Great Character Introductions on The Walking Dead: Mary from Terminus
By Susie Graham
We only meet a character once. Sometimes that introduction is just woven into the story. Other times it’s a dramatic event. Let’s look at some of the great introductions on The Walking Dead.
Mary from Terminus. Mary’s introduction was a combination of dramatic and serene. There was dramatic irony in many ways used by the directors and writers, including the music choice.
If you were a comic reader or had heard any rumblings from comic readers, you might have had an idea that the people of Terminus might be people eaters. If that was a complete surprise to you, it didn’t hurt anything. It was definitely not known to our weary group.
The group was not the only ones who were weary and happy to finally arrive at Terminus. The audience had been on the road to Terminus with the different groups ever since the prison fell and The Governor whispered “Liar” and forced them all to flee and not look back.
Mary’s introduction was short and simple. And, as with so many new characters on The Walking Dead, was very much about us sizing her up and deciding what we thought of her and if we were going to trust her no matter what face she showed.
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And she showed a deliberately cordial and pleasant one. She was dressed like a lovely, peace-loving woman with a long side braid like Katniss Everdeen. A nice open poncho-like wool cardigan buttoned just at the breast bone to fall over her shoulders casually.
Terminus itself was part of the serene feel to extend the message in the signs: Those who arrive, survive. Sanctuary for all Community for all. Sunflowers at the entrance. Umbrella tables, shabby chic, mismatched chairs and potted plants to add to the welcoming outdoor café atmosphere.
The music was especially ironic and intentional. It lulled us into not being afraid of Terminus. “Be not so nervous. Be not so frail.”
Next: Great introductions to characters: Jesus
Mary didn’t seem at all nonplussed at their arrival. She didn’t turn around right away; she continued cooking. She smiled. She commented on their road-weary appearance. She welcomed them and told them she’d help them get settled and make them a plate.