While the noble houses of Westeros have always been central to the drama in “House of the Dragon,” the recent episodes have highlighted the often-overlooked smallfolk, who are now gaining prominence in the ongoing power struggles. In the latest episode, titled “The Red Sowing,” we witness a significant shift in the narrative as characters from humble beginnings take center stage.
In episode seven, Rhaenyra Targaryen’s desperate quest to find riders for her dragons culminates in a surprising twist. Ulf the White, a character previously introduced as a tavern dweller with a questionable claim to Targaryen heritage, finds himself bonded with the dragon Silverwing. This moment marks a turning point not only for Ulf but also for the series as a whole, as it showcases the potential for lowborn characters to rise in status and influence.
Tom Bennett, the actor portraying Ulf, shared his thoughts on this transformative moment for his character. “It’s huge. Ulf is the bottom of the barrel; he’s Flea Bottom through and through,” Bennett explained. “He’s poor folk and the oppressed. He’s the working-class man under the thumb of the ruling classes and lived with that his entire life. Suddenly, he’s sitting on a nuclear warhead. The power shift is huge. Let’s see what he does with that.”
Bennett’s portrayal of Ulf is particularly compelling because it reflects the character’s internal struggle with his identity. Throughout the season, Ulf grapples with the uncertainty of his Targaryen lineage, which adds depth to his character. In earlier scenes, he boasts about his supposed heritage, but as he stands before Silverwing, the reality of his situation becomes daunting. “You think you’re going to die and there’s just a massive release of relief,” Bennett noted, describing Ulf’s reaction when he realizes the dragon will not incinerate him.
The humor that Ulf brings to the series is a refreshing contrast to the often grim atmosphere of “House of the Dragon.” Bennett pointed out that Ulf is one of the few characters who smiles and laughs, making him stand out in a world filled with tension and conflict. “Every time I’m on set, I tried to use that. Ulf sticks out like a sore thumb for many reasons. One of which is I’m one of the only characters that’s just having fun,” he said.
As Ulf transitions from a life of oppression to one of newfound power, the implications of this change are profound. The series has taken a unique approach by elevating smallfolk characters, allowing them to challenge the ruling elite. This shift in focus from the traditional power dynamics of Westeros to the experiences of the common people adds a layer of complexity to the narrative.
Bennett’s insights extend beyond the fictional world of Westeros. He draws parallels between Ulf’s journey and real-world social dynamics, emphasizing the importance of representation for marginalized voices. “It’s really nice that this season, we get to see the people in Flea Bottom. Because Flea Bottom has always been there and a big part of Thrones and Dragon lore,” he remarked. “Now we finally get to meet a few genuine Flea Bottomers. I think that can only be good for the season moving forward.”
The rise of characters like Ulf, Hugh the Hammer, and Addam of Hull as dragonriders signifies a departure from the traditional rags-to-riches narrative. While their ascension may seem triumphant, Bennett cautions that it does not guarantee a happy ending. “As satisfying as becoming dragonriders is for these characters, it does not equate to a simple, triumphant and happy ending,” he explained. “Ulf is now ‘sitting on a nuclear warhead,’ but it is not necessarily a power that he or the other new dragonriders will use wisely.”
The exploration of class dynamics in “House of the Dragon” adds depth to the story, allowing viewers to engage with the struggles of the smallfolk in a way that has not been seen before in the franchise. As the series progresses, it will be interesting to see how Ulf and his fellow dragonriders navigate their newfound power and the responsibilities that come with it.
In conclusion, Tom Bennett’s portrayal of Ulf the White in “House of the Dragon” serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for change within a rigid social hierarchy. As the series continues to unfold, the stories of the smallfolk will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of Westeros. The journey of characters like Ulf not only enriches the narrative but also resonates with contemporary themes of class struggle and empowerment.
Source: Hollywood Reporter
