'Game of Thrones' newbies: What you need to know before watching season 2

Missed the first season, but want to dive in now? Here's what you need to know.

5. Joffrey Baratheon

Courtesy of HBO

Joffrey is the oldest of what are believed to be King Robert Baratheon and Queen Cersei Lannister's children (actually Cersei and her twin brother Jaime's), and after his father's death, he becomes king. He is vindictive and cruel, and now that he has supreme power, even his mother seems unable to control him at times. He is engaged to Ned Stark's oldest daughter, Sansa, who at first was ecstatic over their engagement, wanting nothing more than to marry a prince. But Sansa now realizes her fiance's true nature and fears him. 

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