From Geralt to Ciri: All your ‘The Witcher’ questions answered
Netflix’s adaptation of The Witcher, based on the novels by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski, features an array of fantastical beings in a setting rich with mythological lore. Series creator Lauren Schmidt Hissrich initially pitched the idea for the adaptation as told through the eyes of Ciri (Freya Allan), however, upon further discussion decided for Geralt of Rivia (played by the heroic Henry Cavill) as the show’s focal character.
Although Ciri’s perspective as canon would be a riveting addition to the mythos, Hissrich has allegedly found a way to give Geralt, the princess Ciri, and sorceress Yennefer (Anya Chalotra) each the attention they deserve, using The Last Wish and Sword of Destiny, the first two books, along with some material unique to the Netflix series.
While Geralt is ostensibly the lead character, Ciri & Yennefer both play pivotal roles. Straying slightly from the source material, we meet the women individually and get to know them before their paths converge in the show, rather than solely through Geralt’s perspective.
The conflation of source material and contemporary elements in The Witcher pave a solid path for Netflix’s first epic fantasy, which kicked off on December 20th. Here are a few questions & speculative theories the fandom had about the series before it aired.
What is the plot of The Witcher?
Similar to the books (and not as much the video games) that proceed it, The Witcher is centered around the solitary Geralt of Rivia, who specializes in killing mythical demons to make a living. Although somewhat cynical, he does learn to help other people in need as he travels through a land known as The Continent.
As the show continues, Geralt eventually crosses paths with both Yennefer & Ciri and the three attempt to find their place in a world where people prove more wicked than beasts.
Is The Witcher comparable to Game of Thrones?
While it’s true that The Witcher may help ease the pain of GOT leaving the airwaves, it’s ultimately its own adventure rife with unique challenges and dazzling debauchery. Also, considering nearly everything in the fantasy genre borrows from The Lord of the Rings, this comparison comes as no surprise.
How often do we get to see Geralt brooding in a bathtub?
Even just this one hot as heck bath scene is enough to make us blush & swoon.
Why is Yennefer seen monologuing over a dead baby?
Seen as a fierce sorceress with a seriously messed up childhood, Yennefer is a conduit of chaos with a killer sexuality. Upon going through a complete physical transformation via magic, her storyline uncovers the truth of her tragic upbringing. But during The Witcher’s Comic-Con panel, Yennefer is seen eulogizing a dead baby – a scene that is supposedly an important one in her story arc.
Hopefully, answers will be revealed in the episodes to come, or at least provide us with a better idea of what is actually happening.
Will Dandelion be featured in the series?
Yes, the bard you see above was The Witcher‘s version of Jaskier, Geralt’s singing shadow who documents the events of the story. In Netflix’s The Witcher, the series uses his name from the books: Jaskier. The Polish word actually refers to the buttercup flower, which maybe seems a bit too saccharine for the moody fantasy setting.
—
The Witcher season 2 is set to be released in August 2021. What burning questions do you have about season 2?
