‘Severance’ Offers the Ultimate Adaptation of an Overused Trope

The series *Severance* has made a revolutionary shift regarding the portrayal of the dead wife trope, particularly in Season 2, Episode 7 titled “Chikhai Bardo.”This episode not only reveals that Mark’s wife, Gemma, is alive but also explores the complexity of their relationship, offering a fresh perspective that elevates storytelling as a whole.

As a writer, I often find narratives driven by male protagonists mourning dead or abducted women to be rather uninspiring. Forgive me if I don’t desire to throw myself off cliffs just to highlight how the hero’s loved ones are perpetually in peril. It’s almost comical how, in many cases, the hero’s response typically involves shutting themselves off and forgoing emotional connections entirely. Male protagonists really do follow a formula much too often.

In *Severance*, we discover that Mark Scout’s (played by Adam Scott) wife is, in fact, the wellness counselor known as Miss Casey. Initially, I approached the show with skepticism, fearing it might tread familiar ground. However, *Severance* has managed to reverse this overused trope, transforming it into an episode that I will hold in high regard. Within a mere hour, Gemma evolves from being a mere plot device into a fully realized character. It’s a lesson for filmmakers seeking to portray male heroes motivated by dead or missing women: if you’re going to engage in this trope, at least ensure the female characters are depicted with depth and nuance.

Gemma: A Character with Depth and Autonomy

While we still lack specifics on Gemma’s last name—be it Scout, Casey-Scout, or something else entirely—the insights we gain about her are significant. She teaches Russian literature and showcases her fluency in the language, exploring works not limited to just *Anna Karenina* or *War & Peace*.Her gift-giving philosophy illustrates that thoughtful gestures matter more than just grand designs (Mark, take note: plant farms, not ant farms!).Gemma also engages in hobbies like puzzles, which indicates her depth and intellectual curiosity.

Unlike typical depictions, “Chikhai Bardo”presents Gemma’s experiences vividly. We’re not merely fed her story through narration; we witness her feelings, ambitions, and frustrations. This adheres to the adage of “show, don’t tell.”Instead of just reliving Mark’s fond memories, we gain insight into her emotions and circumstances, making her character relatable and genuine.

Even though she finds herself trapped, Gemma is not merely a passive figure awaiting rescue. While she may lack the rebellious spirit of Helly R., she’s also not as complacent as Dylan’s Innie or Irving’s earlier version. Living in a stark, sterile apartment filled with inflatable food and a solitary bookshelf, she expresses her yearning to return to a normal life and seeks genuine conversations. By the episode’s conclusion, it becomes clear that she has made multiple attempts to escape, with her past rebellious actions hinted at when Drummond alludes to her previous altercation with Dr. Mauer.

Gemma: Flawed Yet Determined

Another compelling aspect of Gemma’s storyline is her complexity within the context of the dead or missing wife trope. We’re left uncertain if Gemma was abducted or if she willingly entered Lumon, perhaps not fully understanding the ramifications. Should this be the case, she holds a degree of accountability akin to those who agree to the severance procedure. An intelligent individual, she likely comprehends that subjecting an Innie to grueling tasks manifests as a form of torment. Despite her imperfections, Gemma remains determined to reclaim her freedom.

Initially, I was engrossed in Mark S.’s mission to reunite with his wife. However, my focus has now shifted to Gemma, who I empathize with on a profound level. In a narrative landscape that often objects to portrayals of deceased or missing women as mere afterthoughts, it’s refreshing to witness *Severance* invest genuine effort in her character development. To put it plainly: *Severance* honors the reality that Mark’s wife, Gemma, is a multifaceted person whose worth does not solely rely on her relationship with a male character. Kudos to Kier for crafting such a transformative narrative!

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