The episode's title refers to those with red hair, like Ygritte, but it also serves as a metaphor for the trials and rebirths experienced by several characters.

" Kissed by Fire ," the fifth episode of Game of Thrones Season 3 , is widely considered one of the series' most critical turning points. Written by Bryan Cogman and directed by Alex Graves, this episode moves away from the explosive action of the previous week to focus on deep character revelations, shifting alliances, and the "fire" that drives each player in the game.