Abby Griffin’s death in The 100 is a pivotal moment, marking the end of a character who embodied both strength and vulnerability. She dies in Season 6, Episode 6, titled “Memento Mori.”
A Tragic End for the Grounder Medic
Abigail “Abby” Griffin, portrayed by Paige Turco, was a central figure in The 100, known for her medical expertise, her unwavering dedication to her daughter Clarke, and her complex moral compass. Her journey from a Council member on the Ark to a Grounder medic and ultimately, a host body for a Primes consciousness, was fraught with difficult decisions and devastating losses. “Memento Mori” showcases the culmination of several underlying plot threads, ultimately leading to Abby’s heartbreaking sacrifice.
The episode details the struggles on Sanctum, where the Primes are attempting to solidify their control over the populace. Abby, grappling with her own past actions and the choices she made to survive, is manipulated by Russell Lightbourne (the Prime who uses bodies as hosts) into creating Nightblood serum, a key ingredient for restoring the Primes. Russell, in his relentless pursuit of immortality, views Abby as a tool and exploits her guilt over past events, specifically the deaths and suffering caused by her leadership and drug addiction.
The climax of the episode sees Russell successfully extracting Abby’s marrow to create Nightblood. However, he does not stop there. To fully revive Simone Lightbourne, his wife, he transfers her mind into Abby’s body. This final act is a brutal and tragic culmination of Abby’s story, effectively killing her and permanently ending her contribution to the show. Clarke’s reaction to this loss is arguably one of the most heart-wrenching scenes in the entire series. She witnesses the death of her mother, not on a battlefield or in a natural disaster, but as a result of calculated manipulation and a desperate attempt to achieve immortality.
The episode’s title, “Memento Mori,” meaning “Remember you must die,” serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the ever-present threat of death that looms over the characters in The 100. It underscores the transient nature of existence in their harsh, post-apocalyptic world, where every day is a struggle for survival and every choice carries potentially fatal consequences.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Abby’s Death
This section aims to provide answers to common questions surrounding Abby’s death in The 100, offering a deeper understanding of the circumstances and impact of her demise.
Why did Abby create Nightblood again?
Abby was manipulated by Russell Lightbourne, the Prime who was desperate to revive his wife, Simone. He preyed on Abby’s guilt over her past actions, particularly her role in creating Nightblood previously. He presented it as a way to save the people of Sanctum and to potentially atone for her past mistakes. Russell convinced Abby that she could restore order and save lives by creating the serum, playing on her deep-seated desire to do good.
How did Clarke react to Abby’s death?
Clarke’s reaction to Abby’s death was one of immense grief and rage. She witnessed the transfer of Simone’s mind into Abby’s body, knowing that her mother was effectively gone. This event deeply scarred Clarke, adding another layer of trauma to her already burdened psyche. She subsequently vowed revenge against Russell Lightbourne for his actions.
What were the long-term consequences of Abby’s death?
Abby’s death had significant long-term consequences for Clarke and the other characters. It fueled Clarke’s desire for vengeance, influencing her decisions and actions in subsequent episodes. The loss of Abby’s medical expertise also created a void in the group, forcing others to step up and fill her shoes. Her death served as a catalyst for further conflict and loss of trust within the group.
Could Abby have been saved?
In the context of the show’s narrative, there was likely no way to save Abby once Russell decided to use her as a host body for Simone. The mind drive technology was irreversible at that point. While alternative scenarios could be imagined, within the established rules of the show’s universe, her fate was sealed.
What was the symbolism of Abby’s death scene?
The scene where Simone’s mind is transferred into Abby’s body is highly symbolic. It represents the Primes’ disregard for human life and their relentless pursuit of immortality, even at the expense of others. It also highlights the recurring theme of sacrifice in the show, where characters often make difficult choices and selflessly give their lives for the greater good. However, in this case, Abby’s sacrifice was forced upon her, emphasizing the horror and injustice of the situation.
Did Abby’s death change the trajectory of Season 6?
Yes, Abby’s death significantly changed the trajectory of Season 6. It escalated the conflict between the newcomers and the Primes, pushing the characters towards a full-blown rebellion. It also forced Clarke to confront her grief and make difficult choices about leadership and revenge. The season took on a darker and more desperate tone following her demise.
How did fans react to Abby’s death?
Fans reacted to Abby’s death with a mixture of shock, sadness, and anger. Many were upset by the way her character was written off, feeling that she deserved a more honorable and less brutal end. The death sparked debate online, with some criticizing the show’s writers for sacrificing a beloved character for shock value.
Was Paige Turco’s departure voluntary?
While Paige Turco hasn’t explicitly stated that her departure was forced, the circumstances surrounding Abby’s death suggest it was a creative decision made by the show’s writers. The storyline pointed toward her exit. She had been a main character since the beginning of the show.
How did Abby’s past actions contribute to her fate?
Abby’s past actions, particularly her addiction to pills and her difficult choices as a leader, contributed to her vulnerability to Russell’s manipulation. He used her guilt and desire for redemption against her, ultimately leading to her demise. Her complex moral history made her a target for exploitation.
What was Abby’s biggest flaw?
Abby’s biggest flaw was arguably her unwavering dedication to her daughter Clarke, sometimes to the detriment of others. While her love for Clarke was a defining characteristic, it often clouded her judgment and led her to make questionable decisions that had far-reaching consequences.
How is Abby’s death similar to other deaths in The 100?
Abby’s death shares similarities with other deaths in The 100 in its unexpectedness and tragic circumstances. The show is known for its willingness to kill off main characters, often in brutal and heartbreaking ways. Like many other characters, Abby’s death served as a plot device to further the narrative and explore themes of sacrifice and survival.
What impact does Abby’s death have on Clarke’s future?
Abby’s death has a profound and lasting impact on Clarke’s future. It solidifies her determination to protect her remaining family and friends, often driving her to extreme measures. Clarke carries the burden of her mother’s memory and strives to honor her legacy, constantly grappling with the weight of her past and the responsibility of leadership. Abby’s death profoundly shapes Clarke’s identity and future actions throughout the remaining seasons.