To prepare for , titled " The North Remembers ," you should focus on the shifting power dynamics following the death of Ned Stark. While the series pilot was famously titled "Winter is Coming," the Season 2 premiere marks the actual start of the War of the Five Kings . Essential Plot Points to Review
: Still serving as Robb Stark's trusted friend and advisor, though he is soon sent back to his father on the Iron Islands to seek an alliance. Watch List Recommendation [S2E1] Winter is Coming
: Stannis Baratheon, the late King Robert's eldest brother, formally makes his claim to the throne and adopts the faith of the Lord of Light under the influence of the red priestess Melisandre. Key Character Status To prepare for , titled " The North
: King Joffrey holds the Iron Throne in King's Landing, while his uncle Tyrion Lannister arrives to serve as the new Acting Hand of the King , much to Cersei's chagrin. Watch List Recommendation : Stannis Baratheon, the late
For a visual refresher on the state of Westeros at the start of Season 2, you can watch this recap: