Unseen Details: Why Women Notice Gilly and Daenerys’ Pregnancies in S8E2
Game of Thrones, a show known for its intricate plotlines and complex characters, often leaves viewers with something to ponder even after the credits roll. In S8E2, two notable characters, Gilly (Jon Snow’s wet nurse) and Daenerys Targaryen, both mysterious and powerful in their own rights, find themselves pregnant amidst conflict and turmoil.
Why Women Notice These Subtle Differences
As a man, I can empathize with the idea that subtle details like these might not be immediately recognizable. Men, often adapted to recognize and respond to threats in their environment, have traditionally focused more on physical danger and less on the subtle changes that can indicate a pregnancy.
A Woman’s Perception
Women, on the other hand, have evolved to notice small and often unremarkable changes in behavior, mood, and physical appearance. This sensitivity to subtle cues is not just a product of gender but a survival mechanism that has allowed women to notice changes in others, such as a potential health issue or the onset of pregnancy.
Pregnancy Detection: A Women’s Perspective
When we talk about noticing things like pregnancy, women often share stories about recognizing the 'baby bump' before it is visibly apparent, noticing changes in routines and suddenly recognizing a different kind of tiredness or mood swings. These are the subtle cues that make it possible to identify pregnancy early.
Gilly and Daenerys: Observations and Subtleties
For Gilly, a commoner and the anonymous wet nurse to Jon Snow, a sudden change in her life circumstances could be easily overlooked by someone who is accustomed to looking for danger, like a sexual assault or a plot twist. Her pregnancy, while significant for the narrative, might not be immediately apparent to a male viewer because it doesn’t fit the traditional expectations of physical violence or immediate conflict.
Daenerys Targaryen’s Complex Subtlety
Daenerys, a queen leading a massive army, is even more complex. Initially, she presents herself as a powerful and meticulous ruler, but her pregnancy brings a different kind of vulnerability and focus. This is a significant shift in her character that might go unnoticed by a male viewer more attuned to her political negotiations and battles.
The Role of Cultural Knowledge and Media Familiarity
The awareness of characters and their meanings in the show often comes from cultural knowledge and familiarity with the media. Women, who often engage in deeper discussions about the TV shows they watch, tend to pick up on these finer details. They not only watch but also analyze character development and plot twists, making them more likely to notice these changes in the characters.
Gendered Implications
While it is true that men have different strengths and may focus on different aspects of a show, it does not mean that women are better at noticing every detail. What women tend to excel at is recognizing the emotional and psychological shifts in characters. This is a skill that has evolved over generations as a means of survival and social cohesion.
Conclusion: A Nerd Feminist Perspective on Game of Thrones
It is not just about noticing the obvious but also about recognizing the subtle emotional and physical changes that make characters come alive on screen. In the end, these details add to the richness and depth of the narrative, making the show more engaging and meaningful for all viewers.