Aria Montgomery: The Heart of Pretty Little Liars

Introduction

“Pretty Little Liars,” a teen drama series that captivated audiences for seven seasons, wouldn’t have been the same without its core group of friends. Amongst them, Aria Montgomery stood out as a character whose journey was as compelling as it was controversial. With her signature eclectic style and a penchant for making questionable decisions, Aria’s story became deeply intertwined with the mysteries and betrayals that plagued Rosewood. From her initial return to town after a year abroad to her eventual (contentious) happily ever after, Aria Montgomery’s evolution served as a cornerstone of “Pretty Little Liars.” This article explores Aria’s character development, her complex relationship with Ezra Fitz, her moral ambiguities, and her lasting impact on the show.

Aria’s Character Arc: From Rebellious Teen to (Almost) Mature Adult

When Aria Montgomery returns to Rosewood after a year in Iceland, she’s a different person. Gone is the reserved, somewhat shy girl. In her place stands a teenager with a newly found rebellious streak, expressed through her distinctive fashion choices and a world-weary attitude beyond her years. She has returned to a town fractured by the disappearance of Alison DiLaurentis, and almost immediately, her life is thrown into disarray with the arrival of the mysterious “A.”

In these early seasons, Aria is portrayed as a creative spirit with artistic inclinations. She’s drawn to photography and writing, often finding solace in expressing herself through these mediums. However, her artistic nature is juxtaposed with the increasing darkness that surrounds her and her friends. This duality becomes a defining trait of her character. It is as if she is trying to hold onto a life of beauty while constantly being pulled towards the darkness.

The challenges she faces early on are immense. Not only is she dealing with the ever-present threat of “A,” but she’s also grappling with her parents’ crumbling marriage due to her father’s infidelity, a secret she discovers shortly after returning. The biggest source of turmoil, however, is undoubtedly her forbidden relationship with her English teacher, Ezra Fitz. The relationship is a lightning rod for controversy from the start, casting a long shadow over everything else.

As the “A” game intensifies in later seasons, Aria’s involvement deepens. She’s no longer just a victim; she becomes an active player, often making difficult choices to protect herself and her friends. Her character starts to grapple with morality and self-preservation. The pressure from “A” forces the group to resort to increasingly questionable tactics, and Aria often finds herself at the forefront of these morally ambiguous decisions. It’s during this time that the audience sees a shift in Aria’s personality, she becomes more resilient and resourceful, but also more hardened by the constant threat.

The latter seasons of “Pretty Little Liars” see Aria tested more than ever before. She is one of the first people to come face to face with A.D., she even actively goes along with the game to protect Ezra. As the show edges towards its conclusion, Aria faces her biggest moral test. She is given a choice that could alter the course of her life and the lives of those around her. Her decision at this moment defines her character and highlights the growth she has undergone throughout the series. We see a stark contrast between the girl who first stepped off the plane to Rosewood and the woman who makes the ultimate sacrifice to protect the people she loves. The pressure of a lifetime of being tormented results in a fertility scare and a brief alliance with A.D, which proves to be her biggest regret.

Aria and Ezra: A Love Story That Divides Fans

The relationship between Aria Montgomery and Ezra Fitz is arguably the most controversial aspect of “Pretty Little Liars.” Their initial romance, sparked in a bar before Aria knows Ezra is her new English teacher, is fraught with ethical and legal implications. The student-teacher dynamic immediately raises red flags, prompting heated debates among viewers about the appropriateness and romanticization of such a relationship.

Despite the controversy, the writers of “Pretty Little Liars” heavily invested in Aria and Ezra’s relationship, portraying it as a passionate and enduring love story. The undeniable chemistry between the actors, Lucy Hale and Ian Harding, certainly contributed to the couple’s fanbase, but the underlying issues of power imbalance and grooming remain undeniable and deeply problematic for many.

Throughout the series, their relationship faces numerous challenges. “A” uses their secret as a weapon, constantly threatening to expose them and ruin their lives. Ezra’s past also comes back to haunt them, revealing hidden secrets and raising questions about his true intentions. Other love interests come and go, testing their loyalty and commitment to each other. However, despite all obstacles, Aria and Ezra consistently find their way back to each other, solidifying their status as one of the show’s central couples.

Even with all the drama, Ezra has always been a supportive force in Aria’s life, encouraging her artistic pursuits and standing by her side through the darkest moments. This support makes their relationship enduring. Despite the moral dilemma, the “Pretty Little Liars” series seemingly justifies their relationship, concluding with their marriage.

Whether you view Aria and Ezra as a genuine love story or a problematic pairing, their relationship is undeniable. It served as a narrative device that fueled countless storylines and divided viewers. The debate surrounding their relationship continues to this day, making it a lasting legacy of “Pretty Little Liars.”

Aria’s Moral Compass: Navigating the Grey Areas

Living under the constant threat of “A” forces Aria and her friends to make difficult choices, often blurring the lines between right and wrong. Aria, in particular, finds herself making morally ambiguous decisions that test her own ethical boundaries. From lying to the police to covering up evidence, Aria engages in actions that would be considered unacceptable in a normal situation.

One could argue that these choices are justifiable given the extraordinary circumstances. Aria and her friends are constantly being blackmailed, manipulated, and threatened by an anonymous tormentor who seems to know their every move. They are forced to take matters into their own hands because they cannot trust the authorities or even their own families.

However, the ends do not always justify the means. Some of Aria’s actions have severe consequences, harming innocent people and further entangling her and her friends in the web of lies and secrets. Her decision to briefly side with A.D. to protect Ezra, for example, is a betrayal that deeply affects her relationships with the other liars.

Despite her flaws, Aria always strives to do what she believes is right, even if it means sacrificing her own happiness. Her moral compass may be skewed by the circumstances, but her intentions are generally good. She is a complex and flawed character, but her willingness to fight for her friends and loved ones makes her relatable and sympathetic.

Aria’s Style and Its Influence

Aria Montgomery is known for her eclectic and unique fashion sense. She’s the “Pretty Little Liars” character who isn’t afraid to experiment with different styles, mixing vintage pieces with edgy modern looks. Aria’s style can be described as a bohemian-goth-chic blend, creating a look that is instantly recognizable and undeniably her own.

Throughout the series, Aria’s style evolves to reflect her personal growth and the challenges she faces. In the early seasons, her style is more carefree and whimsical, reflecting her youthful optimism. As the “A” game intensifies, her style becomes darker and edgier, mirroring the darkness that surrounds her.

Aria’s style became a source of inspiration for many “Pretty Little Liars” viewers. Her willingness to break fashion rules and express herself through her clothing resonated with teenagers and young adults who were searching for their own unique identities. Countless articles and blog posts were dedicated to dissecting Aria’s outfits and providing tips on how to recreate her looks. Her influence on the teen fashion scene was undeniable, making her a style icon for a generation.

Conclusion

Aria Montgomery is the heart of the show. She is a complex, flawed, and relatable character who embodies the spirit of the show.

From her controversial romance with Ezra to her morally ambiguous decisions, Aria’s journey is full of twists and turns. The question of Aria’s redemption constantly lingers. Did Aria’s mistakes define her, or did she rise above them? The beauty of Aria Montgomery’s character lies in her imperfection. She is a reflection of the challenges and complexities of growing up in a world filled with secrets, lies, and betrayals. Whether you love her or hate her, Aria Montgomery’s lasting impact on “Pretty Little Liars” and its fans is undeniable. This raises the question: Can true growth only stem from confronting our darkest choices?