Elena Gilbert bravely pulls the dagger from Elijah Mikaelson in The Vampire Diaries Season 2, Episode 19, “Klaus.” This pivotal moment unleashes a powerful force and irrevocably alters the course of the series, setting the stage for a complex and compelling struggle against the Original vampire family.
The Unveiling: Episode 2×19 – “Klaus”
The decision to remove the dagger from Elijah is fraught with peril and strategic calculation. At this point in the series, Elena and her allies – Stefan and Damon Salvatore, Bonnie Bennett, and Jeremy Gilbert – are desperate to stop Klaus Mikaelson from breaking the curse and unleashing his werewolf side. Their understanding of the Originals is limited, and Elijah, while seemingly more honorable than Klaus, represents an unknown quantity.
The episode sees the culmination of several plot threads. Katherine Pierce, ever the manipulator, has played all sides to protect herself. The Salvatores are grappling with their own inner demons while trying to protect Elena. And Bonnie, burdened with immense magical power, is pushed to her limits. The tension is palpable as Elena, armed with a precarious truce with Elijah and a desperate hope, removes the dagger. Her reasoning is simple yet profound: she believes that Elijah, despite his ancient and powerful nature, can be reasoned with and might be willing to help stop his ruthless brother.
This act of faith is a defining moment for Elena, showcasing her growing maturity and willingness to take risks, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds. It is a gamble that could either save them all or condemn them to an even more horrifying fate.
Frequently Asked Questions About Elijah’s Dagger and its Removal
Here are some commonly asked questions that provide further insight into this crucial event and its ramifications:
What is the significance of the dagger used to put Elijah in a coffin?
The dagger, typically made of white oak, is specifically designed to incapacitate an Original vampire. Dipped in the ashes of a white oak tree that has been burned, the dagger induces a state of suspended animation, rendering the Original powerless until it is removed. The coffin serves as a vessel to hold the daggered Original, keeping them neutralized until needed (or, as is often the case, to be used as leverage).
Why did Elena trust Elijah enough to remove the dagger?
Elena’s decision stemmed from several factors. First, Elijah had demonstrated a semblance of honor and a willingness to listen, unlike Klaus. Second, she believed that the situation was desperate enough to warrant the risk. Lastly, Elijah offered a promise – a deal – to help them stop Klaus if she released him. This calculated gamble reflected Elena’s growing resourcefulness and willingness to make difficult choices.
What were the immediate consequences of removing the dagger?
Immediately after the dagger is removed, Elijah awakens, filled with rage and a thirst for revenge against Klaus for imprisoning him. However, he maintains a level of composure, adhering to his agreement with Elena (initially). The removal of the dagger shifts the power dynamics, making Elijah a key player in the unfolding drama.
How did Klaus react to Elijah’s reawakening?
Klaus, initially surprised and angered by Elijah’s return, attempts to manipulate him, playing on their familial bond. However, Klaus quickly realizes that Elijah’s resentment and desire for vengeance are powerful forces. This confrontation marks a significant turning point in their relationship, highlighting the complex and often volatile dynamic between the Original siblings.
Did Elena regret removing the dagger from Elijah?
Elena’s feelings were complicated. While she initially believed it was the right decision, the fallout and the unforeseen consequences of Elijah’s actions often made her question her judgment. The alliance with Elijah proved to be both beneficial and dangerous, leading to moral dilemmas and further complications for Elena and her friends. She sometimes grappled with the weight of her choices and the responsibility for the consequences.
What was Elijah’s ultimate goal after being released?
Elijah’s primary goal was to avenge himself against Klaus for his repeated betrayals and imprisonments. He sought to ensure Klaus paid for his actions and to hold him accountable for the pain he had inflicted on their family. This pursuit of vengeance drove much of his actions in the subsequent seasons.
How did Elijah’s presence impact the Salvatore brothers?
Elijah’s presence added another layer of complexity to the already fraught relationship between Stefan and Damon. Both brothers had their own perspectives and strategies for dealing with the Originals, and their differing approaches often led to conflict. Elijah’s unpredictable nature and shifting alliances further complicated matters, forcing the Salvatores to navigate treacherous waters.
Did the other Originals know about Elijah being daggered?
Yes, other Originals, particularly Rebekah and Kol, were aware of Elijah’s repeated daggering at the hands of Klaus. This knowledge fueled their own resentment towards Klaus and contributed to the fractured family dynamic that characterized the Originals throughout the series. The constant betrayals and power struggles within the family were a recurring theme.
Was the dagger Elena used the only one that could harm an Original?
No. As the series progresses, other methods of harming or killing Originals are revealed. However, the white oak dagger remains a readily available and effective means of temporarily incapacitating them, making it a crucial weapon in the fight against the Originals. The hunt for white oak and methods to exploit its properties becomes a recurring subplot.
What ultimately happened to the dagger that Elena used on Elijah?
The specific dagger used to initially incapacitate Elijah goes through several hands and ultimately its fate is less significant than the broader understanding of white oak’s vulnerability against the Originals. Different daggers and versions of the white oak weapon become more prominent throughout the series.
How does this event contribute to Elena’s character development?
The act of removing the dagger is a pivotal moment in Elena’s evolution. It demonstrates her growing courage, strategic thinking, and willingness to take risks for the greater good. It also highlights her capacity for empathy and her belief in the possibility of redemption, even in the most unlikely of individuals. The experience shapes her understanding of the complexities of the supernatural world and her role in protecting the people she cares about.
What broader themes does this episode explore?
Episode 2×19, and Elena’s choice within it, explores themes of trust, betrayal, family, and the complexities of morality. It questions the notion of good versus evil and highlights the blurred lines that often exist in the supernatural world. It also delves into the power of choice and the consequences that follow, both intended and unintended. The episode masterfully crafts a narrative that forces viewers to grapple with difficult questions and challenge their own assumptions.