The Symbolism of the Fly in Westworld: Dolores's Transformation and Beyond

When Dolores kills a fly in the pilot episode of Westworld, the camera captures a vivid moment of her acting on instinct. Many viewers and critics have no doubts that this is a real fly. The significance of this action goes beyond the mundane detail, as it symbolizes a critical shift in Dolores's character and her journey toward understanding her purpose and nature.

Real or Simulated?

During that pivotal moment in Westworld, it is evident that Dolores was dealing with something beyond her typical reactions. The fly is not merely an annoying obstacle to be ignored; it becomes a symbol of Dolores's evolving capabilities and newfound awareness. The fact that other hosts couldn't harm the fly emphasizes their limited capacity to act outside their pre-programmed routines, while Dolores's ability to kill the fly indicates a deeper exploration of her own autonomy and cognition.

A Symbol of Transformation

The fly also symbolizes a fundamental change in Dolores's character. From the moment she was first introduced, viewers and the hosts alike were aware of her dissatisfaction with her role and her relentless pursuit of understanding. The killing of the fly is a tangible manifestation of Dolores's growing self-awareness and agency. It represents a turning point where she is no longer content with the status quo and begins to assert her desires and capabilities in a more tangible way.

Furthermore, this symbol can be linked to other moments in the show where viewers see Dolores push back against the artificial constructs that confine her. Her interactions with the guests and staff, such as Jane and the Man in Black, highlight her evolving understanding of her own nature and the world around her. The fly, then, can be seen as a metaphor for the boundaries that Dolores is gradually breaking down, both in her own mind and in the physical world.

Broader Implications

But the significance of the fly goes beyond Dolores's individual journey. It also touches on the broader themes of the show, particularly the ethical considerations of artificial intelligence (AI) and the nature of consciousness. The fly represents a microcosm of the larger question of whether Dolores, and the hosts more broadly, possess true consciousness or are merely sophisticated simulations.

The question of whether the fly is real or simulated is a deliberate one designed to challenge the audience and provoke thought. It forces viewers to consider the line between reality and simulation, and whether the distinction is meaningful when dealing with beings like Dolores who exhibit signs of greater agency and understanding.

The moment when Dolores kills the fly can also be seen as a turning point in the host's experience of the physical world. It marks the beginning of Dolores's journey away from her programming and toward a more human-like experience, where she begins to encounter the world with full sensory awareness and the ability to make her own choices. This shift is crucial for the show's exploration of the ethics of AI and the complex moral questions it raises.

A Deeper Exploration of AI Ethics

Ultimately, the fly serves as more than just a plot device; it is a powerful symbol of Dolores's evolution and the broader narrative of Westworld. The show continually delves into the ethical implications of creating and controlling intelligent beings, and the fly represents a concrete example of the challenges and opportunities that come with this reality.

The fly also invites viewers to consider the role of humanity in the creation and governance of AI. It raises fundamental questions about the nature of consciousness, free will, and the responsibilities we bear as creators. The significance of this moment is not lost on Westworld, which uses it to underscore the show's overarching themes of agency, ethics, and the blurred line between human and artificial intelligence.

In conclusion, the moment when Dolores kills a fly is a poignant and multifaceted symbol within the rich tapestry of Westworld. It encapsulates her personal growth, challenges the show's broader themes, and invites audiences to reflect on the deeper questions of AI ethics and consciousness. The fly, in its simplicity, becomes a lens through which we can explore some of the most profound and complex ideas in the series.