Discuss how Martin uses interiority to develop the novel’s perspective characters. Assess the novel’s treatment of each of the perspective characters. Which characters had incomplete or superficial arcs?

What is Martin’s position on the values of nobility that mark stereotypical medieval or fantasy stories? To support your position, cite instances in the novel where Martin either follows or subverts the traditions and tropes of these stories.

Although Martin has stated that the A Song of Ice and Fire series was inspired by the War of the Roses, it is easy to find other parallels between his novels and classic works of literature, such as the epic poems of Homer and the plays of Shakespeare. Select one such parallel and discuss how the resonance between the two works modifies your understanding of their shared themes.