So, there’s long been allusion to the Iron Bank of Braavos on the HBO series Game of Thrones. Less than is in the books — heck, we only ever really heard any significant, consistent talk of it this season — but still enough to know there’s something going on there. It wasn’t until “The Laws of Gods and Men,” however, that we were actually brought face-to-face with this ominous power money. This shadowy collective has, it seems, loomed large over the ruling actions of Westeros for a long, long time — and is slowly turning into a far more major player than we, at least initially, anticipated. With Tycho Nestoris and co. bankrolling the power players of Westeros (well, OK: mainly just the Lannisters at this point), there’s a lot more at play here than we really ever anticipated.
But what, exactly, is this freaky powerful Iron Bank and how did it get started? And why do we care about this Braavosi institution above all other banks that author/creator George R.R. Martin has told us exist in the Free Cities? Well that’s why HBO sat Martin down to provide a wee educational moment regarding the who, what, where, when, why, and how of these all-powerful moneylenders. And we have it, below:
So… let me get this straight: there’s an ominous group of money-lenders that’s quietly pulling the strings of Westerosi politics from an entire continent away all while the run-of-the-mill smallfolk inhabitants sit about twiddling their thumbs unaware? Well then! Guess there’s a lot about the Realm’s politics that relate to the comings and goings of our world governments today (cough).
What do you think of the Iron Bank? Let us know in the comments.
I have sat and thought and talked and thought again. I wonder if George has something amazing under his hat to enlighten and awaken Earthly civilizations today. Hmmmmm
In a 100 years there will be more of an interest in bitcoins.
I speculate that they have their hands in a LOT more of the politics of Westeros than the feuding families realize. Just like in the real world, money controls everything, from the most powerful rulers to the poorest slaves.
The Laws of Gods and Men is proof positive that Mycroft Holmes stands in the shadows and pulls the strings of the world even in Westeros!
I for one am wondering what their rates are for a basic checking account and how high their ATM fees are. Gotta be cheaper than Bank of America.
They are probably more on par with Gringotts. Maybe 2 Galleons and 8 Sickles a year in annual fees.