The Character of Matthew Alan in 13 Reasons Why

Introduction

13 Reasons Why is a popular American television series based on Jay Asher’s novel of the same name. The series delves into the complex lives of high school students and the tragic events that unfold around them. One of the most intriguing characters in the series is Matthew Alan, portrayed by Ross Butler. This article aims to analyze the character of Matthew Alan, his role in the series, and the impact he has on the other characters and the storyline.

Character Analysis

Background and Personality

Matthew Alan is a seemingly perfect high school student who is popular, handsome, and has a seemingly perfect life. He is the quarterback of the football team and is well-liked by his peers. However, beneath his charming exterior, Matthew struggles with his own demons. He is insecure, self-loathing, and has a deep-seated need for validation from others.

Relationships with Other Characters

Matthew’s relationships with other characters in the series are complex and multifaceted. He is friends with Hannah Baker, the protagonist of the series, and is initially unaware of her struggles. However, as the series progresses, it becomes evident that Matthew has played a significant role in Hannah’s downward spiral.

One of the most notable relationships is between Matthew and Alex, another character in the series. Alex is a talented musician and a friend of Hannah’s. Matthew and Alex’s friendship is strained due to their differing personalities and values. However, as the series progresses, it becomes clear that Matthew is envious of Alex’s success and popularity, which leads to a series of events that have tragic consequences.

The Role of Matthew Alan in the Series

Matthew Alan’s role in the series is crucial. He is a catalyst for the events that lead to Hannah’s death and the subsequent investigation. His actions and inactions contribute to the unraveling of the series’ central mystery. Matthew’s character also serves as a representation of the pressures and expectations that high school students face, as well as the consequences of their actions.

Impact on Other Characters

Matthew Alan’s presence and actions have a significant impact on the other characters in the series. His friendship with Hannah Baker is one of the most poignant relationships in the series. Matthew’s inability to recognize Hannah’s struggles and his subsequent actions contribute to her despair and eventual death.

His relationship with Alex is also crucial. The tension between the two friends leads to a series of events that have tragic consequences for both of them. The series highlights the importance of friendship and the impact that our actions can have on others.

Themes and Symbolism

The character of Matthew Alan serves as a representation of several themes and symbols in the series. He embodies the idea of the perfect high school student, who is hiding a dark secret. His character also serves as a symbol of the consequences of one’s actions and the ripple effect that those actions can have on others.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the character of Matthew Alan in 13 Reasons Why is a complex and intriguing figure. His role in the series is crucial, as he is a catalyst for the events that unfold. His relationships with other characters and his struggle with his own demons make him a compelling character to analyze. The series highlights the importance of recognizing the struggles of others and the consequences of our actions. Matthew Alan’s character serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities of human nature and the impact that our actions can have on others.

Future Research

Future research could explore the impact of social media on high school students, as well as the psychological effects of cyberbullying. Additionally, further research could delve into the portrayal of mental health issues in popular media and the impact of these portrayals on viewers.