It’s hard to believe that it’s been a decade since Game of Thrones first premiered on HBO. The show quickly became a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with its intricate plotlines, stunning visuals, and unforgettable characters. But perhaps one of the most enduring legacies of Game of Thrones is its impact on internet culture, particularly the world of memes.
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The Rise of Game of Thrones Memes
As soon as the show premiered, fans began creating memes based on their favorite characters and moments. From the epic battles to the shocking deaths, Game of Thrones provided endless fodder for meme-makers. One of the earliest and most popular memes was the “Winter is Coming” meme, which featured the Stark family motto as well as various images of characters bundled up for winter.
Another popular meme was the “You Know Nothing, Jon Snow” meme, based on the recurring phrase uttered by Ygritte, a wildling who falls in love with Jon Snow. The meme typically featured a picture of Ygritte with the quote overlaid in bold letters.
But as the show progressed, so did the memes. One of the most memorable memes of the later seasons was the “Hold the Door” meme, which was based on a heartbreaking scene in which a character named Hodor sacrifices himself to save his friends. The meme typically featured a picture of Hodor with the phrase “Hold the Door” repeated over and over again.
The Funniest Game of Thrones Memes
Over the years, there have been countless Game of Thrones memes, but some have stood out as particularly hilarious or clever. Here are just a few of the best:
“I Drink and I Know Things”
This meme is based on a line uttered by Tyrion Lannister, one of the show’s most beloved characters. The meme typically features a picture of Tyrion with the phrase “I Drink and I Know Things” overlaid in bold letters. It’s a perfect encapsulation of Tyrion’s witty and irreverent personality.
“Shame!”
This meme is based on a scene in which a character named Cersei Lannister is forced to walk through the streets of King’s Landing naked as punishment for her crimes. As she makes her way through the crowd, a religious zealot follows her and repeatedly chants “Shame!” The meme typically features a picture of Cersei with the word “Shame!” overlaid in bold letters.
“Dracarys”
This meme is based on a phrase used by Daenerys Targaryen, a character known for her dragons and her quest to reclaim the Iron Throne. The phrase, which means “dragonfire” in High Valyrian, is typically used in the show as a command for her dragons to breathe fire. The meme typically features a picture of Daenerys with the word “Dracarys” overlaid in bold letters.
The Legacy of Game of Thrones Memes
Despite the mixed reactions to the final season of Game of Thrones, the show’s impact on internet culture is undeniable. The memes created by fans have become a cultural touchstone, with people still referencing them and sharing them years after the show ended. They’ve also inspired countless other memes and internet trends, proving that the influence of Game of Thrones will continue long after the show itself has faded from memory.
But what do people who were involved in the show think about the memes? In an interview with The Guardian, actor Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, who played Jaime Lannister, said, “I love them. I think it’s fantastic that people are that creative and come up with this stuff. It’s amazing. Some of them are hilarious.”
Similarly, director David Nutter, who directed several key episodes of the show, said in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, “It’s very flattering that people enjoy the show so much that they want to make memes about it. And it’s really fantastic to see the creativity that comes out of it.”
Conclusion
Game of Thrones may be over, but its impact on internet culture will live on for years to come. The memes created by fans have become a beloved part of the show’s legacy, and they continue to inspire laughter and creativity long after the show has ended. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just someone who enjoys a good meme, there’s no denying the enduring appeal of the Game of Thrones memes.
