Alden, a former Savior who found redemption within the Alexandria community, met his tragic end in Season 11, Episode 8, “For Blood.” His death marked a significant loss for the group and served as a grim reminder of the escalating dangers they faced. This article delves into the circumstances surrounding Alden’s demise, exploring his character arc and the impact of his death on the remaining survivors.
The Fall of a Redeemed Soul
Alden’s journey from a loyal member of Negan’s Saviors to a valued member of the Alexandria Safe-Zone was a testament to his capacity for change and growth. Initially skeptical of Rick Grimes’ leadership, he gradually embraced the ideals of cooperation and community. He played a crucial role in rebuilding after the war against the Saviors, often serving as a voice of reason and a bridge between different factions. His relationship with Enid was particularly poignant, and her death deeply affected him. This loss, however, only seemed to solidify his commitment to protecting the new family he had found.
Episode 1108, “For Blood,” sees Alden, along with Maggie, Negan, and others, battling the Reapers. Wounded during an attack and unable to keep up, Alden selflessly urged Maggie to leave him behind and continue the mission. Knowing his injuries were fatal and wanting to protect the others, he chose to stay and hold off any potential pursuers. It was a selfless act, indicative of his transformation and commitment to the safety of his new community. Ultimately, Alden succumbed to his wounds and was discovered zombified by Negan, who was forced to put him down.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Alden’s Death
This section aims to address common questions and provide a deeper understanding of Alden’s death and its context within the broader narrative of The Walking Dead.
1. Why did Alden stay behind in “For Blood”?
Alden stayed behind primarily due to the severity of his wounds. He recognized that his condition would significantly slow down the group and potentially jeopardize their mission. He made the difficult but selfless decision to sacrifice himself, ensuring the others had a better chance of survival and completing their objective against the Reapers. He believed holding off any attackers for a bit could buy the others some time.
2. Was Alden’s death necessary for the plot?
From a narrative perspective, Alden’s death served several purposes. Firstly, it highlighted the ruthlessness of the Reapers and the immense threat they posed. Secondly, it demonstrated the high cost of survival in the post-apocalyptic world. Thirdly, it further complicated the dynamic between Maggie and Negan, as Negan was the one who ultimately had to put Alden down as a walker. Finally, it showed how much Alden cared for the group he was now a part of, even though he was originally from the Saviors.
3. How did Maggie react to Alden’s death?
Maggie was devastated by Alden’s death. Although she had moved on from their initial distrust, she was unable to stay and help him, knowing it would put the mission at risk. This decision haunted her, and his death served as a stark reminder of the sacrifices required to protect her community and her son, Hershel.
4. How did Negan react to having to put Alden down?
While Negan showed little remorse over Alden’s initial demise, the act of putting him down as a walker seemed to affect him deeply. It was a brutal reminder of his past actions and the consequences of violence. It also served as a testament to Alden’s redemption, forcing Negan to confront the fact that even former Saviors could become valuable members of a community. This added another layer to his changing character arc.
5. What was the impact of Alden’s death on the Alexandria community?
Alden’s death was a significant loss for the Alexandria community. He was a skilled craftsman, a loyal friend, and a valuable member of the group. His absence left a void, particularly for those who had worked closely with him in rebuilding the community after the war against the Saviors. He was mourned for his kindness, his dedication, and his willingness to embrace a new life.
6. Did Alden die in the comics, and if so, how?
No, Alden does not die in The Walking Dead comic series. He survives until the end of the comic book run, becoming a member of the council that governs the Commonwealth. His fate in the show diverges significantly from his comic book counterpart.
7. Was there any symbolism associated with Alden’s death?
Alden’s death could be seen as symbolic of the constant struggle between hope and despair in The Walking Dead. Despite his unwavering optimism and commitment to building a better future, he ultimately succumbed to the harsh realities of the post-apocalyptic world. His death served as a reminder that even the most hopeful individuals are not immune to the dangers of their environment.
8. Who were the Reapers, and why were they a threat?
The Reapers were a highly skilled and dangerous group of mercenaries led by Pope. They were known for their brutal tactics, their religious fanaticism, and their unwavering loyalty to each other. Their training and ruthlessness made them a formidable threat to any community they encountered. They were a strong military unit that had a mission.
9. What was Alden’s relationship with Enid, and how did her death affect him?
Alden and Enid developed a close relationship, characterized by mutual respect and affection. Her death at the hands of the Whisperers deeply affected Alden, leaving him heartbroken and grieving. However, it also strengthened his resolve to protect the remaining members of his community and honor her memory by fighting for a better future.
10. How did Alden’s past as a Savior influence his character and his eventual fate?
Alden’s past as a Savior shaped his character in several ways. It made him initially hesitant to trust others and wary of authority. However, it also instilled in him a strong sense of loyalty and a desire for redemption. He worked tirelessly to prove himself to the Alexandria community, demonstrating that he was capable of change and deserving of forgiveness. While he changed a lot, his past did influence some of his decisions.
11. Could Alden have survived if he had received medical attention sooner?
Given the severity of Alden’s injuries, it is unlikely that he would have survived even with immediate medical attention. His wounds were significant, and the post-apocalyptic environment presented limited resources and increased risks of infection. While medical intervention might have prolonged his life, it is improbable that it would have saved him.
12. What is Alden’s legacy in The Walking Dead?
Alden’s legacy in The Walking Dead is that of a man who found redemption and embraced a new life of purpose and selflessness. He served as a symbol of hope and reconciliation, demonstrating that even those who have made mistakes can change and contribute to a better future. His death, though tragic, served as a testament to his bravery, his loyalty, and his unwavering commitment to protecting his community. He will be remembered as a hero who found light after a dark past.