Mello, the complex and fiercely independent rival to Near in the pursuit of Kira, meets his tragic end in episode 36 of the Death Note anime, titled “1.28.” This episode, airing towards the series’ conclusion, marks a pivotal moment in the story, showcasing the sacrifices made in the ultimate effort to bring Light Yagami to justice.
The Circumstances Surrounding Mello’s Death
Mello’s death isn’t a simple act of violence; it’s a carefully orchestrated, self-sacrificing move that ultimately paves the way for Kira’s downfall. He plays a crucial role in uncovering the truth about Mikami Teru, Kira’s chosen hand, and his routine at the bank.
Unveiling Mikami’s Secret
Mello, driven by his insatiable desire to outdo Near and catch Kira himself, kidnaps Kiyomi Takada, a news anchor and Kira’s spokesperson. He understands that Takada holds key information about Kira’s operations. During the kidnapping, Mello is forced to disable Takada’s bodyguards.
Takada’s Desperate Act
Takada, fiercely loyal to Kira, uses a hidden piece of Death Note paper to kill Mello and his accomplices. This seemingly sets back Mello’s investigation significantly.
The Fatal Flaw Revealed
However, Takada’s act of writing Mello’s name down in the Death Note unwittingly reveals crucial information to Near and his team. They realize that a fake Death Note must have been used previously, and that Mikami is likely using the real one. This discovery is the key to exposing Mikami’s clandestine routine at the bank and ultimately defeating Light.
Mello’s Lasting Impact on the Story
While Mello’s life is cut short, his actions resonate powerfully throughout the remaining episodes. He doesn’t achieve his goal of directly capturing Kira, but his sacrifice is instrumental in Near’s success.
The Collaborative Effort
Mello’s death underscores the idea that no single individual could truly defeat Kira alone. Both Mello and Near possessed unique strengths and weaknesses, and it was only through their combined, albeit often adversarial, efforts that they were able to dismantle Kira’s empire of fear. The fact that Mello’s sacrifice was crucial to Near’s victory demonstrates the unexpected power of collaboration, even between rivals.
A Legacy of Determination
Mello’s unwavering determination and willingness to go to extreme lengths to achieve his goals leave a lasting impression. While his methods were often morally questionable, his dedication to justice, albeit driven by a deep-seated competitive spirit, is undeniable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Mello’s Death
Here are some frequently asked questions that provide further insight into Mello’s character, motivations, and the impact of his death on the Death Note storyline:
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Why did Mello kidnap Takada?
Mello kidnapped Takada because he believed she held vital information about Kira’s identity and methods. He knew she was a key communicator and thought he could extract information from her, effectively shortcutting Near’s investigation and giving him the lead in the hunt for Kira. -
Could Mello have avoided his death?
Potentially, yes. If Mello had taken different precautions during the kidnapping, such as thoroughly searching Takada or restraining her more effectively, he might have survived. However, his aggressive and impatient nature likely contributed to the oversight. -
How did Takada know about the hidden piece of Death Note paper?
Light provided Takada with a small piece of the Death Note paper for self-defense. This was a contingency plan in case she was captured or threatened, ensuring she could eliminate potential threats without needing direct contact with Kira. -
Did Mello know he was sacrificing himself?
It’s unlikely that Mello explicitly intended to sacrifice himself. He likely knew the kidnapping was a risky operation, but his primary focus was on obtaining information from Takada. The revelation of Mikami’s routine was a consequence of his actions, not necessarily the intended outcome. -
What would have happened if Mello had survived?
If Mello had survived, the storyline would have likely taken a drastically different turn. He might have continued to compete with Near, potentially creating further complications in the final confrontation with Light. It’s also possible he could have taken credit for Near’s victory, adding another layer of complexity to their rivalry. -
How did Mello’s actions help Near catch Kira?
Mello’s death, caused by Takada using the Death Note, indirectly led Near to discover Mikami’s secret visits to the bank. This revelation was crucial in identifying Mikami as Kira’s proxy and ultimately exposing Light Yagami. -
Was Mello a good guy or a bad guy?
Mello occupies a morally ambiguous space. While he aimed to bring Kira to justice, his methods were often ruthless and unethical, involving kidnapping, threats, and violence. He can be considered an anti-hero, driven by a desire for justice but willing to cross moral boundaries to achieve it. -
What was the relationship between Mello and Near?
Mello and Near were rivals raised in Wammy’s House, a facility for exceptionally intelligent children. They both saw themselves as successors to L, and their relationship was characterized by intense competition and mutual respect. They pushed each other to be better, even though they rarely worked together directly. -
Why did Mello wear leather and have burn scars?
Mello’s distinctive appearance, with his leather attire and burn scars, reflects his rebellious and edgy personality. The scars were a result of an explosion, further contributing to his hardened exterior. -
Did Light Yagami ever directly interact with Mello?
No, Light Yagami never directly interacted with Mello. All interactions between them were indirect, through intermediaries like Takada and Mikami. -
How did the SPK (Special Provision for Kira) react to Mello’s death?
The SPK, led by Near, recognized the significance of Mello’s actions, even in death. They understood that his sacrifice had provided them with a critical piece of the puzzle, enabling them to move closer to capturing Kira. While they mourned his loss, they also acknowledged his contribution to their mission. -
Could Mello have used the Death Note himself?
While Mello possessed the intellect and cunning to use the Death Note effectively, he also seemed to recognize the inherent dangers and moral compromises associated with its power. Furthermore, Mello’s complex involved outwitting Kira on a intellectual level, not becoming him. He wanted to catch Kira, not become a god.
Conclusion
Mello’s death in episode 36 of Death Note is a watershed moment in the series, demonstrating the immense sacrifices made in the battle against Kira. While his methods were unconventional and often morally questionable, his unwavering determination and ultimately self-sacrificing actions proved crucial to exposing Light Yagami and restoring justice to the world. His legacy as a complex and compelling character continues to resonate with fans of Death Note, solidifying his place as a pivotal figure in the series’ narrative.