The 8 most empowering Game of Thrones episodes for women

Season 7, Episode 7: “The Dragon and the Wolf”

Arya and Sansa Stark are on complete opposite sides of the spectrum when it comes to femininity and strength—with Arya being the less girlish sister, showcasing her strength physically, and Sansa being more feminine and demonstrating more mental strength. Given their differences, it’s probably not surprising that the two rarely got along during childhood. At the beginning of the series, the Stark sisters were constantly at one another’s throats.

The two have come a long way since the first season of Game of Thrones, however, and that fact is never more apparent than during the final episode of the seventh season, “The Dragon and the Wolf.” Upon their reunion at Winterfell, it seems like the Stark sisters have gained a newfound respect for one another—enough so that they’ll watch each other’s backs—but Littlefinger does try to take advantage of their differences.

When Sansa asks her guards to bring Arya to the Great Hall, it’s a nerve-wracking moments for fans. Will Sansa fall for the same traps as her mother and wedge a gap between herself and her sister at Littlefinger’s behest? Will the Stark sisters return to their former contempt for one another?

Thankfully, the series takes things in a far more feminist direction. As it turns out, Sansa and Arya caught onto Littlefinger’s plan—and laid a trap that he walked directly into. When Sansa accuses Littlefinger of murder and treason in front of a hall full of onlookers, it’s a clap-worthy moment. And Arya’s comment — “My sister asked you a question” — only makes the moment sweeter.

This scene once again emphasizes Sansa’s character growth, showing her ability to take charge and protect her people—even if it forces her to make a difficult decision. But it also highlights the relationship between Arya and Sansa, demonstrating that women of all backgrounds and personalities can support one another in spite of all their differences. And there’s nothing we love more than queens supporting queens.

Which episode do you think is most empowering for the women of Westeros? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.