These 9 'GoT' Episodes Will Explain All Those Season 7 References

Listen: Game of Thrones is complicated. There are a lot of characters to keep track of, about 10 different storylines going on at once, and so many different locations that basically, if it's not King's Landing, Winterfell, or the Wall, I have trouble knowing where we are in Westeros. Unless you're someone who's read all the books, or have infinite time on your hands to read the recap of every single season thus far, the first two episodes of Season 7 might have been confusing to you. Don't worry, you are far from alone. My dad has watched every season and still doesn't know that Khaleesi and Daenarys are the same person. So, for him and for you, I've compiled a list of Game of Thrones episodes to rewatch to understand Season 7 to its fullest.

Like many other complex fantasy series, GoT loves to drag things back from the past and make them newly relevant. Like, why is the Hound suddenly here again? Who are the Brotherhood Without Banners and why are they back? Did fans always know that Dragonstone was the Targaryan homeland? Cause I sure didn't. Although these twists and turns make for great storytelling, they can leave some viewers like myself a little baffled and feeling dumb for having watched every episode and still being confused about what's happening (or maybe that's just me). But don't worry! I've recently rewatched the entire series, and I'm here to provide you a cheat sheet. Here's nine episodes you should rewatch to better understand what the heck is going on this season.

"The Winds of Winter"— Season 6, Episode 10

If you want to understand what's going on in Season 7, the first place to start is the Season 6 finale. So much happened that set the main players in a new direction. Cersei blew up the Sept of Baelor, destroying her enemies the Tyrells and the High Sparrow, but ultimately resulting in King Tommen's suicide. Jon Snow is declared King of the North, but the groundwork is laid for later tension with Sansa. Khaleesi finally heads to Westeros. It's revealed the Jon Snow is really a Targaryan. Basically, if you've been totally lost these first two episodes of Season 7, watching "The Winds of Winter" will clear up a lot of the confusion.

"Mother's Mercy"— Season 5, Episode 10

Wait, so why isn't Jon Snow part of the Night's Watch anymore? Why does Cersei hate Ellaria Sand so much? How did Sam end up at the Citadel? This episode will answer all those questions.

"Hardhome"— Season 5, Episode 8

If you rewatch "Hardhome," you'll understand Jon Snow's White Walkers obsession. They are pretty terrifying, and this episode proved that they are practically invincible.

"The Children"— Season 4, Episode 10

Tyrion has been hanging out with Khaleesi so long, it's easy to forget how he ended up there in the first place. The Season 4 finale will remind you why it is that everyone's favorite Lannister is no longer a welcome presence in King's Landing.

"Kill The Boy"— Season 5, Episode 5

That scene of Sam removing Jorah's Greyscale was so disgusting I almost lost my dinner. But how did Jorah contract Greyscale in the first place? And when did Jon Snow decide to move the Wildlings south of the wall? "Kill the Boy" will clear up all of that confusion.

"The Climb"— Season 3, Episode 6

This is about as far from the inspirational Miley Cyrus ballad as you can get. If you found yourself screaming in frustration when Theon jumped off the boat, it might be time to remind yourself that Theon spent quite a few seasons being Reek and isn't totally mentally prepared for battle these days.

"Kissed By Fire"— Season 3, Episode 5

Who the heck are the Brotherhood Without Banners? What is their connection to the Hound? This episode will answer all of those questions, plus grant you with a second viewing of everyone's favorite cave scene. You know the one.

"The Door"— Season 6, Episode 5

I promise I'm not just being mean by suggesting you watch that heartbreaking "hold the door" scene again. This episode provides a ton of important info, from Bran learning the origin of the White Walkers to relearning how Yara and Theon ended up on Khaleesi's team.

"Home"— Season 6, Episode 2

This episode is most memorable for the resurrection of Jon Snow, but I think it's worth a rewatch as a reminder of the power of Melisandre. Since she's just reemerged at Khaleesi's court to tell Dany that she and Jon Snow have the largest roles to play in the wars to come, it's important to remember what the Red Witch is capable of, and why she's so convinced that Jon Snow could be the Prince Who Was Promised.

So, get watching, and you'll be all caught up in no time.