The series is all about power -- who wants it and how they get it. Themes of family, faith, and loyalty run throughout, as do moral ambiguity and rampant betrayal. Some women are empowered; others are not. People of color are typically depicted as barbaric or animalistic or as slaves.
Frequent graphic, gory violence, including executions and their bloody aftermath, and large-scale battles with powerful and gruesome fight scenes. Swords, crossbows, clubs, and any number of other weapons visible. Sexual violence also is graphically depicted. Skeletons, zombie-like creatures, and dragons are among the show's scary fantasy creatures.
Extensive male and female nudity; sex is graphically portrayed. Adultery, prostitution, consensual incest between adults, and sexual bargaining are themes.
Modern swear words, such as "f--k," "c--t," "c--k," "s--t," "bitch," "bastard," and more.
Pipe smoking is visible; characters are frequently depicted drinking excessively and sometimes behaving hedonistically, irresponsibly, or violently as a result. Drugs are used to poison people.