Hershel Rhee in "The Walking Dead: Dead City"

Hershel Rhee, portrayed by Logan Kim, is a pivotal character in "The Walking Dead: Dead City.” His character development is quite dramatic, having evolved from a troubled and grieving man to a much more complicated one due to his losses, trauma, and interpersonal relationships. This article focuses on the character development of Hershel, the events that turn him into the person he becomes, his interaction with his mother Maggie, and his position in the war against The Dama.

Hershel Rhee is described as a hardworking and smart child as given by his parents, Maggie and Glenn. In “Dead City,” Hershel has gone through a transformation due to the fact that he grew up in a post-apocalyptic world compared to his previous portrayal in “The Walking Dead.”

Kidnapping by The Croat: One of the most crucial arcs of Hershel’s development is his abduction by The Croat, a defector from the Saviors. This traumatic experience makes Hershel grow from a character who is afraid of everything to a man who has to become independent. Even though Hershel is tortured and manipulated throughout the show, he becomes a stronger character in the end, proving to the audience that he is capable of overcoming all the odds.

Relationship with Maggie: Hershel starts to have conflicts with his mother Maggie due to her actions and decisions concerning Negan, the man who killed his father. This tension makes Hershel a more complex character, as he faces conflict between his love for his mother and his need to be independent.

Interactions with Other Survivors: In “Dead City,” Hershel evolves as a character and learns the importance of trust and loyalty. His growing sense of self and shifting view of Negan are notable. Initially hating Negan, Hershel eventually realizes that Negan is not entirely a bad person and is trying to atone for past mistakes.

In the beginning of “Dead City,” Hershel and Maggie do not have a very friendly relationship. Hershel harbors bitter feelings towards his mother for her affection towards Negan, creating a rift between them as Hershel feels Maggie does not care about him.

Kidnapping and Rescue: Hershel’s abduction by The Croat forces Maggie to focus on her son’s safety and reassess her feelings towards Negan. Maggie’s decision to save Hershel also reflects her loyalty and care, even though their relationship is strained.

Reunion and Conflict: When Hershel and Maggie reunite, the tension is palpable. Hershel’s criticism of Maggie’s actions and questioning of her motives mark a new phase of his independence and desire for autonomy. This conflict deepens their characters’ interactions, demonstrating that their relationship encompasses more than just love and friendship, as they face the reality that their lives depend on their actions.

Despite their conflicts, there are scenes that illustrate the enduring bond between Hershel and Maggie. These moments highlight their strong connection. Hershel’s willingness to support Maggie in her plan to kill Negan—despite his personal reservations—demonstrates his love for his mother and his desire to protect his family.

Hershel’s kidnapping by The Croat, an agent of The Dama, is a key event that places him in the midst of the conflict. This traumatic experience helps Hershel develop resilience and endurance, becoming a crucial aspect of his character.

Although Hershel is a prisoner of The Dama, he develops a certain level of respect for her through their interactions. This relationship challenges Hershel’s ethical code and perceptions of power in the post-apocalyptic world.

Hershel’s kidnapping serves as a major motivator for Maggie, pushing her to rescue her son and confront The Dama. This decision highlights Maggie’s deep affection for Hershel and her willingness to go to great lengths for him. It also motivates other characters, such as Negan, who ultimately sacrifices himself to free Hershel.

The kidnapping pushes Hershel to his limits and teaches him resilience. His transformation from a gentle Southern farmer to a hardened prisoner is stark, given the brutal captivity. His ability to withstand torture and manipulation by The Croat and The Dama demonstrates his resilience.

Hershel’s treatment of The Dama reflects his understanding of power and subjugation. Despite viewing The Dama as an adversary, he comes to respect her power and rationality, which adds complexity to his understanding of the world around him.

Hershel Rhee's character evolution in "The Walking Dead: Dead City" is a multifaceted journey of grief, betrayal, family trauma, and self-discovery. Hershel is developed into a strong-willed and self-sufficient protagonist poised to play a significant role in the series. The focus on his evolution, survival struggles, and search for identity in a post-apocalyptic world illustrates the transition from clear-cut morality to a more nuanced perspective.