Character Analysis: Deals and Dilemmas - Legal Drama Characters in 'Pearson'

Legal dramas often feature complex and multi-dimensional characters that bring both scrutiny and admiration. In the series 'Pearson', each character has a unique role and personality that shapes the storyline. This article focuses on two key characters, Rachael Zane and Daniel Hardman, and analyzes their behaviors and impacts on the narrative.

Rachael Zane: The Monotonous and Annoying Paralegal

Rachael Zane, a paralegal at Pearson Hardman and Weber, has garnered a reputation for her self-centered and annoying behaviors. Her tendency to think the world revolves around her is consistent throughout the series. This attitude becomes particularly evident when she reacts to her rejection from Harvard University, not by reflecting on her shortcomings, but by lashing out at her colleagues.

Rejection from Harvard: Rachael's self-centered nature is highlighted when she starts pouting over her rejection from Harvard, claiming she wasn't good enough. This reaction shows a lack of maturity and self-awareness. Harvey and Donna's Secret: When both Harvey and Donna tell Mike not to tell Rachael about their secret, she becomes furious. Rachael's anger isn't solely directed at Mike; it is aimed at the firm's senior partners for not including her. Mike as the Punchbag: Mike, another paralegal, becomes the punching bag for everyone at Pearson. Despite his photographic memory, Mike's actions and attitudes annoy Rachael, and she takes every opportunity to criticize him.

The character of Rachael exhibits patterns of immaturity and entitlement, which make her monotonous and annoying to watch. This behavior is not only detrimental to her professional relationships but also hampers the narrative progression in the show.

Daniel Hardman: The Devious and Mean Old Snob

Together with Louis O'Donnell, Daniel Hardman represents the unkind, self-absorbed, and unrepentant personality that can thrive in corporate environments. Dan is a prime example of someone who is difficult to sympathize with or root for. His behavior is often cold, calculating, and disrespectful, which contributes to his negative portrayal in the series.

Post-Wife's Death: Although Dan's wife dies, his reaction is purely focused on the fact that the firm is willing to help him retain his share as a managing director. This shows a lack of genuine grief and empathy, further solidifying his mean and self-centered personality. Devious Nature: Dan is not above using unethical means to achieve his goals. His schemes and manipulations often put the other characters in a difficult position, such as attempting to manipulate Louis' actions and decisions:

Unlike Rachael, who is often on the receiving end of criticism and is eventually skipped by some viewers, Dan's character adds a level of complexity to the narrative. His presence is significant, often serving as a foil to the more optimistic and ethical characters in the show.

Reflection and Growth in Louis O'Donnell

While Dan and Rachael are often criticized for their negative traits, their counterparts Louis O'Donnell and Mike Ross exhibit growth and transformation throughout the series.

Louis O'Donnell: Louis, clearly the most developed character of the show, undergoes a significant transformation. His initial hesitance and uncertainties eventually give way to a strong sense of integrity and loyalty. His journey from a hesitant law school graduate to a seasoned lawyer with a firm ethical compass illustrates the kind of growth that resonates with audiences. Mike Ross: Mike Ross, with his photographic memory, represents a different kind of growth. Despite his initial naivety, he evolves into a respected and influential member of the firm. His character arc is marked by his coming-of-age story and the challenges he faces in maintaining his cover and his ethical standards.

Both Louis and Mike's growth storylines emphasize the importance of character development in showing the human side of legal dramas. Their journey is a narrative that provides a sense of hope and direction, contrasting with the more negative aspects depicted in characters like Dan and Rachael.

Conclusion

The characters of Rachael Zane and Daniel Hardman in 'Pearson' represent the darker side of corporate intrigue and self-centered behavior. While they are not the most beloved characters in the show, their roles are crucial in highlighting the complexity and ethical dilemmas that often arise in legal practices. Their presence serves to mirror the real-world conflicts and challenges faced by legal professionals, making their interactions and misadventures both entertaining and thought-provoking.

For viewers who enjoy legal dramas, the show 'Pearson' offers a unique blend of drama, suspense, and character development. However, for some, characters like Rachael and Dan may be too difficult to watch due to their persistent negative traits and behaviors.