Killian Jones, the dashing Captain Hook, embarks on a perilous journey back from the Underworld and is ultimately resurrected in Season 5, Episode 11, titled “Swan Song.” This episode serves as a pivotal point in Once Upon a Time, marking not only Hook’s return but also a significant shift in the show’s overarching narrative.
The Resurrection of Captain Hook: A Deep Dive
Hook’s death and subsequent journey through the Underworld create a compelling storyline focused on redemption and true love. Understanding the events leading up to his resurrection, the circumstances surrounding it, and its impact on the series is crucial for grasping the character’s arc.
The Grim Reaper’s Embrace
Before his return, Hook tragically dies after being turned into a Dark One by Rumplestiltskin. He sacrifices himself to prevent the darkness from spreading, a noble act that defines his character’s evolution from a vengeful pirate to a selfless hero. His descent into the Underworld marks the beginning of his arduous journey back to Emma Swan.
Navigating the Underworld
The Underworld presents a challenging landscape for Hook, filled with unfinished business and familiar faces seeking closure. He encounters his deceased father and grapples with the consequences of his past actions. Emma, along with her family, ventures into the Underworld to retrieve him, facing numerous obstacles and moral dilemmas along the way.
True Love’s Triumph
Ultimately, Hook’s resurrection is facilitated by the power of true love and the unwavering belief of Emma. With the help of Zeus, who bestows a mystical ambrosia, Hook is brought back to life, signaling a victory over death and a reaffirmation of the show’s central themes of hope and second chances. His resurrection is not merely a plot device; it represents the culmination of his character’s journey and the strength of his bond with Emma.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Killian’s Return
These FAQs address common questions and provide detailed insights into the events surrounding Killian’s resurrection in Once Upon a Time.
1. Why did Hook die in the first place?
Hook died because he had been turned into a Dark One by Rumplestiltskin. In an attempt to protect Emma and the town of Storybrooke from the darkness, he sacrificed himself, pulling the darkness into himself and requesting Emma to use the Dark One’s dagger to kill him and extinguish the darkness permanently.
2. What is the significance of the Underworld in Hook’s story?
The Underworld serves as a purgatory-like realm where souls with unfinished business remain. For Hook, it’s a place to confront his past sins and seek redemption. He faces his father, confronts his guilt, and ultimately proves worthy of being brought back to life. The Underworld journey provides significant character development for him.
3. How did Emma and the others travel to the Underworld?
Emma and her family used the Ogre’s portal tree to travel to the Underworld. This portal, accessible through magical means, allowed them to journey to this specific realm to rescue Hook. They faced challenges and dangers specific to the Underworld, including restless souls and deceptive obstacles.
4. What role did Hades play in preventing Hook’s return?
Hades, the ruler of the Underworld, actively sought to prevent Hook’s escape and Emma’s success. He manipulated situations, created obstacles, and tempted characters with deals to maintain his power and control over the Underworld. His actions added significant conflict and tension to the narrative. He offered Emma a deal: for her to save Hook, someone else had to be trapped in the Underworld forever.
5. What exactly is ambrosia and why is it important?
Ambrosia, in Once Upon a Time, is a mystical food of the gods that possesses the power to revive the dead. It’s a vital element in Hook’s resurrection. It is provided by Zeus and given to Emma to be used on Hook, restoring him to life. It represents divine intervention and the ultimate reward for their perseverance and love.
6. Was Hook permanently resurrected, or did something change later?
Yes, Hook was permanently resurrected at that point in the story. The magic used, combined with the power of true love, secured his return. While he faces future challenges and storylines, his return from the Underworld in Season 5 is permanent.
7. What were the immediate consequences of Hook’s resurrection on his relationship with Emma?
Hook’s resurrection strengthened his bond with Emma significantly. It reaffirmed their love and commitment to each other. However, the experiences in the Underworld and the difficult choices they made also left lingering emotional scars that they had to navigate in the following episodes.
8. How did Hook’s resurrection affect his relationships with other characters like David (Prince Charming) and Regina (Evil Queen)?
Hook’s resurrection generally strengthened his bonds with other characters. David was relieved to have him back, and Regina, having faced her own demons in the Underworld, held a newfound respect for Hook’s determination and sacrifice.
9. Were there any alternative methods considered to bring Hook back to life?
While the primary method involved the Underworld journey and ambrosia, the characters explored other magical options along the way. Rumors of powerful spells and artifacts circulated, but ultimately, the ambrosia offered by Zeus proved to be the most viable solution. There were several quests that the characters had to complete.
10. What long-term impact did Hook’s resurrection have on the overall storyline of Once Upon a Time?
Hook’s resurrection solidified his role as a main character and a vital member of the Storybrooke family. It allowed for further exploration of his character’s complexities, his relationship with Emma, and his involvement in future adventures. His past still haunts him after his return, but his actions demonstrate he is committed to being a hero.
11. Is there a symbolic meaning behind Hook’s return from the Underworld?
Yes, Hook’s return symbolizes redemption, the power of true love, and the triumph of good over evil. It reinforces the show’s message that even those with a dark past can find redemption and a chance at happiness. It also underscores the idea that love can conquer even death itself.
12. What is the best way to re-watch the episode where Hook comes back to life?
The best way to re-watch “Swan Song” (Season 5, Episode 11) is through official streaming services like Disney+ or purchasing the episode or season on platforms like Amazon Prime Video or iTunes. These platforms provide the highest quality viewing experience and ensure you’re supporting the creators of the show. Don’t forget to watch the episodes leading up to “Swan Song,” as they provide important context.
The Legacy of a Resurrected Pirate
Killian Jones’s resurrection in “Swan Song” remains a defining moment in Once Upon a Time. It serves as a testament to the power of love, redemption, and the enduring appeal of a complex and beloved character. His journey back from the Underworld is not just a plot point; it is a fundamental element of the show’s overarching narrative and a crucial aspect of his character arc. It changed Emma’s life for the better, and showed viewers that heroes can come in unexpected forms.