from Google AI:
The "Red Wedding" refers to a shocking massacre in Game of Thrones where Robb Stark, his mother Catelyn, and his army were betrayed and slaughtered at a wedding feast by their supposed allies, the Freys and Boltons, orchestrated by Tywin Lannister, violating sacred guest right for revenge and to end the Stark rebellion. The term signifies any event where a celebration turns into bloody betrayal, referencing the "red" of blood spilled amidst supposed feasting and unity, and also has historical roots in real massacres like Scotland's "Black Dinner".
Key Aspects of the Red Wedding:
- The Betrayal: Lord Walder Frey, angered by Robb Stark breaking a marriage pact, orchestrated the attack with Roose Bolton and Tywin Lannister's backing.
- The Violation: It brutally broke "guest right," a sacred custom of hospitality, turning a wedding meant for unity into a scene of horrific slaughter.
- The Victims: Robb Stark, his mother Catelyn, his pregnant wife Talisa, and most of his Northern forces were killed.
- The Symbolism: The name "Red Wedding" symbolizes the shocking contrast between a wedding's joy and the ensuing bloodshed, with "red" representing blood.
Inspiration & Broader Meaning:
- Historical Basis: Author George R.R. Martin drew inspiration from real historical events, particularly the Black Dinner (1440) and the Massacre of Glencoe (1692) in Scotland.
- Figurative Use: The term is now used more broadly to describe any situation involving unexpected, brutal betrayal, carnage, or a massacre disguised as something festive or peaceful.