Finn Collins: A Complex Character in The 100

Early Characterization: The Idealist’s Arrival

The post-apocalyptic drama The 100 is renowned for its morally gray characters and the impossible choices they face in their struggle for survival. Among them, Finn Collins initially stood out as a beacon of hope, a character who sought peace and connection in a brutal world. His initial charm and his role as a potential love interest for Clarke Griffin quickly endeared him to audiences. However, Finn’s journey took a dark and controversial turn, transforming him from an idealistic young man into a figure whose actions sparked heated debate among viewers. This transformation challenges us to question our own understanding of morality when confronted with the desperation of survival and the blurred lines of right and wrong. Finn the 100, at first glance, seems a simple character, but his evolution is one of the most crucial studies of character within the show’s run.

When the hundred delinquents were sent down to Earth to test its habitability, Finn Collins arrived as a breath of fresh air. Unlike some of the more hardened and rebellious individuals, Finn possessed a genuine sense of optimism and a desire to explore the beauty of this new, albeit dangerous, world. He approached the unknown with curiosity rather than aggression, a trait that immediately set him apart.

His arrival on Earth was marked by wonder. While others focused on immediate survival and establishing dominance, Finn was captivated by the environment, expressing his fascination with the plants, the animals, and the sheer possibility of a new beginning. This perspective was crucial in those early days, providing a counterpoint to the fear and violence that threatened to consume the group. He represented the hope that humanity could learn from its past mistakes and build a better future.

Finn’s desire for peace was not merely a naive wish. He actively sought ways to understand and connect with the Grounders, the native inhabitants of Earth. He expressed a genuine interest in their culture, their beliefs, and their way of life. He believed that peaceful coexistence was possible, even in the face of past conflict and deeply rooted mistrust. This is showcased in his many attempts to leave offerings and initiate first contact without weapons or hostile intent. He sought not confrontation but understanding.

Central to Finn’s early characterization was his relationship with Clarke Griffin. Their bond developed quickly, based on a shared sense of responsibility and a mutual respect for each other. They were both drawn to the idea of building a community and creating a better world. The relationship was balanced with both characters exhibiting care and concern towards the other’s well-being. Their connection transcended the immediate challenges of survival and offered a glimpse of genuine human connection amidst the chaos. The bond they forged became a cornerstone of the group’s early efforts to establish a foothold on Earth.

The Turning Point: Descent Into Darkness

The turning point in Finn’s character arc arrived with Clarke’s disappearance. After a deal was struck with Lexa, the Commander of the Grounders, Clarke vanished, leaving Finn consumed by worry and a desperate need to find her. This event triggered a significant shift in his behavior, leading him down a path of desperation and ultimately, violence. It is in this moment that the idealistic Finn began to fade.

As days turned into weeks, Finn’s obsession with finding Clarke intensified. He became increasingly reckless, disregarding the safety of others and prioritizing his personal mission above all else. The rational and compassionate young man began to make erratic decisions driven by fear. His descent was fueled by the belief that Clarke was being held captive, subjected to torture, or worse. This conviction, however unfounded, became his sole focus.

His desperation culminated in the infamous village massacre, a pivotal moment that forever changed his character and the perception of him. Driven by the belief that Clarke was being held prisoner, Finn stormed a Grounder village, opening fire on the innocent inhabitants. He convinced himself that he was doing what was necessary to save the woman he loved, but his actions were undeniably brutal and indiscriminate.

The immediate consequences of the massacre were catastrophic. The fragile peace that had been painstakingly built between the hundred and the Grounders was shattered. The act of violence resulted in a complete breach of trust, triggering a cycle of revenge and retaliation. More than that, it drastically altered the audience’s view of Finn. He was no longer seen as a hero or a peacemaker, but as a perpetrator of violence and a symbol of the show’s willingness to explore the dark side of humanity. Finn the 100 became a focal point for discussions on the morality of war and the justification of violence.

Consequences and Attempts at Redemption

The massacre left Finn deeply scarred, both physically and emotionally. He struggled to reconcile his actions with his previous ideals, haunted by the faces of the innocent people he had killed. The weight of his guilt and the knowledge of the damage he had caused became an unbearable burden. His initial reactions were of denial, but soon acceptance dawned and he knew his path to redemption would be difficult, if not impossible.

The massacre also placed an unbearable strain on his relationship with Clarke. While she understood the desperation that drove him, she could not condone his actions. The bond they once shared was now fractured by guilt and betrayal. The trust that was once the foundation of their relationship was broken, leaving Clarke with the impossible task of balancing her love for Finn with her responsibility to her people.

The Grounders, understandably, demanded retribution for the massacre. Lexa, in a difficult decision, called for Finn’s execution as the only way to prevent a full-scale war. This decision tested Clarke’s leadership, forcing her to choose between her love for Finn and the survival of her people.

In a heartbreaking climax, Clarke made the agonizing choice to kill Finn herself, sparing him a more gruesome death at the hands of the Grounders. The act was a mercy killing, but it was also a profound act of sacrifice. Clarke was forced to take a life to save the lives of many, forever marking her own journey as a leader.

Whether Finn’s death can be seen as an act of redemption is a matter of debate. While his sacrifice did prevent a war, it did not erase the atrocities he had committed. He took lives, a stark contrast to his initial desire to preserve them. Some argue that his willingness to face the consequences of his actions demonstrates a desire for atonement, but others maintain that his crimes were too grave to be forgiven. The narrative of Finn the 100 left the audience grappling with the complex questions of forgiveness and accountability.

Finn’s Lasting Impact and Legacy

Finn’s actions and ultimate fate had a profound impact on Clarke, shaping her future decisions and leadership. She was forced to confront the reality that even the most well-intentioned individuals are capable of unspeakable acts, and that survival often comes at a terrible cost. His actions hardened her, but also forced her to accept the grim realities of leadership and war. The experience left an indelible mark on her soul.

More broadly, Finn’s character contributes to The 100‘s exploration of the moral gray areas that exist in extreme situations. The show consistently challenges the audience to question their own values and beliefs, forcing us to confront the uncomfortable truth that there are no easy answers in a world where survival is the only imperative. He highlights how survival changes one’s core persona.

The controversial nature of Finn’s actions led to mixed reactions from viewers. Some defended him, arguing that his actions were understandable in the context of a desperate search for a loved one. Others condemned him, viewing his massacre as an unforgivable act of violence.

Those who defended Finn pointed to the psychological trauma he had suffered as a result of the apocalypse, suggesting that his actions were the product of PTSD and fear. They also argued that his love for Clarke was a mitigating factor, and that he acted out of a misguided desire to protect her.

Conversely, critics of Finn argued that his actions were inexcusable, regardless of his circumstances. They pointed out that he had killed innocent people and that his violence had caused irreparable damage to the fragile peace between the hundred and the Grounders. They maintained that his actions were a betrayal of his own ideals and that he should be held accountable for his crimes. Finn the 100‘s story sparked debates that continued long after his character was gone from the show.

Conclusion: A Character of Contradiction

Finn Collins remains one of the most complex and controversial characters in The 100. His journey from an idealistic peacemaker to a desperate killer serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of human nature and the corrupting influence of violence. While he initially sought to build bridges and foster understanding, he ultimately succumbed to the darkness that pervades the world of The 100.

Ultimately, Finn’s story forces us to grapple with the uncomfortable questions that lie at the heart of the show. What are the limits of morality when survival is at stake? Can violence ever be justified, even in the face of extreme circumstances? And is redemption possible for those who have crossed the line? Finn’s character, with all his flaws and contradictions, embodies the moral ambiguities that define The 100, leaving a lasting impact on the narrative and prompting viewers to examine their own moral compass. His presence in the show ensures a lasting reflection on how people can be changed when faced with the worst situations, making Finn the 100 a central figure of discussion to this day. Finn’s legacy serves as a reminder of the dangers of unchecked power, the importance of accountability, and the enduring need for hope in a world consumed by darkness.