Dexter never actually attempts to kill Hannah McKay. While he contemplates the act and actively prepares to administer a lethal dose, his feelings for her ultimately prevail, preventing him from carrying out his grim ritual. The moral conflict within Dexter, torn between his Dark Passenger and his burgeoning emotions, reaches its apex in Season 7, Episode 9, “Helter Skelter.”
The Murky Waters of Morality: Why Dexter Considered Killing Hannah
The relationship between Dexter Morgan and Hannah McKay is one of the most complex and debated within the entire Dexter series. Both are killers, but their motivations and methods differ significantly, leading to a constant tension and a moral tightrope walk for Dexter. He grapples with the question of whether someone like Hannah, who seemingly lacks true remorse for her crimes, deserves to live.
Hannah’s Past and Dexter’s Internal Conflict
Hannah McKay’s history is fraught with violence. She was implicated in the deaths of several men, initially involved with her abusive boyfriend and later, seemingly acting alone. Unlike Dexter, who adhered to Harry’s Code, Hannah’s kills appeared opportunistic and driven by self-preservation, raising serious questions in Dexter’s mind about her true nature. This directly clashes with the code he strives to follow, adding to his inner turmoil.
“Helter Skelter”: The Point of No Return?
“Helter Skelter” marks a pivotal moment. Dexter has acquired the drugs necessary to execute Hannah, meticulously preparing his kill room and sharpening his tools. The episode builds unbearable tension, showing Dexter wrestling with his decision. He sees Hannah as a threat to his future, particularly to Debra, but the undeniable connection they share complicates everything. The moment he is about to inject her, Dexter stops, unable to follow through, illustrating the strength of his developing feelings. The internal struggle is visible on his face, a grimace of anguish and relief battling for dominance. This moment defines their relationship, showing how far Dexter is willing to bend his code for Hannah.
Decoding Dexter’s Moral Compass: A Closer Look
Dexter’s moral code is a flawed and constantly evolving construct. He justifies his actions through Harry’s teachings, targeting other killers to satiate his homicidal urges. However, his relationships, particularly with Rita and later Hannah, expose the cracks in this system. These connections force him to confront the very nature of his darkness and the possibility of genuine human connection.
The Influence of Harry’s Code
Harry’s Code, a set of rules instilled in Dexter by his adoptive father, was designed to channel his murderous instincts towards a “productive” purpose. It provides a framework for justifying his actions and maintaining a semblance of control. However, the code’s rigidity is constantly tested, particularly when Dexter is forced to make difficult choices about people he cares about, like Hannah.
Beyond the Code: Love, Loyalty, and Complicated Emotions
The relationship with Hannah challenges the very foundation of Harry’s Code. His burgeoning love for her introduces a level of complexity that the code simply cannot accommodate. Dexter must confront the possibility that his own desires and emotions are influencing his judgment, blurring the lines between right and wrong. The conflict between his code and his love for Hannah reveals the fundamental flaw in his belief system – that human emotion can be easily suppressed or rationalized.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dexter and Hannah
Here are some frequently asked questions that shed light on the complexities of Dexter’s relationship with Hannah McKay:
Q1: What initially draws Dexter to Hannah McKay?
Dexter is initially drawn to Hannah because she is a killer, like him. He is fascinated by her ability to compartmentalize her actions and live a seemingly normal life. This shared experience creates a unique bond and a sense of understanding that he rarely finds with others.
Q2: Why does Debra disapprove of Hannah?
Debra disapproves of Hannah primarily because she sees her as a threat. She believes Hannah is manipulative and dangerous and worries about the potential harm she could inflict on Dexter and those around him. Debra’s protective instincts are amplified by her own past trauma and her deep concern for her brother’s well-being.
Q3: Does Hannah genuinely love Dexter?
Whether Hannah genuinely loves Dexter is a matter of debate. She certainly has strong feelings for him, but her motives are often ambiguous. Some argue that she is capable of genuine affection, while others believe she is primarily using him for her own benefit and protection.
Q4: What are the key differences between Dexter’s and Hannah’s methods of killing?
Dexter adheres to Harry’s Code, meticulously planning his kills and only targeting other murderers. Hannah’s killings appear more opportunistic and driven by self-preservation. She doesn’t necessarily target other killers, making her a greater threat in Dexter’s eyes.
Q5: How does Dexter’s relationship with Hannah affect his relationship with Debra?
Dexter’s relationship with Hannah creates a significant rift between him and Debra. Debra is deeply concerned about Hannah’s influence on Dexter and feels betrayed by his decision to pursue a relationship with her. This conflict strains their already complicated sibling bond.
Q6: What ultimately happens to Hannah in the series?
Hannah ultimately flees to Argentina with Harrison, Dexter’s son. Dexter chooses to prioritize Harrison’s well-being over his own desire to continue killing, opting to join them. However, tragedy strikes during a hurricane, and Dexter is presumed dead at sea, leaving Hannah to raise Harrison on her own. (Note: Dexter: New Blood later retcons this.)
Q7: Is Hannah responsible for any other deaths after her initial crimes?
Throughout the series, Hannah is suspected of further crimes, primarily poisoning. The ambiguity surrounding her involvement in these incidents adds to her mystique and fuels the debate about her true nature.
Q8: How does Harrison react to Hannah?
Harrison develops a close bond with Hannah, seeing her as a maternal figure. He seems to sense her warmth and caring nature, further complicating Dexter’s feelings about her.
Q9: What role does Yvonne Strahovski play in Hannah’s portrayal?
Yvonne Strahovski delivers a compelling and nuanced performance as Hannah McKay. She perfectly captures the character’s complexity, leaving the audience questioning her motives and constantly guessing about her true nature. Her performance adds depth and intrigue to the character, making her one of the most memorable antagonists in the series.
Q10: How does the audience’s perception of Hannah evolve throughout the series?
The audience’s perception of Hannah is constantly shifting. Initially, she is viewed as a dangerous and manipulative killer. However, as the series progresses and her relationship with Dexter deepens, some viewers begin to sympathize with her, while others remain skeptical. This ambiguity is a testament to the character’s complexity and the show’s skillful writing.
Q11: What is the significance of the poison Hannah uses?
The poison Hannah uses in her crimes symbolizes her deceptive nature and her ability to manipulate situations to her advantage. It also highlights her cold and calculating approach to killing, in contrast to Dexter’s more ritualistic method.
Q12: How does the ending of Dexter: New Blood affect Hannah’s legacy?
The ending of Dexter: New Blood significantly impacts Hannah’s legacy. With Dexter’s ultimate demise at the hands of his son Harrison, who was raised by Hannah, it suggests that she successfully instilled a sense of morality and justice in him, even in the absence of Dexter’s “code.” This can be interpreted as a vindication of sorts for Hannah, suggesting that despite her past, she was ultimately capable of raising a responsible individual. It also serves as a final, tragic confirmation that Dexter’s influence, and Harry’s code, were ultimately detrimental.