Unraveling Lizzie’s Troubles- The Dark Undercurrents in ‘The Walking Dead’

by liuqiyue

What was wrong with Lizzie in The Walking Dead? This question has been on the minds of many fans since her introduction in the series. Lizzie, portrayed by Kyla Kennedy, is a complex character whose actions and mental state have left viewers baffled and disturbed. This article aims to delve into the reasons behind Lizzie’s troubled behavior and explore the underlying issues that contributed to her downfall in the zombie apocalypse.

Lizzie’s troubled past is a significant factor in her mental state. She was raised by abusive parents, which led to a difficult upbringing and a deep-seated fear of authority. Her father, who was a law enforcement officer, was particularly harsh on her, which made her wary of anyone in a position of power. This fear was further exacerbated when she witnessed her father’s brutal murder at the hands of the Governor, a character who symbolizes the worst aspects of human nature.

As the series progresses, Lizzie’s mental health deteriorates, and her behavior becomes increasingly erratic. She is prone to outbursts of anger and violence, which often leave her friends and allies in danger. Her actions are often driven by a sense of guilt and responsibility for the deaths of her parents and her sister, Judith. Lizzie’s guilt is a heavy burden that she carries, and it manifests in her behavior as a desire to atone for her perceived failures.

One of the key reasons for Lizzie’s instability is her tendency to blame herself for everything that goes wrong. She often feels responsible for the deaths of those around her, which leads to a cycle of self-punishment and self-loathing. This constant self-blame not only affects her mental health but also her ability to make rational decisions. For example, her decision to leave the group and venture into the wilderness to find her sister, Judith, is driven by a desire to protect her and atone for her perceived failures.

Another contributing factor to Lizzie’s problems is her lack of emotional support. Throughout the series, Lizzie struggles to connect with others, which leaves her feeling isolated and alone. Her inability to form meaningful relationships makes it difficult for her to cope with the traumas she has experienced. The few friends she does have, such as Carl and Michonne, are unable to fully understand her pain and offer the support she needs.

Lizzie’s mental health issues are further compounded by her exposure to the horrors of the zombie apocalypse. The constant threat of death and the loss of loved ones have taken a toll on her mental state, pushing her to the brink of madness. Her breakdown in the season 4 finale, when she kills a zombie and then Judith, is a tragic turning point in her life. This act of desperation is a clear indication of the depths of her despair and the extent of her mental instability.

In conclusion, what was wrong with Lizzie in The Walking Dead was a combination of her troubled past, mental health issues, and the harsh realities of the zombie apocalypse. Her actions, while often unsettling and dangerous, were driven by a desire to protect those she loved and to atone for her perceived failures. Lizzie’s character serves as a stark reminder of the psychological toll that survival can take on individuals, and the importance of seeking support and understanding in times of crisis.

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