There are sub-plots of seduction, betrayal, exile, outcast, people challenging traditional roles and responsibilities. As a fantasy set in medieval civilization, it contains dungeons, dragons, but not many damsels in distress. Martin’s world is inhabited by strong and powerful women who rule over armies, kingdoms and men. And yet, it’s still very much a male-dominated world. So reports The Wall Street Journal.  

The characters are often in conflict with themselves and their environments. Being written and produced from a distinct 21st-century vantage point, “Thrones” contains parallels that can be easily drawn not only with our political and military milieu – but also to many aspects of the “corporate-industrial” complex we call the business world.

Similar thoughts prompted three prominent management and business experts to draw comparisons between the varying leadership styles and foibles seen on “Thrones” with contemporary managerial prototypes.

Can the formidable Tyrion Lannister character, or the bastard son of a king, succeed despite their obstacles in life? Think Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO, who proudly announced he is gay last year – but only after reaching the pinnacle of corporate success. What about the imposing women on screen? Can they rule despite gender prejudices and maintain their femininity (one female character frequently masquerades as a boy)? Just ask any female CEO – or perhaps Hillary Clinton most demonstrably in 2015.

Whether or not one is a fan of the show, it’s worth taking in an episode or two to note the leadership and management traits portrayed: adaptability, likability, flexibility, compassion – or their conspicuous absence.

Read the full article from The Wall Street Journal.