The world of Game of Thrones has captivated audiences for years, and its impact extends far beyond the screen. For fans, the experience doesn't end with the final episode; it continues through various forms of creative expression, including fanfiction. Archive of Our Own (AO3), a fan-created and fan-run online archive, has become a hub for fans to share their own stories, reinterpretations, and reimaginings of the Game of Thrones universe. Here, we'll explore five ways AO3 redefines the world of Westeros and Essos.
1. Diverse Representation and Inclusive Storytelling
AO3 offers a platform for fans to create stories that reflect their own experiences, identities, and perspectives. This has led to a proliferation of works that showcase diverse characters, relationships, and storylines that were not fully explored in the original series. Fans have written stories featuring LGBTQ+ characters, people of color, and individuals with disabilities, providing representation that was often lacking in the original show.
Breaking the Mold: Non-Traditional Relationships and Character Interactions
AO3 has given rise to a wide range of non-traditional relationships and character interactions that challenge the norms established in the original series. Fans have explored same-sex relationships, polyamory, and non-binary characters, offering fresh perspectives on the world of Westeros and Essos. These stories not only provide representation but also encourage readers to think critically about the social norms and power structures presented in the original series.
Expanding the World: Alternate Universes and "What If" Scenarios
AO3 has also enabled fans to explore alternate universes and "what if" scenarios, allowing them to reimagine the world of Game of Thrones in innovative ways. Fans have created stories that diverge from the original plot, exploring the consequences of different choices or events. This has led to a rich tapestry of creative works that expand the Game of Thrones universe, offering new insights and perspectives on the characters and their world.
2. Challenging Canon and Subverting Expectations
AO3 has become a space for fans to challenge the original series' canon and subvert expectations. Fans have written stories that contradict or complicate the original narrative, offering alternative explanations for characters' motivations and actions. This has led to a reevaluation of the original series, encouraging readers to think critically about the themes, characters, and plot developments.
Reexamining Power Dynamics: Fanfiction as Social Commentary
AO3 has enabled fans to use fanfiction as a form of social commentary, reexamining the power dynamics and social structures presented in the original series. Fans have written stories that critique the patriarchal and misogynistic elements of the original narrative, offering alternative perspectives on the roles of women and marginalized groups in the world of Westeros and Essos.
Playing with Genre: Fanfiction as a Tool for Experimentation
AO3 has also given fans the opportunity to experiment with different genres and styles, pushing the boundaries of what is possible within the Game of Thrones universe. Fans have written stories that blend elements of science fiction, fantasy, romance, and horror, creating unique and innovative works that challenge the conventions of the original series.
3. Fostering Community and Collaboration
AO3 has created a sense of community among fans, who come together to share their works, provide feedback, and collaborate on projects. The platform has enabled fans to connect with one another, forming lasting bonds and friendships. This sense of community has also led to the creation of shared universes and collaborative projects, where multiple fans work together to build a rich and immersive world.
Cross-Pollination: Fanfiction as a Catalyst for Creative Exchange
AO3 has facilitated the cross-pollination of ideas and creative influences, allowing fans to draw inspiration from one another's works. This has led to a vibrant and dynamic community, where fans share their knowledge, skills, and experiences to create innovative and engaging stories.
Encouraging Feedback and Critique: Building a Supportive Community
AO3 has created a culture of feedback and critique, where fans can share their thoughts and opinions on one another's works. This has led to a supportive community, where fans can learn from one another, refine their craft, and grow as writers.
4. Providing a Platform for Marginalized Voices
AO3 has provided a platform for marginalized voices to be heard, giving fans from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to share their stories and perspectives. The platform has enabled fans to create works that reflect their own experiences, providing representation and validation for communities that are often overlooked or underrepresented in mainstream media.
Amplifying Marginalized Perspectives: Fanfiction as a Tool for Social Change
AO3 has enabled fans to use fanfiction as a tool for social change, amplifying marginalized perspectives and challenging dominant narratives. Fans have written stories that highlight the experiences of marginalized communities, providing a platform for voices that are often silenced or marginalized.
Creating a Safe Space: AO3's Policies and Procedures
AO3 has implemented policies and procedures to create a safe and inclusive space for fans to share their works. The platform has a strict policy against harassment, hate speech, and other forms of abuse, ensuring that fans can share their stories without fear of retribution or backlash.
5. Redefining the Concept of "Canon" and "Fandom"
AO3 has challenged the traditional notion of "canon" and "fandom," blurring the lines between creators and consumers. The platform has enabled fans to become active participants in the creation of the Game of Thrones universe, rather than simply passive recipients of the original narrative.
Decentering the Original Narrative: Fanfiction as a Form of Resistance
AO3 has enabled fans to decenter the original narrative, challenging the dominant narrative and creating alternative stories that subvert expectations. This has led to a reevaluation of the original series, encouraging readers to think critically about the themes, characters, and plot developments.
Reclaiming the Narrative: Fanfiction as a Form of Empowerment
AO3 has given fans the power to reclaim the narrative, creating stories that reflect their own experiences, perspectives, and desires. This has led to a sense of empowerment, as fans are able to take control of the narrative and create works that are meaningful and relevant to their own lives.
Now that you've explored the ways AO3 redefines the world of Game of Thrones, we invite you to join the conversation! Share your own thoughts on the intersection of fanfiction and social commentary, and let us know how you think AO3 has impacted the fandom.