claim his throne after defeating rivals.
- The Night’s Watch – Inspired by the Hadrian’s Wall garrison in Northern England, built by the Romans to guard against tribes from the north — just like the Wall in the North of Westeros.
These parallels show how Martin turned real people and events into mythical tales of ambition and survival.
Other Historical and Cultural Influences
Besides British history, Game of Thrones incorporates elements from:
- The Mongol Empire – Reflected in the Dothraki culture and their nomadic, warrior traditions.
- The Crusades – Echoed in the religious wars led by the Faith Militant.
- Medieval Europe – Seen in the castles, feudal politics, and social hierarchies of Westeros.
The author’s fascination with the dark side of human nature and the brutality of medieval power struggles makes the world of Game of Thrones feel historically authentic even within a fantasy setting.
Fantasy Meets Reality
While the dragons, magic, and White Walkers are pure fantasy, the show’s political realism, moral ambiguity, and emphasis on human emotion are what make it believable. Martin himself has said that he prefers “historical fiction with dragons” — meaning he builds fantasy atop a foundation of historical truth.
✅ Final Verdict
So, is Game of Thrones a real story? No — but it’s deeply rooted in real history.
The kingdoms, battles, and betrayals of Westeros are fictional, yet they draw powerfully from real medieval Europe and its bloody quest for thrones.
In essence, Game of Thrones is not a historical record — it’s a reflection of history, reimagined with dragons, ice, and fire. The show’s genius lies in how it transforms the chaos of human history into a world where the fight for power is as real as ever — only this time, winter is always coming.
Santosh Kumar is a Professional SEO and Blogger, With the help of this blog he is trying to share top 10 lists, facts, entertainment news from India and all around the world.
