Vince Gilligan’s era-defining series Breaking Bad meticulously explores the complexity of the human mind by delving into the interplay of light and darkness within individuals. Colour is one of the most striking visual elements Gilligan employed to convey the characters’ emotions, development, and thematic undertones. The character of Marie Schrader, portrayed by Betsy Brandt, is defined by her idiosyncrasies, her drive for control, and her unique relationship with the colour purple.
From the beginning of the series, Marie appears to be a complex, ambitious, and somewhat eccentric individual. Her obsession with purple serves as a visual indicator of her individuality and ambition. Her preference for personal items in this hue, ranging from clothing to home decor, displays her distinctive nature and her desire to stand out. However, while purple traditionally symbolizes royalty and power, Marie’s character is far from the image of a traditional queen-like or influential figure. She often feels inadequate and exhibits a desire for control which sometimes leads to impulsive actions like creating false identities and stealing.
Significance of Marie’s Kleptomania and False Identities
Marie’s kleptomania can be interpreted as a microcosm of the broader theme of moral decay that permeates the show’s universe. Her habit of stealing may seem comical at first glance, but it is not merely a random quirk; rather, it manifests her psychological struggles. Marie’s condition worsens when her husband Hank, a DEA agent, becomes heavily injured in a confrontation with two cartel hitmen, Leonel and Marco Salamanca, commonly known as “The Cousins”. Hank’s injury shatters her illusion of control, and she is forced to confront her vulnerability. As Hank grapples with the emotional and physical aftermath of the attack, she is left to navigate her feelings of helplessness and anxiety.
Her attempts to keep her emotions in check are met with a lack of support from her sister and confidant Skyler, who is preoccupied with her own concerns. This lack of emotional support and validation further isolates Marie. In this context, her compulsion to steal can be seen as an attempt to regain a sense of control over her life and surroundings. Stealing and creating false identities serve as a form of escapism from the challenges she faces, both within her relationships and her internal struggles. The alter ego provides her with a way to momentarily distance herself from her responsibilities, worries, and the complexities of her life. This contrast between the symbolism of purple and the realities of Marie’s character adds depth to her portrayal and highlights the intricacy of her personality.
Multifaceted Nature of Marie and Purple
Both Marie’s character and the colour purple are multifaceted. Purple is a mix of blue and red, which are often associated with calmness and passion respectively. Similarly, while one side of Marie’s character is emotional and passionate, the other is calm and collected. Her presence and reassurance plays a crucial role in Hank’s emotional healing process.
As a primary caregiver, she constantly provides emotional support to Hank, who struggles to adjust to the new reality. Hank’s reliance on Marie for physical and emotional support sometimes leads to moments of frustration and even resentment toward her. The reversal of roles challenges his self-perception and independence, leading to internal conflict that inadvertently affects his behavior. Despite the challenges and emotional barriers, Marie’s commitment to Hank’s recovery does not flicker. She remains a constant companion to Hank under all circumstances.
In essence, Vince Gilligan’s choice to use the colour purple in association with Marie Schrader is not just a random choice but a deliberate decision. Marie’s arc involves grappling with personal struggles, and the colour purple serves as a visual thread that traces her character’s evolution and her shifting motivations. As her relationships and circumstances change, the colour’s significance transforms, mirroring her journey.