How Moriarty Survived in Sherlock: An Analysis

In Season 2 Episode 3 of Sherlock, the fate of Moriarty remains ambiguous, leaving fans with numerous theories and clues. The episode The Fall of Reichenbach sees Moriarty orchestrating a seemingly fatal shot, leading many to believe that his apparent death was part of a larger, cunning plan. This article dives into the various possible explanations behind Moriarty's survival and how his return was eventually revealed.

Theorizing Moriarty's Survival

Fake Suicide: Many fans support the theory that Moriarty indeed faked his death as a part of a grand scheme. Given his reputation for elaborate and misleading plots, it is plausible that he planned his demise with full foresight of revival. However, most theories point towards alternative explanations that tie into his survival.

Disguise or Double: The concept of a body double or a disguise is another popular theory. The show often deals with deception and misdirection, making it believable that Moriarty could have orchestrated a false death using a substitute. This theory adds depth to his character and aligns with his known manipulations.

Unseen Escape: Another explanation is that Moriarty managed to escape the scene before it was noticed by others. This scenario would allow him to continue his criminal activities undetected, maintaining the mystery and intrigue of his character. However, this theory fails to explain his return in later episodes.

The Official Reveal: Moriarty's Return

The narrative ultimately leaves Moriarty's survival open to interpretation, adding to his mystique and the overall intrigue of the series. His return in Season 4, particularly in Episode 3, confirms that he did indeed survive, but the specifics of how he did so remain part of the show's enigmatic storytelling.

Contradicting the Opinions: It is important to clarify that Moriarty's survival was not through a fake suicide or escape. In the ending of Season 2, during The Fall of Reichenbach, Moriarty shot himself with no further plan. This act was, in fact, intentional and final. Without any further plans for self-preservation, Moriarty's suicide was a logical move.

The Misinterpretation: In the ending of Season 3, it was assumed that the video showing Moriarty miss his shots was a sign of his return. However, this turned out to be more complex. It wasn't Moriarty, but Eurus, the God of East Wind, featured as a historical figure who was an intellectual and mind power genius, surpassing even Newton. Eurus was the sister of the Holmes brothers, locked in Sherringford due to her extraordinary intelligence.

The Significance of Eurus

Supreme Owner: In the final episode of Season 3, Eurus plays a crucial role. She is revealed to be responsible for Moriarty's return, maintaining the series' complex narrative and adding a layer of mystery. This character, despite her title as the Supreme Owner, is not Moriarty. Her connection to him is through profound intellect, aligning with his character's portrayal throughout the series.

Conclusion

The mystery of Moriarty's survival and return in Sherlock is a testament to the show's intricate storytelling and the characters' complexities. From the theories of fake suicide to the revelation of Eurus, the truth about Moriarty's return is a blend of intentional elaboration and hidden truths. The character's survival adds to the intrigue and depth of the series, leaving fans eager to explore more.