The Complexity of Siblings' Names in 'Prison Break': A Behind-the-Scenes Look

The television series 'Prison Break' follows the story of Michael Scofield and Lincoln Burrows, two brothers who share an intricate and compelling narrative. However, despite being biological siblings, these characters have different surnames, which adds another layer of depth to their relationship and their motivations. This article will explore the reasons behind their different surnames and the significance it has on their story.

Family Background and Surname Divergence

In 'Prison Break', Michael Scofield and Lincoln Burrows are not actually brothers born to the same mother. The disparity in their surnames is a result of the complex family dynamics they come from. Specifically, Michael is the biological son of their mother Elizabeth, while Lincoln is a biological son of a different father. The story begins to unravel this truth during Episode 4 of Season 1, when Elizabeth discloses the full family lineage to Michael.

Exploring the Reasons Behind the Name Differences

The differences in their surnames can be attributed to several factors, ranging from legal requirements to cultural practices:

Shared Father but Separate Mothers: The simplest explanation for the name difference is that because they share only one parent, each took the surname of their respective mothers. If their moms were in separate relationships, maintaining distinct surnames further solidifies the individual family identities. Legal and Jurisdictional Requirements: In some jurisdictions, such as Washington DC, children must take their mother's maiden name if the parents are not married, even if they are in a committed relationship. This rule could have applied if Lincoln's parents were not formally married at the time of his birth. Family Traditions and Customs: In some families, particularly those with immigrant backgrounds or specific cultural customs, choosing different surnames can have symbolic or significant meaning. For example, some families in Iran only adopted surnames in 1934, while patronymic naming customs in Scandinavian countries mean different naming conventions every generation. Personal Decisions and Life Changes: Siblings may choose different surnames due to personal decisions such as religious conversions, immigrations, or other life changes. For instance, one brother might change their name due to personal reasons or before surname laws came into effect, without their brother knowing.

Examining a Case from High School

Interestingly, this situation shares similarities with a real-life case that the series' writers might have drawn inspiration from. During the high school years, a close friend had a sister and a brother who were born under different circumstances. One sister was born when their parents were not married, and hence she took their mother's maiden name, whereas the brother, born afterwards, remained with his step-father's surname. This real-life example supports the hypothesis that surname differences can indeed result from the legal and social norms surrounding childbirth and marriage.

Conclusion: The Significance of Surname Differences

The differences in the surnames of Michael Scofield and Lincoln Burrows are not just about names; they encapsulate the intricacies of their family backgrounds and lay the groundwork for their characters' development in 'Prison Break.' This nuanced detail adds depth to their relationship, driving their actions and motivations throughout the series. Understanding these differences not only enriches the viewing experience but also sets the stage for the complex and compelling narrative that fans of the series cherish.