If you're a fan of the hit TV show Game of Thrones or the book series A Song of Ice and Fire, you might have wondered which of the two continents, Essos or Westeros, is richer. The answer is not straightforward, as both continents have their own strengths and weaknesses when it comes to wealth and resources. In this article, we'll explore the economic systems of Essos and Westeros and try to answer the question.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
If you're a fan of the hit TV show Game of Thrones or the book series A Song of Ice and Fire, you might have wondered which of the two continents, Essos or Westeros, is richer. The answer is not straightforward, as both continents have their own strengths and weaknesses when it comes to wealth and resources. In this article, we'll explore the economic systems of Essos and Westeros and try to answer the question.
Economic Systems of Essos and Westeros
Westeros is a feudal society, with a small nobility class owning most of the land and resources. The commoners work the land and pay taxes to their lords, who in turn owe allegiance to the king. The economy is based on agriculture, with crops such as wheat, barley, and corn being the main source of food.
Essos, on the other hand, is more diverse in its economic systems. The Free Cities, for example, are city-states that operate under a system of trade and commerce, with merchants and traders controlling the economy. Slavery is also common in some cities, such as Slaver's Bay, where slaves work in mines and quarries to extract valuable resources such as gold and silver.
Which Continent is Richer?
The answer to this question depends on how you measure wealth. In terms of raw resources, Essos might be considered richer due to its vast reserves of valuable minerals and metals. However, Westeros has a more stable economy due to its reliance on agriculture, which provides a steady source of income for its lords and commoners.
Furthermore, Westeros has a more advanced military system, with knights and soldiers trained in combat and warfare. This gives Westeros an advantage in terms of defending itself against invaders and maintaining law and order.
Question and Answer
Q: Does Westeros have any valuable resources?
A: Yes, Westeros has resources such as iron, timber, and fish that are valuable for trade and commerce. However, these resources are not as abundant as those found in Essos.
Q: How does slavery affect the economy of Essos?
A: Slavery is a controversial issue, and its effects on the economy of Essos are debatable. While some argue that slavery provides a source of cheap labor and increases productivity, others point out that it is a violation of human rights and creates a culture of oppression and inequality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the question of whether Essos is richer than Westeros is not easy to answer. Both continents have their strengths and weaknesses when it comes to wealth and resources. Ultimately, it depends on how you measure wealth and what factors you consider important.
Regardless of which continent is richer, both Essos and Westeros are fascinating places with unique cultures and histories. So, whether you're a fan of Game of Thrones or just interested in the economics of fictional worlds, there is much to explore and discover.
