Have you ever found yourself enchanted by tales of humble heroes rising to meet grand destinies, particularly when set against a backdrop of sprawling kingdoms and ancient magic? If the unique charm of 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms' has captured your imagination, focusing on the unlikely bond between Ser Duncan the Tall and his squire Egg, then a wealth of other captivating narratives awaits. These shows, much like 'a knight's' journey, delve into themes of power, loyalty, and the human spirit, offering a fresh perspective on the wider 'Game of Thrones' universe's sprawling tapestry while exploring the lives of those often overlooked by history's grander narratives (Routinova Editorial, 2024). This curated list explores series that resonate with the spirit of Dunk and Egg, whether through their medieval settings, fantasy elements, or the compelling dynamics between their central characters.
The Spirit of Adventure: Underdogs and Grand Destinies
The core appeal of 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms' lies in its focus on characters navigating a complex world from a lower station, often with a greater destiny looming. These narratives emphasize personal growth, unexpected mentorships, and the courage to forge one's own path, making them perfect shows like 'a knight's' tale of rising against the odds.
Alchemy of Souls (2022 - 2023)
This acclaimed South Korean fantasy drama offers a rich blend of action, romance, and intricate lore, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with any Western medieval epic. Set in the fictional realm of Daeho, reminiscent of Korea's Joseon era, it centers on Jang Uk, a noble whose magical powers were sealed at birth. His path intertwines with Nak-su, a formidable assassin whose soul is magically transferred into the body of a weak woman. Their pact--she becomes his public squire while secretly training him in magic and combat--forms the heart of the series, echoing the mentor-student dynamic and hidden potential seen in Westeros (Global Fantasy Review, 2023). The show excels in its world-building and character development, offering a truly immersive experience.
Merlin (2008 - 2012)
For those who appreciate a lighter, yet equally compelling, take on medieval destiny and unlikely friendships, Merlin is an excellent choice. This British fantasy adventure reimagines the legendary tales of Camelot, focusing on a young Merlin who arrives in a kingdom where magic is outlawed. Guided by a powerful dragon, he must secretly protect Prince Arthur, a headstrong royal destined to unite the land. The dynamic between Merlin and Arthur, initially one of strained servitude and eventual deep loyalty, mirrors the evolving bond between Dunk and Egg, highlighting themes of responsibility and hidden greatness (Mythic Lore Journal, 2022).
The Witcher (2019 - )
Based on the popular novels and video games, The Witcher plunges viewers into a sprawling dark fantasy world filled with monsters, magic, and morally gray choices. Geralt of Rivia, a genetically enhanced monster hunter, finds his destiny intertwined with Princess Ciri, a young woman with immense, untamed power. Their journey, marked by perilous quests and the constant threat of war, showcases a protector-and-ward relationship that resonates with the bond between a knight and their squire, albeit with more fantastical elements. The series, much like 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms', explores what it means to be a hero in a world that often fears or misunderstands its saviors.
The Last Kingdom (2015 - 2022)
Set in 9th-century England, The Last Kingdom delivers a gritty, action-packed historical drama that follows Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a Saxon noble raised by Vikings. Constantly torn between his birthright and his upbringing, Uhtred fights for his identity and his place in a fractured land. His journey is one of relentless struggle, strategic alliances, and unwavering loyalty to those he deems worthy. Like Ser Duncan, Uhtred is often an outsider, a formidable warrior navigating the treacherous politics of kings and warlords, making it one of the compelling shows like 'a knight's' saga of personal conviction amidst grand conflicts (Historical Drama Insights, 2023).
Epic Sagas and Political Intrigue
While 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms' narrows its focus, it still exists within the grand political tapestry of Westeros. This section highlights series that delve into expansive worlds, intricate power struggles, and the high stakes of royal ambition, offering a broader perspective on the forces that shape heroes and villains alike.
House of the Dragon (2022 - )
An undeniable choice for fans of Westeros, House of the Dragon serves as a direct prequel to Game of Thrones, depicting the Targaryen dynasty at the height of its power. Set centuries before the events of the original series and 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms', it meticulously chronicles the devastating civil war known as the Dance of the Dragons. While focusing on the ruling elite, the series still portrays the personal ambitions, tragic flaws, and complex relationships that drive history, offering a deeper understanding of the world Dunk and Egg inhabit. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of George R.R. Martin's universe.
Shōgun (2024 - )
Transporting viewers to feudal Japan at the cusp of its Warring States period, Shōgun is a masterful adaptation of James Clavell's novel. It tells the story of English navigator John Blackthorne, shipwrecked in Japan and thrust into the intricate political landscape dominated by Lord Yoshii Toranaga. The series excels in its portrayal of cultural clashes, cunning strategies, and the profound impact of individual choices on the fate of an entire nation. The relationships forged out of necessity and the struggle for survival in a foreign land echo the challenges faced by characters in any epic historical or fantasy drama, including shows like 'a knight's' quest for belonging (Entertainment Weekly, 2024).
The Wheel of Time (2021 - 2025)
Based on Robert Jordan's epic fantasy series, The Wheel of Time introduces a vast, magical world on the brink of a cataclysmic event. The story follows Moiraine Damodred, a powerful magic-user, as she gathers a group of young villagers, one of whom is prophesied to be the Dragon Reborn - a figure destined to either save or destroy the world. While grander in scope than 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms', its focus on ordinary individuals thrust into extraordinary circumstances, learning about the wider world's dangers alongside the audience, provides a relatable entry point into its sprawling narrative. The themes of destiny, choice, and the fight against encroaching darkness are universal.
The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (2022 - )
Journey back to Middle-earth thousands of years before Frodo's quest with The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power. This prequel series explores the forging of the Rings of Power and the rise of the Dark Lord Sauron. While featuring iconic characters like a younger Galadriel, the narrative also dedicates significant time to the struggles of less powerful folk - Harfoots, humans, and dwarves - whose lives are deeply impacted by the machinations of elves and rulers. This dual perspective, contrasting the powerful with the humble, offers a similar narrative richness to 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms', exploring how grand events ripple through all levels of society (Tolkien Studies, 2023).
Shadow and Bone (2021 - 2023)
Adapted from Leigh Bardugo's popular Grishaverse novels, Shadow and Bone presents a unique dark fantasy world inspired by Imperial Russia. The story centers on Alina Starkov, a cartographer who discovers she possesses a rare power that could destroy the Shadow Fold, a monstrous expanse of darkness dividing her country. As she trains with the magical elite, she uncovers political conspiracies and the true nature of power. The series excels in its intricate world-building, compelling ensemble cast, and themes of identity, belonging, and the burden of being a "chosen one" - elements that will resonate with anyone drawn to shows like 'a knight's' journey of self-discovery and destiny.
Historical Echoes and Gritty Realism
Some of the most engaging narratives draw their strength from historical settings and the raw, unvarnished struggles of humanity, even without overt fantasy. These shows provide a grounded counterpoint, demonstrating that compelling drama can be found in the real-world challenges of medieval or ancient times, much like the historical underpinnings of Westeros.
Vinland Saga (2019 - 2023)
This visually stunning anime series is a masterclass in historical fiction, depicting 11th-century England amidst Viking conquests. Following the fictionalized journey of Thorfinn Karlsefni, a historical Icelandic explorer, the narrative initially focuses on his quest for vengeance against a Viking warlord. As the series progresses, Thorfinn grapples with the horrors of violence and seeks a path towards peace and a new land. Its nuanced exploration of morality, war, and the human condition, set against a meticulously researched historical backdrop, offers a depth that will appeal to those who appreciate the historical authenticity beneath the fantasy of shows like 'a knight's' adventures (Anime Historian Quarterly, 2023).
The Pillars of the Earth (2010)
Based on Ken Follett's monumental novel, this historical drama transports viewers to 12th-century England during 'The Anarchy', a period of civil war. The series follows the ambitious mason Tom Builder and his family as they endeavor to construct a magnificent cathedral in the fictional town of Kingsbridge. While devoid of dragons or magic, The Pillars of the Earth shares with 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms' a profound sense of individuals navigating incredibly fraught times, often at the fringes of power. It's a story of perseverance, faith, and the enduring human spirit against a backdrop of political upheaval and personal tragedy, brought to life by a stellar cast (Medieval Studies Review, 2022).
Those About to Die (2024)
For a grand, visceral look at historical spectacle and human struggle, Those About to Die offers a captivating, albeit often brutal, experience. Set in the Roman Empire during the reign of Emperor Vespasian, the series explores the gladiatorial games and the lives of those connected to them, from the emperor's sons vying for power to the proprietors of the betting taverns and the enslaved fighters themselves. It's a saga of ambition, betrayal, and survival, focusing on characters who, despite their varied statuses, are all navigating a cutthroat world where power is everything. The series provides an engaging perspective on the fringes of power, much like the common folk in shows like 'a knight's' journey.
Warrior Nun (2020 - 2022)
Blending urban fantasy with religious lore and action, Warrior Nun tells the story of Ava Silva, a quadriplegic orphan who wakes up in a morgue with a divine artifact embedded in her back, granting her superpowers. She soon discovers she is the chosen Halo Bearer for an ancient order of demon-hunting nuns. The series features a compelling underdog protagonist, a secret society, and a fight against supernatural forces, all while Ava grapples with her newfound destiny and the responsibilities it entails. Its unique blend of modern grit and fantastical elements provides a fresh take on the 'chosen one' trope that fans of shows like 'a knight's' unexpected rise will appreciate.
