Celebrate Game of Thrones’ 7th anniversary with the 7 best episodes

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Season 4: “The Mountain and the Viper”

Many things stand out this season. King Joffrey meets a fitting end. Littlefinger pushes Lysa Arryn through the moon door. Tyrion’s trial where his angry outburst is still one of the most memorable monologues of the entire series. “I did not kill Joffrey, but I wish that I had!” Always gets me.

But nothing gave me more of an emotional rollercoaster ride than episode eight. Because I don’t trust George R. R. Martin as far as I can throw him, I thought for sure he would kill off my favorite character, Tyrion. He always kills the good guys.

So, when he requests a trial by combat, I thought for sure he was toast. But here comes Oberyn, whom we have gotten to know very well throughout season four.

Audiences loved him! I loved him! Not only does he decide to fight on Tyrion’s behalf, but he also has a personal vendetta against the Lannisters. There’s a glimmer of hope for Tyrion.

When it seems as if Oberyn is going to beat Ser Gregor “The Mountain” Clegane, his cockiness gets the best of him, and the Mountain gouges his eyes out, killing him. In a series with many WTF moments, this is right at the top.
Another notable event in this episode is Ser Jorah receiving his pardon for spying on Daenerys all those years ago. When he admits to his actions to her, she exiles him, breaking his heart.