Sarah Lance, portrayed by Caity Lotz, makes her initial return from the dead in Arrow season 3, episode 19, titled “Broken Arrow.” However, this resurrection is temporary and she later appears in a more permanent capacity after the events of season 4.
The First Return: “Broken Arrow”
Sarah’s first return is a jarring and emotional one. Though dead for approximately two years after being killed by a brainwashed Thea Queen (under the influence of Malcolm Merlyn), she is resurrected by Thea after Malcolm urges her to use the Lazarus Pit to save her daughter. This decision, however, comes with significant consequences. The Lazarus Pit, while restoring life, also fundamentally alters the individual.
The Effects of the Lazarus Pit
The Lazarus Pit’s restorative properties are intertwined with a price. Those resurrected through it often experience:
- Bloodlust and Aggression: The Pit induces a primal rage, making it difficult for the resurrected individual to control their emotions and actions.
- Memory Fragmentation: Recollections can become blurred, leading to confusion and difficulty discerning reality from fragmented memories.
- Personality Shifts: The essence of the individual remains, but aspects of their personality become amplified, often leaning towards violence and unpredictability.
This early return of Sarah showcases the harrowing effects of the Pit, highlighting the ethical dilemmas associated with its use. She’s not truly “herself,” haunted by the Pit’s influence and struggling to reconcile her old life with her new, tainted existence. This storyline sets the stage for her eventual journey to the Legends of Tomorrow and her transformation into the White Canary.
The Permanent Resurrection and Legends of Tomorrow
While “Broken Arrow” marks Sarah’s first re-emergence, it’s not the end of her story. Realizing the danger she poses and the internal struggle she faces, Sarah ultimately leaves Starling City. She later undergoes further treatment and training under Nyssa al Ghul to combat the Lazarus Pit’s effects.
Her real future, and the more sustained version of her character, lies within the Arrowverse spin-off, Legends of Tomorrow. The show follows a team of time-traveling heroes, including Sarah Lance (as the White Canary), as they fight to protect the timeline. It’s here where Sarah truly thrives and develops, overcoming the challenges of her resurrection and establishing herself as a formidable leader.
Sarah’s Significance to the Arrowverse
Sarah Lance’s character arc is a pivotal one in the Arrowverse. It explores themes of:
- Redemption and Second Chances: Despite her past mistakes and the dark influence of the Lazarus Pit, Sarah strives to be a hero.
- Consequences of Power: The use of powerful tools like the Lazarus Pit comes with significant and often unforeseen consequences.
- The Definition of Humanity: Sarah’s struggle to retain her humanity after being resurrected challenges viewers to consider what truly defines a person.
Her journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of choice, even in the face of overwhelming adversity. Her transition from the Canary in Arrow to the White Canary and leader of the Legends demonstrates growth and the potential for change, making her one of the most compelling and well-developed characters in the entire Arrowverse.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions to provide a deeper understanding of Sarah Lance’s return and its implications:
What exactly is the Lazarus Pit?
The Lazarus Pit is a mystical pool of rejuvenating liquid located in Nanda Parbat, a hidden city in the Himalayas. It possesses the ability to restore life to the dead, but at a cost. The liquid has been used for centuries by the League of Assassins, primarily by Ra’s al Ghul, to extend life and resurrect fallen members. It’s a dangerous and unpredictable source of power.
What are the long-term effects of using the Lazarus Pit?
As mentioned previously, the long-term effects are significant. Bloodlust, memory loss, personality changes, and difficulty controlling rage are common side effects. The resurrected individual often struggles to maintain their sanity and can become a threat to themselves and others. The severity of these effects can vary depending on the individual and the number of times they’ve been subjected to the Pit.
Why did Thea use the Lazarus Pit to bring Sarah back?
Malcolm Merlyn manipulated Thea into using the Lazarus Pit on Sarah. Malcolm’s primary motive was to gain leverage over Oliver Queen. By resurrecting Sarah, he created a chaotic situation that would distract Oliver and give him an advantage in his plans. Thea believed she was doing the right thing to save someone, unaware of the severe consequences that would follow.
How does Nyssa al Ghul help Sarah control the effects of the Lazarus Pit?
Nyssa al Ghul, a skilled warrior and former member of the League of Assassins, possesses extensive knowledge of the Lazarus Pit and its effects. She trains Sarah in techniques to control her rage and focus her mind. Her training helps Sarah regain a semblance of control over her actions and mitigate the negative impacts of the Pit. Nyssa also provides Sarah with a modified version of the League’s fighting style, specifically designed to channel her aggression into a controlled and effective combat technique.
Is Sarah completely cured of the Lazarus Pit’s influence?
While Nyssa’s training helps Sarah manage the symptoms, it’s unlikely she’s ever completely cured. The Lazarus Pit leaves a lasting mark on the individual. Even with extensive training, Sarah still faces occasional struggles with her inner demons and the lingering effects of the Pit’s influence. This internal conflict often shapes her decisions and actions throughout Legends of Tomorrow.
What is the significance of Sarah becoming the White Canary?
The White Canary represents Sarah’s evolution from a troubled vigilante to a capable leader and a force for good. The White Canary persona symbolizes her ability to overcome her past and embrace a brighter future. It’s a symbol of hope and resilience, demonstrating that even those who have been through immense trauma can find purpose and redemption.
Does Sarah’s resurrection impact her relationship with Oliver?
Yes, Sarah’s resurrection significantly impacts her relationship with Oliver. Her return is a reminder of the past they shared and the secrets they kept from each other. It also adds another layer of complexity to their already strained relationship. Oliver struggles to reconcile the Sarah he once knew with the changed version brought back by the Lazarus Pit.
How did her death originally happen?
Sarah was killed by Thea Queen (under the influence of mind control) while in Starling City. Thea was manipulated by Malcolm Merlyn into killing Sarah as part of a larger scheme to gain power and control. This was a turning point in the series and a major catalyst for the events that followed.
How many times has Sarah Lance died in the Arrowverse?
Technically, Sarah Lance has died multiple times across the Arrowverse due to time travel shenanigans and alternate timelines. However, the two most significant deaths are her original death that triggered her Lazarus Pit resurrection and a temporary death during a Crisis event, which was later undone during the Crisis on Infinite Earths crossover.
How does Sarah’s experience with death affect her leadership in Legends of Tomorrow?
Sarah’s experience with death gives her a unique perspective on life and the importance of protecting it. She understands the fragility of existence and the consequences of choices, making her a more compassionate and effective leader. Her understanding of loss and the will to fight for a better future resonate with her team, inspiring them to make difficult decisions and face seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Does anyone else from Team Arrow know about Sarah’s return?
Yes, Oliver, Laurel, and Quentin Lance all learn about Sarah’s return after she is resurrected in the Lazarus Pit. The knowledge impacts each of them differently. Oliver struggles to reconcile his feelings, Laurel feels a mixture of joy and sadness, and Quentin grapples with the moral implications of her resurrection.
Is Caity Lotz the only actress to play Sarah Lance?
Yes, Caity Lotz has consistently portrayed Sarah Lance throughout her appearances in Arrow, The Flash, and Legends of Tomorrow. Her consistent performance has been a key factor in the character’s popularity and success.