In regards to GoT - I'm not sure that's a good example, since the story is still in progress and the redemptive arc isn't in complete swing as of yet.
Actually, I don't see any fully redemptive arcs in GoT at the moment, but I'm admittedly only half way through Feast of Crows.

At any rate, I agree, navel gazing and moping does not equal atonement. It's my main problem with Angel actually.

And to be honest in GoT the only story I've seen to date is the second one - fates retribution until there's a reaction, which is more about suffering than brooding. Actually all the characters stories seem to fit this. Martin isn't really into traditional redemption arcs, he likes fates retribution until there's a reaction far better.