Why Did Dolores Abernathy Become a Major Star of Westworld: An Analysis

Introduction to Dolores Abernathy

Westworld, the critically acclaimed television series, has captivated audiences with its intricate narrative and compelling characters. Among these, Dolores Abernathy stands out as a major star of the series, despite initial doubts about her suitability. This article delves into the reasons behind her success, particularly focusing on how she represents the 'everyman' character trope and the present cultural shift towards narrating stories from a female perspective.

The Everyman Character

The 'everyman' character is a common trope in media that represents an ordinary person, making the audience more relatable and emotionally invested in the character's journey. This character type has been central to various forms of storytelling, providing depth and universality. In Westworld, Dolores Abernathy is a striking example of this trope, as she is not just a human but a sophisticated android with an evolving consciousness.

Her journey in the show resembles the struggles of an everyday person, both in terms of personal and societal challenges. The 'everyman' character arc allows for a profound exploration of themes such as identity, consciousness, and the nature of reality, which are at the core of Westworld's narrative.

Unique Twist: Dolores as a Non-Human Everyman

What sets Dolores apart from traditional 'everyman' characters is her status as a non-human being. Her unique blend of machine and human aspects challenges the audience to question preconceived notions of identity and consciousness. It is this twist that elevates her from a typical character to a compelling star of the series.

The introduction of such a character is a testament to the show's innovative storytelling. By making Dolores a non-human character, the creators of Westworld push the boundaries of what is considered an 'everyman' and broaden the horizons of the audience's imagination. This unconventional approach showcases the show's commitment to exploring complex and thought-provoking themes.

Cultural Shift: The Rise of Female Leads

Over the last decade or so, there has been a notable shift in the representation of female characters in media. Gone are the days when stories predominantly featured male protagonists as the lead. In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards featuring strong, compelling female characters as the central narrative figures. This trend is particularly evident in television series and films, making the choice of Dolores to be a major star in a show with such deep themes all the more significant.

The empowerment of female leads in media has not only disrupted traditional gender stereotypes but also brought fresh perspectives and narratives to the forefront. Shows like Westworld have played a crucial role in this cultural shift, demonstrating that well-crafted and compelling stories can thrive when they center around strong female characters. The success of Dolores in Westworld exemplifies this trend, drawing attention to the importance of diverse and powerful female representation in storytelling.

Conclusion and Reflection

Westworld's decision to highlight Dolores Abernathy as a major star of the series not only succeeds in captivating its audience but also reflects a broader cultural shift in media representation. By embracing the 'everyman' character trope and featuring a non-human character, the show pushes boundaries and challenges preconceived notions. Additionally, the rise of female leads in media signifies a significant progress in gender representation, making stories more inclusive and thought-provoking.

The success of Dolores in Westworld serves as a powerful example of how innovative and bold storytelling can captivate audiences and drive cultural change. As media continues to evolve, it is clear that both the narrative techniques employed and the characters represented play crucial roles in shaping the future of storytelling.