Finn Collins: From Idealist to Killer – A Tragic Hero of The 100?
Introduction
Finn Collins was a character who ignited impassioned debate amongst fans of The 100. Initially presented as a kind and optimistic soul, his journey took a dark turn, forcing viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about survival, morality, and the psychological cost of war. Before the apocalypse, Finn was a petty thief. On The Ark, Finn took the blame for Raven’s attempt to go on a spacewalk, sacrificing his life to save her. This act showed Finn’s deep love for Raven and proved his good nature. Set against the backdrop of a post-apocalyptic Earth, The 100 follows a group of juvenile delinquents sent from a dying space station, the Ark, to determine if the planet is habitable. Among these delinquents was Finn, a young man initially embodying hope and compassion. Finn’s actions highlight the morally ambiguous landscape of The 100, challenging us to grapple with difficult questions about justification, redemption, and the nature of humanity when pushed to its limits. In the narrative of The 100, Finn’s journey from an idealistic young man to a troubled survivor underscores the show’s central themes of sacrifice, moral compromise, and the enduring impact of trauma.
The Early Days: A Glimmer of Hope
In the early episodes of The 100, Finn stands out as a beacon of optimism. While others are quick to resort to violence or prioritize immediate survival, Finn consistently seeks peaceful solutions and demonstrates a genuine empathy for those around him. He views the Earth not as a hostile enemy to be conquered, but as a world to be explored and understood. His first instinct is to connect with the Grounders, the native inhabitants of the planet, rather than engage in conflict. Finn’s compassionate nature is evident in his relationship with Clarke Griffin. Initially, their connection is built on a shared desire to protect their fellow delinquents and establish a sense of order. Finn acts as a calming influence on Clarke, encouraging her to think critically and consider alternative approaches. He actively seeks ways to avoid confrontation, often suggesting diplomacy and negotiation instead of outright aggression. In moments of crisis, Finn is the one who tries to mediate, offering a different perspective and urging others to see the situation from all angles. This initial portrayal positions Finn as a character who represents the best of humanity, a counterpoint to the more ruthless and pragmatic figures like Bellamy Blake, whose initial focus is on maintaining control through force. Finn embodies the hope for a peaceful future, a stark contrast to the brutal reality of their situation.
The Descent into Darkness: Trauma Takes Hold
The idyllic image of Finn Collins begins to crumble as the realities of survival on Earth take their toll. The constant threat of attack, the loss of friends, and the psychological pressure of leadership gradually erode his idealism. A significant turning point occurs when a group of delinquents is captured by the Grounders. Finn, desperately searching for Clarke after she is abducted, begins to exhibit signs of paranoia and desperation. This desperation fuels a shift in his behavior, making him increasingly reckless and unpredictable. The transformation culminates in a horrifying event: the massacre in a Grounder village. Driven by the mistaken belief that Clarke is being held captive there, Finn opens fire on unarmed villagers, killing innocent men, women, and children. This act marks a dramatic and irreversible shift in Finn’s character. The compassionate idealist is replaced by a man consumed by fear and trauma, willing to commit unspeakable acts in the name of survival. Finn’s rationale, though born from desperation and fear, fails to justify the scale of the violence. The consequences of his actions are immediate and devastating, triggering a cycle of revenge and escalating the conflict between The 100 and the Grounders.
Moral Crossroads: Justification and Judgment
Finn’s massacre raises profound questions about morality in a world where survival is paramount. Was he justified in his desperate search for Clarke, even if it meant resorting to violence? To what extent was he responsible for his actions, given the extreme circumstances and the psychological trauma he had endured? The show deliberately avoids easy answers, presenting a nuanced and morally ambiguous landscape where the lines between right and wrong are often blurred. Some argue that Finn was a victim of circumstance, driven to the edge by fear and desperation. They point to the constant threat of violence, the loss of loved ones, and the lack of resources as mitigating factors. Others condemn his actions as unforgivable, arguing that no amount of desperation can excuse the killing of innocent people. They emphasize the importance of accountability and the need to uphold moral principles, even in the face of extreme adversity. The moral debate surrounding Finn is further complicated by the show’s broader exploration of the nature of survival. The 100 consistently challenges viewers to consider the difficult choices that individuals and communities must make when faced with impossible situations. There are no easy solutions, and every decision carries a heavy price. The online fan reaction to Finn’s character has been one of the most polarized in the series. He is loved and hated with equal intensity, with fans passionately defending or condemning his actions. This division reflects the show’s success in creating complex and morally ambiguous characters that provoke meaningful discussions.
Love and Loss: The Bonds That Defined Him
Finn’s relationships with Clarke and Raven play a crucial role in shaping his character and ultimately contribute to his tragic fate. His connection with Clarke begins as a shared responsibility to protect their people, evolving into a deep and passionate romance. They bond over their shared experiences, finding solace and strength in each other’s company. However, Finn’s massacre shatters their relationship, creating an insurmountable divide between them. Clarke is forced to confront the reality of Finn’s actions, wrestling with her love for him and her responsibility to her people. The trust and affection they once shared are replaced by a profound sense of betrayal and moral conflict. Finn’s relationship with Raven is equally complex and emotionally charged. Before arriving on Earth, Finn and Raven were deeply in love. Raven’s unwavering loyalty and technical expertise make her an invaluable asset to the group. However, Raven is betrayed by Finn and Clarke’s romance. When Finn commits the massacre, Raven is deeply affected and wants to inflict suffering. Despite everything, Raven still loves Finn deeply. Finn’s relationship highlights the complexities of love, loyalty, and forgiveness in a world torn apart by violence.
Sacrifice and Redemption: The End of Finn Collins
Ultimately, Finn makes the ultimate sacrifice to prevent further bloodshed. He turns himself over to the Grounders to atone for his crimes, knowing that he will face certain death. His death is a pivotal moment in the series, forcing Clarke and the other characters to confront the consequences of their actions and the complexities of the conflict between The 100 and the Grounders. Finn’s death has a profound impact on Clarke, leaving her guilt-ridden and burdened by the weight of her decisions. It also serves as a catalyst for a more peaceful resolution to the conflict, as Clarke realizes that violence is not the answer. Raven is also deeply affected by Finn’s sacrifice, struggling to reconcile her love for him with the horror of his actions. Finn’s final act of selflessness serves as a testament to his underlying goodness, even after his descent into darkness. Finn is a reminder that even the most flawed individuals are capable of redemption, and that even in the darkest of times, hope can still prevail. His actions before his death showed that he was trying to take responsibility and that there was still some goodness left in him. He tried to make up for what he had done by sacrificing himself to save others.
A Legacy of Complexity: Finn’s Enduring Impact
Finn Collins leaves behind a complex legacy, serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked trauma and the moral compromises that individuals are often forced to make in times of war. Finn’s tragic arc serves as a constant reminder of the fragility of human nature and the potential for even the most well-intentioned individuals to be corrupted by violence. His story reinforces the show’s central themes of survival, morality, and the enduring impact of trauma. More than that, Finn’s legacy is a poignant reminder of the human cost of war, highlighting the enduring scars that violence leaves on both victims and perpetrators alike. In the grand narrative of The 100, Finn Collins remains a controversial figure, sparking heated debates about the justification for his actions and the complexities of moral responsibility. His journey from idealistic youth to troubled survivor challenges us to confront uncomfortable truths about ourselves and the world we live in.
Conclusion
Finn Collins’ story in The 100 serves as a tragic exploration of the psychological toll of survival, demonstrating how war and trauma can corrupt even the most well-intentioned individuals. His character arc, marked by a descent from idealism to violence, highlights the morally grey landscape of the show, forcing viewers to confront difficult questions about survival, justice, and forgiveness. While his actions were undeniably reprehensible, his ultimate sacrifice offers a glimmer of redemption, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, hope can still prevail. Finn Collins remains a complex and controversial figure, whose legacy continues to spark debate and challenge our understanding of morality in a post-apocalyptic world, making Finn one of the most memorable and impactful characters in The 100.
