Breaking Bad: Walt Jr. as a Snitch or a Protagonist?

In the last episode of Breaking Bad, many critics and fans were left questioning Walt Jr.'s actions when he called his father on the phone. Some might argue he simply projected his weaknesses and acted like a snitch, while others believe he showed maturity and strength by confronting his father amid betrayal and conflict.

Walter Jr. and His Character Development

Another episode, if you had just found out your father was a drug lord who had had people killed - including your uncle whom you felt closer to than to him - how would you react if he called you from hiding after attacking your mother and running off with your baby sister? Remember that Walt admitted to killing Hank and spun it as an attack on Skyler to throw suspicion off himself. Would you not tell him to go to hell?

Controversial Opinion

Controversially, I believe Walter Jr. indeed acted like a snitch, showing both submission and weakness. Walt's actions led to a breakdown in family relationships, and Walter Jr. faced the frightening realization of his father's true identity. His immediate dismissal of his father and his decision to report him to the police reveal a significant shift in his character. This transformation was fueled by underlying tensions rooted in his Oedipus complex.

The Oedipus Complex in Play

Since the moment Skyler took extra bacon off his plate to give it to Walt for his birthday as a birthday present, Walter Jr. felt a deep hatred towards his father. This seed of hatred grew into a structured rivalry, manifesting in the form of an Oedipus complex. Consumed by this complex, Walter Jr. viewed his father as a rival and, by extension, saw a breaking point in their relationship. His actions in the final episode were a culmination of this long-standing animosity.

Sacred Rituals and Contemporary Conflicts

Walter Jr.'s "holy sacrament" of family dinners became a symbol of their father-son bond. However, once this ritual was ruined, it created a sense of loss and betrayal. The idea of his father enjoying pancakes and bacon without any familial strife is abhorrent to him, emphasizing his sense of loss and anger. This perspective can be empathized with, as it reflects the pain of seeing a revered family figure diminished and replaced by a complex, dangerous man.

Father-Child Relationship and Conflicting Allegiances

Understanding Walter Jr.'s motivations requires delving into the dynamics of their relationship. Walter Jr. was always impressionable, vulnerable, and lacked self-confidence. Instead of questioning his own actions or fatherly expectations, he blindly followed his father's bidding. However, when the truth came to light, his loyalty wavered, leading to a moment of confrontation and betrayal. This performance was laden with dramatic irony, given that he had himself betrayals from members of his family.

Conclusion

Walter Jr.'s actions in the final episode of Breaking Bad can be seen as both a reflection of his weaknesses and a moment of strength. The underlying Oedipus complex and family dynamics played a significant role in his decision to report his father. While some may view this as a succumbing to temptation and a betrayal, others might see it as a breaking point in the father-son conflict, revealing a new level of maturity and an unwavering resolve to protect his family. This complex interplay of emotions and motivations makes for a compelling and thought-provoking finale.

Do you agree with this analysis? Share your thoughts on whether Walter Jr. came across as a snitch or a protagonist in the last episode of Breaking Bad.