Serena van der Woodsen and Ben Donovan’s relationship, a controversial pairing marked by power imbalances and legal ramifications, finally implodes in Gossip Girl Season 4, Episode 7, “War of the Roses.” This episode serves as the climax of their fraught connection, revealing the deep-seated insecurities and irreconcilable differences that ultimately tear them apart.
The Downfall: “War of the Roses” Explained
“War of the Roses” sees the simmering tensions between Serena and Ben boil over amidst the backdrop of Blair’s relentless machinations. Ben, fresh out of prison due to Lily’s fabricated testimony, struggles to adjust to life on the Upper East Side and escapes the shadow of his past as Serena’s teacher. Serena, burdened by guilt and a growing unease about the power dynamics at play, finds herself increasingly conflicted about the relationship.
The episode hinges on Blair’s orchestrated events, designed to expose the alleged inappropriate nature of Serena and Ben’s connection. These machinations reach a fever pitch at a lavish party, culminating in a confrontation where Ben’s temper flares, and Serena realizes the extent of his emotional baggage and her own inability to truly understand his struggles. The breakup, while not physically violent, is emotionally charged, leaving both characters grappling with the wreckage of their ill-fated romance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Serena and Ben’s Relationship
Here are some frequently asked questions designed to provide a more nuanced understanding of Serena and Ben’s relationship and its ultimate demise:
H3: Why was Serena and Ben’s relationship so controversial?
The controversy stemmed primarily from the inherent power imbalance and the circumstances surrounding their initial connection. Ben was Serena’s teacher when she was underage, and although their romantic entanglement occurred after she graduated, the foundation of their relationship was built upon a potentially exploitative dynamic. Further complicating matters was Lily van der Woodsen’s actions, framing Ben and sending him to prison, creating a narrative of illicit behavior that plagued their attempts at a legitimate relationship.
H3: What led to Ben being sent to prison?
Lily van der Woodsen, desperate to protect Serena from what she perceived as a dangerous relationship, falsely accused Ben of having an inappropriate relationship with Serena while she was still a student. This accusation, substantiated by fabricated evidence, resulted in Ben’s wrongful imprisonment.
H3: How did Serena initially react to Ben’s imprisonment?
Serena initially struggled with the reality of Ben’s situation. She felt guilt-ridden and conflicted, unsure of how to navigate the complexities of the legal proceedings and her own emotions. While she initially believed in Ben’s innocence, Lily’s manipulation and the weight of public opinion caused her to question the true nature of their connection.
H3: What were the key challenges Serena and Ben faced after his release?
Upon Ben’s release, they faced numerous hurdles. The stigma of his past, Lily’s continued disapproval, and the constant scrutiny from Gossip Girl created an environment of distrust and suspicion. Ben struggled to find employment and rebuild his life, while Serena grappled with her own sense of responsibility and the weight of their unconventional relationship.
H3: What role did Blair Waldorf play in their breakup?
Blair, ever the schemer, actively worked to undermine Serena and Ben’s relationship. She viewed their connection as morally questionable and exploited their vulnerabilities to drive them apart. Her manipulations, particularly during the party in “War of the Roses,” were instrumental in exposing the underlying tensions and insecurities that ultimately led to their breakup.
H3: Did Serena truly love Ben?
The question of whether Serena truly loved Ben is complex. While she was drawn to his perceived authenticity and outsider status, their relationship was arguably more about Serena rebelling against her privileged upbringing and seeking validation outside her usual social circles. Her actions often prioritized her own needs and desires, suggesting that her affection for Ben was, at least in part, motivated by self-discovery and a desire to prove her independence.
H3: Did Ben genuinely love Serena?
Ben’s feelings for Serena were likely more intense and genuine, fueled by a sense of gratitude and a belief that she saw him for who he truly was. However, his love was also tinged with resentment towards the Upper East Side and its inhabitants, potentially creating a volatile dynamic. His inability to fully escape his past ultimately poisoned his chances of a healthy relationship with Serena.
H3: What were the long-term consequences of Serena and Ben’s relationship?
The relationship left lasting scars on both characters. Serena became more aware of the power dynamics at play in her relationships and developed a greater sense of self-awareness. Ben, on the other hand, struggled to overcome the stigma of his past and ultimately chose a different path, seeking solace away from the Upper East Side. It also further strained the already tense relationship between Serena and Lily.
H3: Could Serena and Ben have made their relationship work under different circumstances?
It’s unlikely. Even without the legal and social obstacles, the age gap, power imbalance, and fundamental differences in their backgrounds created a challenging foundation. The absence of Lily’s interference might have prolonged the relationship, but the underlying issues would have likely resurfaced eventually.
H3: What did Ben do after breaking up with Serena?
After breaking up with Serena, Ben leaves the Upper East Side and attempts to rebuild his life elsewhere. While his character reappears briefly later in the series, he remains a peripheral figure, representing a painful chapter in Serena’s past. The show hints at him finding some measure of peace and professional success.
H3: How did other characters react to Serena and Ben’s breakup?
The reactions were varied. Blair, satisfied with her manipulation, moved on to other schemes. Lily likely felt a sense of relief, believing she had saved Serena from a damaging relationship. Dan, always carrying a torch for Serena, saw an opportunity to rekindle their connection. Nate, generally supportive of Serena’s happiness, expressed concern about the intensity of her relationship with Ben.
H3: What is the overall message conveyed through Serena and Ben’s storyline?
The storyline serves as a cautionary tale about the complexities and potential dangers of relationships built on unequal power dynamics and obscured by secrets. It highlights the importance of ethical considerations, personal responsibility, and the enduring impact of past mistakes. Ultimately, it underscores the idea that some relationships, no matter how intense, are simply unsustainable due to inherent flaws and external pressures. The tragic relationship is a reminder that love, however genuine, isn’t always enough to overcome deeply ingrained societal and personal challenges.