The End of American Horror Story: Asylum: A Cynical View of Evil and Redemption
Season 2 of American Horror Story: Asylum concludes with a mix of resolution and ambiguity, leaving viewers to ponder the complex themes and character journeys. This article delves into key elements that define the ending, providing insights and reflections on the show's narrative.
The Fate of the Characters
The season's finale presents several character arcs that navigate survival, trauma, and a search for peace. Notable among these is Lana Winters (played by
Sarah Paulson), who emerges from the trauma of Briarcliff as a successful author. However, her victorious narrative is overshadowed by the lingering effects of her experiences. The final scenes show Lana reflecting on her past, suggesting that while she physically escaped, the trauma remains.
Also, Kit Walker (Evan Peters) and Grace (Lizzie Brocheré) find a sense of peace together, having managed to escape Briarcliff. Their happy ending contrasts sharply with the more harrowing fates of other characters, underscoring the different paths of survival and redemption.
The Role of Time
The series skillfully plays with temporal shifts, revealing that the events at Briarcliff took place in the 1960s. However, the final scenes show Lana in the present day, emphasizing the long-lasting impact of trauma and how the past continues to resonate in the present. This temporal jump underscores the show's exploration of the enduring scars left by historical trauma.
Thematic Elements: Survival, Trauma, and Struggle for Agency
The episode unveils central themes such as survival, the struggle against trauma, and the quest for agency. Lana's journey embodies the fight for control over her life and her narrative. Her triumph as a writer, albeit one burdened by a painful past, becomes a poignant commentary on the tenacity of the human spirit. However, it also raises questions about the true cost of such resilience.
Ambiguity and Open Questions
The ending of American Horror Story: Asylum leaves viewers with many open questions. Notably, it leaves ambiguity regarding the nature of evil, suggesting that the real monsters are often human. Characters like Sister Jude (Jessica Lange) and the implications of the experiments at Briarcliff further raise moral questions about the treatment of mental illness and the capacity for redemption.
It is significant to note the special mention of Lana Winters's trajectory. Her initial quest to uncover evil ended up changing her. It is precisely as in her personal journey, she came to the Asylum for investigation, thus seeking evil, and ultimately became cynical and heartless by the end of the series. This was illustrated by her cold and emotionless act of murder. She was abused by evil, as represented by the character Bloody Face.
By the end, the characters and central themes of American Horror Story: Asylum provide a multifaceted commentary on the complex interplay between human nature, historical trauma, and the ongoing struggle for identity and agency in a deeply dark world.