Understanding the Time in Westeros: Orbs and Seasons in Game of Thrones
Delving into the realm of Westeros, the showed world of A Song of Ice and Fire, offers a unique perspective on time and celestial phenomena. Is the seasons in Westeros based on the same principles as our understanding of time? What about the speed of light in Westeros? Let's explore these intriguing aspects and draw parallels with our own world.
The Flow of Time in Westeros
In the world of Game of Thrones, the time system is far from the structured and predictable calendar we are accustomed to. The Maesters, the scholars and advisors of Westeros, have yet to fully understand the mechanics of time and celestial events, which raises questions about their comprehension of the world around them.
Their understanding of the year in Westeros does not align with our own. Unlike Earth, where a year is defined by the orbit of the planet around the sun, Maesters and the populace of Westeros are more concerned with the seasons. The seven seasons of Westeros, each lasting many years, are governed by their unique astronomical events and not by a fixed orbit. This highlights the difference between observed natural phenomena and the structured calendar we use today.
Seasons and Orbs
Understanding the causes of the seven seasons in Westeros presents a fascinating debate among astrologers and astronomers. Unlike Earth, where the seasons are caused by the tilt of the planet on its axis, the seasons in Westeros seem to be influenced by other factors. Some theories suggest that the seasons are caused by the movement of a mysterious entity known as the 'Orb' or the 'Eye'. However, this remains a speculation as the exact mechanism behind the seasonal cycle remains unknown.
Another point of consideration is the role of the sun. Despite the presence of the sun in their sky, the Maesters have not yet figured out that Westeros orbits a sun. This suggests a fundamental lack of understanding about the solar system. Perhaps a Newton or a Galileo in Westeros could revolutionize their knowledge by introducing concepts like gravity and calculus. These tools could allow them to make predictions about the positions of bodies in the sky and further understand the timing of the seasons.
The Speed of Light in Westeros
Another intriguing aspect of Westeros is the speed of light. Without a clear understanding of physics, the Maesters can't accurately measure the speed of light. Earth's scientists are still debating whether the speed of light has been constant throughout the history of the universe. Assuming the speed of light remains constant, comparing it to Westeros would be a challenge. The absence of a structured understanding of the universe's physical laws means that measuring the speed of light in Westeros is an even greater mystery.
Conclusion
The time and seasons in Westeros present a rich tapestry of uncertainties and questions. While the Maesters and the people of Westeros make do with their current understanding, the quest for knowledge and the desire to understand the universe continue. Looking beyond the fantasy realm, it's clear that the Maesters have much to learn, much like the early scientists on Earth before the advent of the scientific revolution. This comparison highlights the importance of scientific inquiry and the pursuit of understanding our world and the universe beyond.