14) Locke Takes Jaime’s Hand
Random acts of violence are peppered liberally throughout Game of Thrones. It’s part of the makeup of George R.R. Martin’s universe: anyone may die, or be horribly mutilated, at any moment. In season three episode “Walk of Punishment,” it’s Jaime Lannister’s turn to feel the pain.
Captured by Noah Taylor’s psychopathic Locke and his band of murderous Bolton bannermen, Jaime probably thinks he’s saved the day for himself and Brienne by bargaining, offering Locke jewels and Lannister gold. So, Locke unchains Jaime, and leads him to what he thinks is dinner – before kicking him to the dirt, brandishing a carving knife and cutting off his famed sword hand. Jaime seems just as stunned about the incident as we are.
13) Tyrion’s Double Retribution
It’s difficult to say which is the most shocking of the two murders Tyrion carries out at the close of season four. Is it that of his father, or of the lover that betrayed him? The parent with whom he always shared a mutual loathing, or the scorned woman that almost got him executed for a murder he didn’t commit?
Tywin Lannister’s demise is certainly one of the most memorable in Thrones death scenes – it gives us the sight of the great Charles Dance, killed by crossbow while sat on the privy. But we always sensed the animosity between him and his children would see one of the Lannister kids snap one day. Perhaps more shocking is Tyrion killing Shae, the love of his life, by strangling her with the golden chain he previously gave to her as a gift.
12) Stannis Sacrifices Shireen
The moment where Stannis Baratheon’s obsession churns into pure madness isn’t entirely unexpected. For four seasons, we’re witness to the would-be-king becoming evermore desperate, almost sacrificing his bastard nephew Gendry and his closest companion, Davos, as his lust for the throne increases and his chance of ruling Westeros begins to slip further and further away.
Stannis’ final undoing sees him sacrifice his own daughter, in one of the show’s bleakest, most unsettling scenes. The sacrificial fire to the Lord of the Light burning Shireen to death is kept off-screen, but potentially more horrifying is Stannis’ reaction, as his daughter screams and we see on his face the regret of a man who knows he’s sold his soul for a crown.