Why Sir Criston Cole's 'hypocrisy' in 'House of the Dragon' Season 2 raises questions about honor and oaths
Contains spoilers for 'House of the Dragon'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: 'House of the Dragon' Season 2 Episode 1 premiered on HBO on Sunday, June 16, 2024, delivering the layered epic-action adventure fans anticipated.
Viewers were surprised when Criston Cole (Fabien Frankel) was revealed to be physically involved with Alicent Hightower (Olivia Cooke).
Criston Cole had always been a close ally of Alicent Hightower since the first season, but seeing them engage in a physical relationship was a shock for fans, especially since it occurred soon after the death of Viserys Targaryen (Paddy Considine).
It also raises questions about whether they had been physically involved earlier as well.
Fans were particularly upset with Criston Cole for his perceived hypocrisy, as he blamed himself for his relationship with Rhaenyra Targaryen (Emma D'Arcy), considering it a stain on the white cloak and a dishonor to the Kingsguard's honor.
'House of the Dragon' Season 2 fans call out Criston Cole's hypocrisy online
Fans were upset with Criston Cole, who held a high moral ground for himself in his youth and as a Kingsguard, but let desire get the best of him on more than one occasion.
A Reddit user said, "He had this whole idea of what it meant to be in the kings guard and took his oaths and vows seriously. Then grew up and realized how the world actually works. But yeah Cole is ridiculous."
Another Reddit user said, "I say this as someone who loved their chemistry in s1, I hated this and the way they did it, reduced Olivia to cheap shock value," referring to how the relationship could have remained one of allies.
One Reddit user said "They hated Rhynera for similar behavior and then they engaged in that. I don't think that it's misogynistic to say that a hypocrite is a hypocrite. This applies to Criston too, a character I deeply despise."
Another Reddit user expressed satisfaction that Rhaenyra had distanced herself from these two toxic individuals she was once close with, saying, "Rhaenyra dodged a bullet. Her instinct to cut both of them out of her life as much as possible was DEAD ON."
"Show Criston Cole is just annoying with little to no redeeming qualities. He's not even entertaining in the scenes he's in. Not the worst person but certainly a bland hypocrite," noted another Reddit user.
In defense of Criston Cole and Alicent Hightower
While fans online may be upset about Criston Cole and Alicent's actions, it's important to consider their perspectives and what led them to this point.
Criston Cole wanted to go away with Rhaenyra Targaryen and live a life away from the royal family. He sought to avoid involvement in the war, but Rhaenyra chose to pursue the throne instead of being with him.
He is human, and in a world where morals seem to hold little weight for others, he is allowed to give in to his desires as well.
Alicent, too, was married off early to Viserys Targaryen (Paddy Considine), who was much older than her. She had no say in the matter; it was purely a political decision.
So, while Cole and Alicent may appear hypocritical based on their earlier statements, it's essential to remember that the narrative of the show spans over two decades, people change over time and humans are vulnerable to desires.
How to stream 'House of the Dragon' Season 2?
'House of the Dragon' is streaming on HBO Max on Sunday, June 16, 2024. To watch the series, you will need an HBO Max subscription.
The streaming platform typically offers three packages that you can choose from depending on your budget.
The low-cost plan that supports advertising costs $9.99 per month or $99.99 annually. The second package, which does not support advertising, costs $15.99 per month or $149.99 annually.
Meanwhile, the third package, titled Ultimate Ad-Free, costs $19.99 per month or $199.99 annually.
'House of the Dragon' Trailer
'House of the Dragon' is streaming on HBO Max on Sunday, June 16, 2024.
