It is an interesting episode, although some events are a little implausible. The influence of 21st century values on the Game of Thrones universe is starting to be noticed. One can see the decadence of the Capital of the Seven Kingdoms, with all the lords conspiring against each other, while the fool king is indeed a fool, and is easily manipulated by the royal council. Then Ned Stark does a very bad decision at going against his king and friend, as he had honor. Honor is used as a virtue for being an obstinate compassionate fool. That's not the real meaning of honor, but it looks like the episode shows honor like that.
On the other hand, a matriarchal kingdom is shown when Lady Stark, after apprehending the Lannister dwarf, heads towards a kingdom in the middle of the mountain, where her sister rules there. But what kind of place it is! Full matriarchy, with a spoiled little prince whining about non sense, and being breastfed by her mother when he is already about 10 years old! Good thing: A good example of how a kingdom can degenerate at such level.
In the end, Ned receives what he was supposed to receive. His men are killed by an intriguing character I won't mention now if I don't want my review to contain spoilers.
On the other hand, a matriarchal kingdom is shown when Lady Stark, after apprehending the Lannister dwarf, heads towards a kingdom in the middle of the mountain, where her sister rules there. But what kind of place it is! Full matriarchy, with a spoiled little prince whining about non sense, and being breastfed by her mother when he is already about 10 years old! Good thing: A good example of how a kingdom can degenerate at such level.
In the end, Ned receives what he was supposed to receive. His men are killed by an intriguing character I won't mention now if I don't want my review to contain spoilers.