Mikael, the formidable and feared original vampire hunter, meets his ultimate demise in The Originals season 2, episode 3, titled “Every Mother’s Son.” This episode marks a pivotal moment in the series, freeing Klaus from his father’s constant pursuit and setting the stage for new power dynamics in New Orleans.
Understanding the Context of Mikael’s Death
Mikael’s death is not simply an isolated event; it’s the culmination of centuries of animosity, complicated family relationships, and a relentless hunt. To fully appreciate its significance, we need to understand the events leading up to this moment.
The Origin of Mikael’s Hatred
Mikael’s hatred for Klaus stemmed from a revelation that shattered their family and redefined their identities. The revelation that Klaus was not Mikael’s biological son, but the result of an affair between Esther and a werewolf, ignited a fury within Mikael that transformed him into the ruthless vampire hunter we know. This betrayal, coupled with the accidental death of his daughter Freya, fueled his obsession with destroying Klaus, whom he saw as an abomination.
Mikael’s Presence in New Orleans
Prior to his ultimate confrontation with Klaus and the Mikaelson siblings, Mikael haunted Klaus’s existence for over a thousand years. His arrival in New Orleans threatened the fragile peace Klaus had established and resurrected deeply buried resentments within the family. Mikael sought to eliminate Klaus, believing him to be a blight on the world, and his actions directly impacted the lives of numerous characters in the series. His presence created constant tension and forced the Mikaelsons to unite, albeit reluctantly, against a common enemy.
The Fatal Confrontation in “Every Mother’s Son”
The episode “Every Mother’s Son” masterfully orchestrates the final showdown between Klaus and Mikael. It’s a battle filled with emotional intensity, strategic maneuvering, and ultimately, a surprising twist.
The Plan Unfolds
The confrontation is not a spontaneous brawl but a carefully orchestrated plan designed by Klaus and aided by his siblings, particularly Elijah. Klaus lures Mikael to a specific location, prepared to exploit his father’s weaknesses and vulnerabilities. The plan involves utilizing Mikael’s own rage against him, turning him into a pawn in their intricate game.
The Turning Point: Klaus’s Deception
The crucial element of the plan involves Hayley, now a powerful hybrid, whose blood is used to weaken Mikael. Klaus uses his cunning and knowledge of Mikael’s mindset to orchestrate a scenario where Mikael believes he has the upper hand. This perceived victory blinds him to the trap that is being laid, enabling Klaus to deliver the fatal blow.
The Final Blow: Klaus’s Triumph
In a dramatic climax, Klaus drives Papa Tunde’s blade, a weapon imbued with potent magic, into Mikael’s heart. This action, witnessed by Elijah and Hayley, marks the definitive end of Mikael’s reign of terror. His death signifies a turning point for Klaus, finally releasing him from the shackles of his father’s constant pursuit and allowing him to forge his own path. While Klaus certainly carries on his father’s less desirable personality traits, he no longer has to fear him.
The Aftermath of Mikael’s Death
Mikael’s death reverberates throughout the series, impacting the dynamics of the Mikaelson family and the power struggles in New Orleans.
Impact on the Mikaelson Family
The immediate aftermath brings a temporary sense of relief and a brief period of unity among the Mikaelsons. However, the complex relationships within the family prevent this peace from lasting long. The underlying issues that fueled their animosity toward each other remain, and new conflicts soon arise.
Consequences for New Orleans
Mikael’s absence creates a power vacuum in New Orleans, leading to renewed conflicts among the various factions vying for control. His death removes a significant obstacle for Klaus, but it also opens the door for new threats to emerge, forcing him to navigate treacherous alliances and defend his territory.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Mikael’s Death
Here are some frequently asked questions related to Mikael’s death in The Originals, offering further insights into the character and his impact on the series.
FAQ 1: Was Mikael really dead?
Yes, Mikael was definitively killed in “Every Mother’s Son.” While The Vampire Diaries universe is known for resurrections and supernatural loopholes, Mikael’s death was permanent within the context of The Originals. Papa Tunde’s blade, combined with Klaus’s determination, ensured his demise.
FAQ 2: Why was Papa Tunde’s blade so effective against Mikael?
Papa Tunde’s blade was imbued with powerful dark magic, specifically designed to weaken and kill supernatural beings. Its properties made it particularly effective against Original vampires like Mikael, making it the ideal weapon for Klaus to use in his plan. The blade bypassed Mikael’s usual defenses due to its magical properties.
FAQ 3: Did Mikael ever show any redeeming qualities?
Despite his villainous nature, Mikael occasionally displayed glimpses of his former humanity, particularly in his desire to protect his family, albeit in a twisted and controlling manner. However, his obsession with hunting Klaus overshadowed any potential for redemption. He was largely defined by his rage and vengeance.
FAQ 4: How did Mikael return in later seasons?
While Mikael was truly dead, the series utilized flashbacks and alternate realities to revisit his character and explore his past. These appearances didn’t involve a true resurrection but rather a re-examination of his history and motivations within the broader narrative.
FAQ 5: What were Mikael’s weaknesses besides the Papa Tunde blade?
Besides the specific magical weapon, Mikael was vulnerable to white oak ash daggers, which could temporarily incapacitate him. Also, his uncontrollable rage and obsession often clouded his judgment and made him susceptible to manipulation.
FAQ 6: Did Mikael regret his actions towards Klaus?
There’s little evidence to suggest that Mikael genuinely regretted his actions towards Klaus. He remained steadfast in his belief that Klaus was an abomination that needed to be eliminated. His hatred consumed him entirely, leaving little room for remorse.
FAQ 7: How did Mikael escape from the Other Side previously?
Mikael’s earlier return from the Other Side (in The Vampire Diaries) was orchestrated by witches who sought to use him as a weapon against Klaus. This involved specific spells and a temporary loophole in the supernatural balance. However, those conditions were not present when he died in The Originals.
FAQ 8: What was Mikael’s relationship with Esther like before Klaus’s birth?
Prior to the events that led to Klaus’s birth, Mikael and Esther were portrayed as a loving couple. The betrayal and the subsequent loss of Freya dramatically changed their relationship, setting the stage for the animosity that would define their later interactions.
FAQ 9: How did Mikael track Klaus for centuries?
Mikael’s ability to track Klaus stemmed from his immense strength, knowledge of ancient magic, and relentless determination. He utilized various tracking spells and relied on his reputation to instill fear and gather information about Klaus’s whereabouts.
FAQ 10: Did Hope Mikaelson ever meet Mikael?
Hope, Klaus’s daughter, did not directly interact with Mikael in The Originals. However, his legacy and the impact of his actions significantly shaped her life and influenced the events surrounding her birth and upbringing.
FAQ 11: How did Mikael’s death affect the power structure in New Orleans?
Mikael’s death created a power vacuum in New Orleans, as he was a significant threat to all factions. While Klaus benefited most directly, other supernatural groups, like the werewolves and the witches, sought to capitalize on the shifting landscape.
FAQ 12: Was Mikael truly evil or simply misguided?
While Mikael’s actions were undeniably cruel and destructive, his motivations stemmed from a deep-seated sense of betrayal and a desire to protect his family (albeit in a warped way). Whether he was truly evil or simply misguided is a matter of perspective, but his impact on the lives of the Mikaelsons was undeniably profound. He’s more accurately depicted as an antagonist shaped by trauma and fuelled by vengeance rather than a purely evil entity.