Ranking the 10 Most Courageous Characters in The Last of Us TV Series

Exploring the Essence of Courage in The Last of Us

Courage serves as a crucial element in confronting challenges and safeguarding loved ones in *The Last of Us*.
Characters such as Riley, Sam, and Frank embody bravery through their sacrifices and difficult decisions.
The narrative emphasizes that true courage transcends combat; it revolves around making moral choices.

*The Last of Us* embarks on a harrowing exploration of survival in a devastated world, where the theme of courage emerges prominently. Throughout the series, characters grapple with dire situations, where bravery is vital for overcoming obstacles and defending those they hold dear.

Courage manifests not merely in grand acts of heroism but also in the everyday struggle to rise above fear, anguish, and hopelessness. In a world where the very notion of hope is often eclipsed, taking steps forward becomes an act of audacity. Often silent and spontaneous, acts of bravery reveal that true courage is not the absence of fear but rather the determination to confront it.

Riley Abel: The Bold Defender

Riley, a steadfast friend and burgeoning love interest of Ellie, joins the Fireflies, a decision that carries immense risk for someone her age. The possibility of military capture looms large, often resulting in severe consequences like imprisonment or death. Riley exemplifies that her principles take precedence over personal safety, fighting for a larger purpose.

One pivotal moment illustrates her courage, as she chooses to leave the Fireflies to reconnect with Ellie. This brave choice ultimately leads to her tragic demise and Ellie’s infection. Confronted by an infected in an abandoned mall, Riley selflessly protects Ellie, knowing full well the cost of her bravery.

Sam: A Brother’s Keeper

Facing Death with Maturity to Shield His Sibling

In one of the series’ most heart-wrenching scenes, Sam stands out as a sweet, vulnerable child determined to survive alongside his older brother, Henry. While navigating the treachery of a world plagued by infected and hostile humans, Sam displays fortitude, confiding in Ellie about his fears.

During a terrifying encounter with a swarm of infected in episode five, Sam remains unexpectedly composed, demonstrating his learned survival tactics. After becoming infected himself, he masks his horror from Henry, culminating in a deeply tragic moment where he spares his brother further heartache.

Frank: Seeing Humanity Amid Chaos

Choosing Humanity in a World Overrun by Cordyceps

Frank plays a vital role in Bill’s character development, showcasing a different dimension of bravery through his desire for companionship, kindness, and love, even amid chaos. His courage manifests in the quest for a meaningful existence, as he reaches out to others, risking exposure to both infected and hostile people.

Frank understands the fragility of life and seeks to create meaningful memories, especially as he faces a terminal illness. While Bill struggles with acceptance, Frank chooses to plan a peaceful conclusion to his life, preserving their love in a deeply poignant episode.

Henry: The Cost of Protection

Making Difficult Choices for Family

Motivated by the instinct to protect his younger brother, Henry establishes himself as one of the most courageous figures in *The Last of Us*.His bravery extends beyond physical confrontation, as it is rooted in emotional resilience and commitment to family.

Henry’s desperation leads him to make morally challenging decisions, such as revealing information to Kathleen, the leader of the Kansas City resistance, to secure medication for Sam. He grapples with the consequences of his actions, culminating in an agonizing choice when he must ultimately shoot Sam, who has become infected. Henry’s tragic conclusion, choosing to take his own life, marks one of the series’ most heartbreaking moments.

Bill: The Unwavering Survivor

Ensuring Survival in a Hostile Landscape

Bill, a reclusive survivor, grapples with trust issues while living in an abandoned fortified town. His bravery is intricately woven into his character, showcasing his determination and resilience. Alone, he creates a bastion against the numerous threats posed by both the infected and other survivors.

However, Bill’s most significant act of courage materializes in accepting Frank’s fate. He chooses to remain by Frank’s side, consciously relinquishing his own chance at survival for the sake of love, illustrating a profound understanding of what truly matters.

Marlene: Sacrifice for the Greater Good

A Willingness to Sacrifice for Humanity

Marlene leads the Fireflies, a resistance group opposing FEDRA’s oppressive regime in a quest for a cure. She emerges as a fiercely determined character, readily making harrowing choices for the sake of humanity. Notably, she is forced to end Ellie’s mother, Anna’s life to protect the child, illustrating her complex moral compass.

Her willingness to potentially sacrifice Ellie to develop a cure underscores her resolve. This contentious decision echoes throughout the series, culminating in a confrontation with Joel, where her life ultimately meets a tragic end.

Tommy Miller: Beyond Survival

Courage Beyond Combat

As Joel’s younger brother, Tommy experiences the outbreak’s chaos first-hand, displaying immediate courage as he tries to protect Joel and Sarah. He takes initiative during a tense escape, showcasing quick thinking and resolve in a life-threatening situation.

Later, he aligns himself with a militia, reflecting a desire to contribute to a cause greater than mere survival. When he reunites with Joel in Jackson, Tommy challenges Joel’s withdrawal from violence, emphasizing his commitment to building a peaceful future while still being prepared to confront threats alongside Ellie and Joel.

Theresa “Tess”Servopoulos: A Pillar of Strength

A Defiant Force in The Last of Us

Tess embodies bravery within the treacherous black market of *The Last of Us*.Following a failed trade with Robert, she maintains her composure and seeks retribution. As circumstances evolve and Ellie joins their quest, Tess and Joel confront a wave of infected, showcasing their resilience.

In her final moments, Tess safeguards Joel and Ellie, urging Joel to move forward despite her impending infection. As a crucial figure in the series, Tess meets her fate with courage, understanding that her actions are ultimately for the greater good.

Ellie Williams: Courageous and Compassionate

Unwavering in the Face of Adversity

Ellie’s bravery is intricately linked to her survival instincts and innate compassion. Confronting an infected for the first time, she channels her courage by countering with a mere knife. This encounter reveals her capacity to confront lethal threats in a harsh, unforgiving world.

Later, as they face dire circumstances following Joel’s severe injuries, Ellie steps up to care for him. Instead of retreating, she boldly ventures into dangerous terrain to source medical supplies while navigating a world filled with hostility. Ellie’s unwavering loyalty and determination establish her as a formidable force within the narrative.

Joel Miller: Courage Redefined

The Quintessential Hero in The Last of Us

As a principal character in both the games and the HBO adaptation, Joel endures numerous trials where the essence of courage is paramount. Stricken by the haunting loss of his daughter, Sarah, he develops a hardened exterior while remaining fiercely devoted to those he loves in a shattered landscape.

Though initially hesitant to mentor Ellie, Joel’s protective instincts kick in, especially during life-threatening scenarios. His drastic choice to slaughter the Fireflies, thus preventing Ellie’s likely fatal surgery, encapsulates a decisive moment in the series—prioritizing his emotional redemption over the promise of a cure for the cordyceps infection.

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