Le couple le plus perturbant dans Once Upon A Time
Table of Contents
1. Introduction \
1.1 Overview of the Show \
1.2 Importance of Redemption Arc
2. The Promise of Rumplestiltskin's Redemption \
2.1 Early Progress in Seasons 1 and 2 \
2.2 Relationship with Belle \
2.3 The Flawed Concept of "Beauty and the Beast"
3. The Downfall of Rumplestiltskin's Redemption \
3.1 The Change in Belle and Rumple's Relationship \
3.2 The Toxicity of Their Romance \
3.3 Rumple's Low Self-esteem and Trust Issues
4. Rumplestiltskin's Pattern of Betrayal \
4.1 The Cycle of Betrayal \
4.2 Rumple's Desire for Power \
4.3 Manipulation and Lies
5. Belle's Role and Codependency \
5.1 Lack of Independence \
5.2 Belle's Isolation \
5.3 Unhealthy Relationship Dynamics
6. The Missed Opportunities for Improvement \
6.1 Failure to Address Rumple's Trauma \
6.2 Romanticizing Toxic Behavior \
6.3 The Need for Better Character Development
7. Conclusion \
7.1 Seasons 1-3: A Promising Start \
7.2 Disappointment and Frustration \
7.3 The Show's Misinterpretation of a Troubled Relationship
📚 2. The Promise of Rumplestiltskin's Redemption
Once Upon a Time was a show that revolved around the concept of happy endings and hope. One of the reasons why the show captivated its audience was its commitment to redeeming many of its primary villains, including Rumplestiltskin. However, the execution of Rumplestiltskin's redemption arc ended up being a major disappointment. This article aims to explore why Rumplestiltskin's messy redemption arc had a detrimental effect on the portrayal of his character and his relationship with Belle, which ultimately turned out to be one of the most toxic TV couples romanticized on screen in a very long time.
In the first 2 seasons and earlier, Rumplestiltskin's redemption seemed to be on a promising trajectory. His character showed growth and development, and his relationship with Belle started off sweet and endearing. Belle, naive and hopeful, believed she could change the seemingly villainous Rumplestiltskin. However, the show's approach to the concept of "Beauty and the Beast" reveals some problematic underlying messages. The idea that someone should pick a partner in the hopes of changing them fundamentally undermines the importance of accepting someone for who they truly are.
📚 3. The Downfall of Rumplestiltskin's Redemption
As the show progressed, Belle fell in love with a romanticized version of Rumplestiltskin, rather than accepting him for his flaws and complexities. This dynamic sets a strange and unhealthy message for young girls watching the show. It implies that they should choose someone who needs improvement and change, rather than opting for a partner who is already well-rounded and happy in themselves.
Moreover, the once-innocent and endearing relationship between Belle and Rumplestiltskin starts to lose its charm. Belle becomes a reflection of Rumplestiltskin's self-esteem issues and attempts to mold him into someone he is not. The lack of acceptance and constant desire to change him creates a toxic dynamic that leads to a series of conflicts and betrayals. Rumplestiltskin's redemption arc takes a turn for the worse, as he struggles to let go of his obsession with power and resorts to lies and manipulation.
📚 4. Rumplestiltskin's Pattern of Betrayal
Rumplestiltskin's journey towards redemption is plagued by a continuous pattern of betrayal and self-sabotage. Despite initially showing progress, his deep-rooted desire for power ultimately takes precedence over his relationships and promises. He becomes willing to go to great lengths, including teaming up with villains, to regain his former status and authority. Each time Belle confronts him about his actions, he resorts to gaslighting her or making hollow promises of change.
His low self-esteem and lack of trust further hinder his redemption. The belief that no one could genuinely love him leads to a constant fear of abandonment and an inability to be truly honest and open with Belle. This lack of authenticity in their relationship creates a constant state of tension, making it impossible for them to build a healthy and trusting partnership.
📚 5. Belle's Role and Codependency
Belle's character arc in relation to Rumplestiltskin showcases a disturbing codependency. Throughout the series, her entire existence revolves around him. She lacks a personal life outside of their relationship and rarely forms meaningful connections with other characters. This codependency is reinforced by the show's writing, which keeps Belle isolated and focused solely on Rumplestiltskin.
The result is a portrayal of a highly unhealthy and one-sided relationship. Belle's lack of independence and her willingness to overlook or excuse Rumplestiltskin's actions perpetuates the cycle of toxicity. The show misses the opportunity to develop Belle as a strong and empowered character, instead positioning her as a victim trapped in an abusive relationship.
📚 6. The Missed Opportunities for Improvement
Once Upon a Time had the potential to address and rectify the toxic elements within Belle and Rumplestiltskin's relationship. However, the show failed in its handling of their storylines. It missed opportunities to explore Rumplestiltskin's trauma and provide him with the necessary support and healing. Instead, the show continued to romanticize his behavior and undermine the gravity of his actions.
By reframing Rumplestiltskin as a hero in the final seasons, the show further diluted the impact of his redemption arc. It disregarded the damage he had caused and failed to acknowledge that Belle deserved better. The inability to address these issues ultimately tarnished the integrity of the show's narrative and its portrayal of a troubled relationship.
📚 7. Conclusion
While the early seasons of Once Upon a Time showed promise in Rumplestiltskin's redemption arc and his relationship with Belle, the later seasons turned out to be a disaster. The toxic and codependent nature of their romance overshadowed any growth and development that had initially occurred. The show's portrayal of their relationship failed to address the underlying issues and instead presented a distorted and romanticized version of a deeply flawed dynamic.
In conclusion, Once Upon a Time missed the mark in handling Rumplestiltskin's redemption arc and his relationship with Belle. By framing their toxic relationship as cute and star-crossed, the show undermined the need for healthier portrayals of love and the importance of self-acceptance. Belle deserved better, and the show missed an opportunity to deliver a stronger and more empowering narrative.
🔗 Resources:
- [Once Upon a Time Playlist](insert URL here)