"When You’re Lost in the Darkness, Look for the Light": An Exploration of the Villain in The Last of Us Part II
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2024-06-15
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en
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This thesis examines the archetype of the villain in the video game The Last of Us Part II. This is done by studying in what ways protagonists Ellie and Abby can be considered villains in the post-apocalyptic world of the game. This research also considers what the portrayal of the protagonists as villains implies about humanity in a post-apocalyptic world. This study of the villain uses theories on narrative, the post-apocalypse and trauma. Additionally, to analyse both protagonists, several narrative techniques used in The Last of Us Part II are examined in the way they influence how Ellie and Abby are portrayed. This thesis concludes that both protagonists cannot be considered typical villains, as they are nuanced, round characters. The Last of Us Part II blurs the lines between hero and villain and shows what it means to be human in a post-apocalyptic world.
Key words: villain, hero, post-apocalypse, trauma, humanity
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