What is a Fortnight in Game of Thrones?
Introduction
Game of Thrones is a popular television series that has captivated audiences worldwide with its intricate plot, complex characters, and rich world-building. One of the most fascinating aspects of the show is its unique calendar system, which is based on a medieval-inspired concept of time measurement. In this article, we will delve into the concept of a fortnight in Game of Thrones and explore its significance in the world of Westeros.
What is a Fortnight?
A fortnight, in the context of Game of Thrones, refers to a period of 14 days. This may seem like a straightforward concept, but it is crucial to understand the importance of the fortnight in the show’s world. In Westeros, the traditional way of measuring time is based on a combination of days, weeks, and fortnights. The show’s creators, David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, have stated that they used a medieval-inspired calendar system to create a sense of authenticity and historical accuracy.
Significance of the Fortnight
The fortnight plays a significant role in the world of Game of Thrones, particularly in the context of the show’s storylines and character arcs. Here are some key points to consider:
- Payment cycles: In the show, characters are often paid in gold coins, which are used as a form of currency. The fortnight is used as a payment cycle, with characters receiving their wages every 14 days.
- Military operations: The fortnight is also used to plan and execute military operations. Armies would often march for a fortnight before engaging in battle, giving them time to regroup and replenish their supplies.
- Social etiquette: In Westeros, the fortnight is used to govern social etiquette. For example, a fortnight is considered a reasonable amount of time for a noble to visit a lord or lady, and a fortnight is also the standard time for a lord to respond to an invitation or request.
Examples of the Fortnight in Game of Thrones
Here are some examples of the fortnight in action in Game of Thrones:
- The Night’s Watch: In the show, the Night’s Watch is a group of sworn brothers who guard the Wall, a massive structure that separates the Seven Kingdoms from the lands beyond. The Night’s Watch operates on a fortnightly schedule, with brothers receiving their wages every 14 days.
- The Lannisters: The Lannisters, one of the most powerful families in Westeros, use the fortnight to manage their finances. In the show, we see Tyrion Lannister, the Imp, receiving his wages every fortnight from his father, Tywin Lannister.
- The Battle of the Blackwater Bay: In the show, the Battle of the Blackwater Bay is a pivotal event that takes place during a fortnight. The Lannisters, led by King Joffrey, engage in a massive battle against the Starks and their allies, with the outcome determining the fate of the Seven Kingdoms.
Comparison to Real-World Time Measurement
In the real world, the concept of a fortnight is not commonly used as a unit of time measurement. However, there are some similarities between the Game of Thrones calendar system and our own. For example:
- Fortnightly newspapers: In the 19th and early 20th centuries, many newspapers were published on a fortnightly basis, with issues appearing every 14 days.
- Fortnightly meetings: In some businesses and organizations, meetings may be held on a fortnightly basis, with attendees gathering every 14 days to discuss important issues.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the fortnight is a crucial concept in the world of Game of Thrones, used to measure time, govern social etiquette, and plan military operations. The show’s creators have used a medieval-inspired calendar system to create a sense of authenticity and historical accuracy, and the fortnight is an integral part of this system. Whether you’re a fan of the show or simply interested in the world of Westeros, understanding the concept of a fortnight is essential to fully appreciating the world of Game of Thrones.
Table: Measurement of Time in Game of Thrones
| Measurement | Duration |
|---|---|
| Day | 24 hours |
| Week | 7 days |
| Fortnight | 14 days |
| Month | 30-31 days |
| Year | 12 months |
Bullets List: Key Points to Remember
- A fortnight is a period of 14 days in the world of Game of Thrones.
- The fortnight is used to measure time, govern social etiquette, and plan military operations.
- The show’s creators used a medieval-inspired calendar system to create a sense of authenticity and historical accuracy.
- The fortnight is an integral part of the Game of Thrones world, used by characters to plan and execute important events.
- Understanding the concept of a fortnight is essential to fully appreciating the world of Game of Thrones.