Writing Forum

I've read the first four ASoIaF books. Martin, in my opinion, has created wonderfully deep and complex religions that ring true with some religions in our world, whilst also adding his own twists on them. The key, I think, to creating a religion in fiction is that the religion must influence the characters in some. For example Martin's religions have created some phrases or curses that add flavour to the world.

The Faith of the Seven is a fantastic example of how to do religion in fiction. Each face of the Seven has some spiritual meaning, and the characters both find faith and blame in them. This is similar to real world religions where God(s) are both sources of hope and fear. The Drowned God is more to do with fear and control and the customs surrounding this religion are generally more harsh and severe.

What is most interesting is how Martin handles changes in belief. R'hllor is hardly present in the first book. But then the red comet is seen and the Red Woman starts exerting her influence and causes many of those who had faith in the Seven to change to R'hllor. Whether they actually believe in the Lord of Light is not known and it is implied that many are doing so out of fear.

Having several major religions works well for Martin. I think is because there are no clear heroes or villains. The Lannisters may be seen as the bad guys, but then what of Tyrion? The Starks are often seen as the good guys, but they are by no means the loveliest of people. By doing this, Martin doesn't vilify any particular religion. I think this is important as readers will no doubt draw connections between Martin's religions and real-world religions. The one thing you don't want is your fictional religion to be deemed offensive to a significant percentage of the real world population.

Thanks,
Matt

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