Original artwork, not a still
The Dothraki are not known for their punctuality.
— Game of Thrones ‧ 2011
Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
It is a throwaway joke that also characterises a people: the Dothraki live on horseback and by omens, and no clock binds them. Illyrio's amused patter lets the audience laugh at them before they become terrifying. Fans quote it for the friend who is always late, and it is a small piece of worldbuilding hidden in a punchline.
Context reviewed
In context
Spoilers for Game of ThronesShow the scene
At the Pentos wedding in "Winter Is Coming" (2011), Khal Drogo rides off with his khalasar, leaving Viserys anxious about whether the Dothraki warlord approved of his sister. Magister Illyrio Mopatis, who arranged the marriage, calms him with a dry remark about the Dothraki and timekeeping. Illyrio is among the first characters to describe the Dothraki to the audience, and his commentary frames them before they appear in force.
Sources (2)
- Wikipedia: Winter Is ComingIn PentosReference checked
- IMDb: Winter Is Coming, Roger Allam as Illyriocharacters page (surfaced by search only)Reference checked
Context reviewed
