House of the Dragon: Why Does Medieval and Fantasy TV Make Us So Horny?

From House of the Dragon to The Witcher, there is something undeniably seductive about the medieval genre. The Game of Thrones world is almost synonymous with sex, and House of The Dragon is no different.

This new season is even steamier — and believe it or not, there were even more graphic sex scenes cut out. Olivia Cooke, who plays Alicent, recently revealed to Elle Magazine that a "carnal" and "animalistic" sex scene was cut from the show. She said: "It was messy as fuck. It wasn't beautiful, and that was really fun to do." But what is it about medieval TV that makes us feel so horny?

PS UK got the inside scoop from Erotic writer Jaimee Bell from Bloom Stories, who breaks down what it is about medieval fantasy TV that keeps us coming back for more.

Jaimee Bell, freelance writer who specialises in sexual education and wellness, psychology and mental health.

Medieval TV shows often cross over into the fantasy and mythology genre, which tends not to shy away from taboos and the darker sides of human nature — including our sexuality. Bell explains: "The fantastical settings of shows like House of the Dragon allow for a more liberated exploration of sex, free from the constraints of modern sensibilities. Medieval shows often also tap into cultural myths and legends that have been romanticised over centuries, which can resonate with deep-seated fantasies and desires." Shows like HOTD are escapism at its very best and it's part of what makes medieval and fantasy TV all the more fun to watch. Who doesn't want to spend some time in a make-believe world where the traditional rules of sex and relationships we're conditioned to adhere to do not apply?

The medieval era was rife with affairs and scandals among the nobility and this can be intriguing to watch. Bell explains: "Shows like House of the Dragon portray powerful figures navigating their sexual desires while also trying to balance their political ambitions. We love to watch this play out, with forbidden love and incestuous relationships adding to the drama and intrigue." The erotic writer tells PS UK that watching powerful characters on screen - even if what they're plotting is dark, dangerous or transgressive — can be a turn on, appealing to our deepest human desires.

"The power dynamics in medieval shows can also be associated with dominance and submission, which can be arousing for people who enjoy the sub/dom dynamic in their sexual relationships. Medieval TV shows frequently feature clear hierarchies and powerful figures exerting control, playing into the kinds of sub/dom fantasies often associated with kink." Bell advises for anyone who wants to experiment with power play in the real world, to take care to seek consent and ensure all parties involved feel safe and comfortable. For more information, read Bloom Stories' Kink for Beginners guide for couples looking to explore kink for the first time.

The medieval genre is quite violent, but there is an intrigue with how sex and power intertwine. Bell tells PS UK: "Medieval TV shows help us understand the social and political dynamics of the era. The brutality and ruthlessness of this period adds another layer to the characters' erotic lives as they use sex to forge alliances or betray enemies. The complex interplay of sex and power keeps us tuning in every week."

In 2024, despite the progress, there is still a lot of societal expectations and judgment women face from being sexually liberated. The notion that men are hornier and more sexually inclined seems to be accepted universally by society. There is seemingly a collective belief that men's innate sexual desire comes from evolution — whereas a woman should be a lot more submissive and discreet. However, a lot of modern medieval and fantasy TV shows have strong, complex female main characters who are smart, brave, dark, resilient and ruthless.

Bell explains: "It can be empowering to see women embracing their sexuality so freely in these shows, seeking pleasure without shame or embarrassment. We've seen many dark and disturbing sex scenes in shows like Game of Thrones, but there are also many scenes where women are using their sexuality to get what they want - be that power or pleasure — which can be deeply compelling to explore via a fantasy world."

Aaliyah Harry (she/her) is the associate editor at PS UK. She writes extensively across lifestyle, culture and beauty. Aaliyah also has a deep passion for telling stories and giving voice to the voiceless. Previously, she has contributed to Refinery29, Grazia UK and The Voice Newspaper.