The Unlikable Character of Zoe Barnes in 'House of Cards': An Analysis

Introduction

"House of Cards, " a political thriller series that narrates the story of the Underwood family's rise to power, has captivated audiences worldwide. However, while viewers rally behind the Underwoods, one character, Zoe Barnes, played by Kate Mara, often garners a polarizing response due to her complex and often questionable traits.

Complex Traits Contributing to Zoe's Unlikability

Zoe Barnes is a character with a multifaceted, flawed character that contributes to her unlikability. Her relentless pursuit of success through manipulative and self-serving actions makes her a challenging character for many viewers. Let's break down these traits and understand why Zoe is so polarizing.

Ambition at Any Cost

Ambition is a driving force behind Zoe Barnes' character. She is unapologetically ambitious, willing to manipulate those around her to achieve her goals. This approach often results in her being perceived as self-serving, which can alienate viewers who may find her actions unethical.

Manipulative Behavior

One of the most prominent traits that make Zoe unlikable is her manipulative behavior. Notably, her relationships with characters like Frank Underwood highlight her manipulation. Her willingness to exploit power dynamics for personal gain can be seen as untrustworthy and opportunistic, making it difficult for viewers to root for her in the long run.

Lack of Morality

Moral ambiguity is a crucial aspect of Zoe's character. Her moral compass is often questioned, especially in scenarios where she prioritizes her career over ethical considerations. This makes her a less relatable and more antagonistic figure, which can detract from the enjoyment of the show.

Entitlement

In certain moments, Zoe displays a sense of entitlement, believing that her successes and recognition are a foregone conclusion. This attitude can be off-putting to viewers who value hard work and humility. Her belief that she deserves success without fully considering its consequences can be seen as arrogant and immature.

A Surface-Level Turnaround

While Zoe is initially presented as an unlikable character, her arc takes an interesting turn in season 2. She begins to show a different side, becoming more relatable and likeable. This shift comes after she has made significant gains through her manipulative and strategic maneuvers. It's clear that the writers intended for Zoe to have potential, but she needed a bit of help to reach it.

Initial Perceptions and Resentment

Many viewers take issue with the fact that Zoe is perceived as having 'slept her way to the top.' This sentiment is often shared among those who have worked hard to achieve their goals and find manipulation and underhanded tactics disgusting. However, it's also important to note that Zoe's journey is part of the show's intricate narrative, and her actions are typically justified within the context of the series.

The Frank Underwood Illusion

In Season 1, Frank Underwood expresses the idea that proximity to power often gives people a false sense that they can control it. Zoe's initial belief in her ability to represent the information age and Twitter is a stark contrast to this illusion. As Zoe gains benefits from Frank, her ambition grows, but by the end of the season, she is foolish to think she can be equal to Frank in the game of politics.

Frank clearly states that power is always elusive, even for those close to it, and Zoe's journey reflects this theme. She starts from a place of naivety, thinking she can control her own destiny, but by the end, she realizes that power is too complex and fluid to be mastered by anyone, let alone someone as manipulative as Zoe.

Thus, despite her potential, Zoe is a character designed to be unlikable, to serve as a foil to the Underwood's seemingly unstoppable rise to power. Her character arc, while intriguing, ultimately contributes to the show's overarching narrative of power, manipulation, and ambition in the political world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Zoe Barnes remains a complex and unlikable character in 'House of Cards.' Her ambitious nature, manipulative tactics, and moral ambiguity make her a challenging figure for many viewers. However, her arc offers a glimpse into the complex world of power and politics, inviting viewers to consider the ethics and morality behind every move made in the game of cards.