Damon and Elena’s tumultuous romance, a cornerstone of The Vampire Diaries, finally culminated in a genuine relationship in Season 4, Episode 23, “Graduation.” While there were earlier instances of attraction and even physical intimacy, “Graduation” marks the moment they declare their love and commit to a future together as a couple.
The Long and Winding Road: A Breakdown of Damon and Elena’s Relationship
The relationship between Damon Salvatore and Elena Gilbert was anything but straightforward. From initial animosity and forced attraction to a genuine connection forged through shared experiences and mutual respect, their journey was filled with obstacles, heartbreak, and moments of undeniable passion. Understanding the complexities of their relationship requires exploring the key milestones leading up to their official coupling in “Graduation.”
Early Interactions and Forced Attraction
Initially, Damon appeared as a villain, captivated by Elena’s resemblance to Katherine Pierce, the woman who turned him and his brother into vampires. He exerted a subtle yet undeniable control over her, using his vampire powers to manipulate her thoughts and emotions. This period laid the foundation for the complicated dynamic that would define their relationship, built on a mixture of lust, obsession, and a twisted sense of connection.
Developing Trust and Friendship
As the series progressed, Damon began to reveal layers of vulnerability. He displayed moments of selflessness, even risking his own life to protect Elena and her friends. This slowly fostered a sense of trust and a genuine friendship began to blossom. Elena started to see beyond Damon’s dangerous exterior, recognizing the pain and loneliness that fueled his actions.
The Blood Bond and Conflicting Feelings
The sire bond, created when Elena turned into a vampire after Damon’s blood, became a significant hurdle in their relationship. The bond compelled Elena to obey Damon’s commands, raising questions about the authenticity of her feelings. While Elena eventually broke the sire bond, the doubts lingered, forcing both Damon and Elena to confront the possibility that her feelings were not entirely genuine.
Graduation: The Moment of Truth
Despite the lingering doubts, Damon and Elena’s connection proved too strong to deny. In “Graduation,” facing the potential loss of everyone they loved, they finally confessed their true feelings for one another. This moment wasn’t just about physical attraction; it was about a deep understanding, a shared history, and a genuine commitment to a future together. Damon acknowledged the darkness within him, while Elena recognized the good that he was capable of. This mutual acceptance and unwavering love solidified their relationship, marking the beginning of their official journey as a couple.
Understanding the Nuances: FAQs About Damon and Elena’s Relationship
To further clarify the intricacies of Damon and Elena’s relationship and provide deeper insight into their journey, here are some frequently asked questions:
FAQ 1: Was Elena really in love with Damon before she turned into a vampire?
This is a highly debated topic. While there were undeniable signs of attraction and developing feelings, it’s difficult to definitively say she was “in love” before her transformation. Elena grappled with her feelings for both Damon and Stefan, and the sire bond added another layer of complexity to the situation. Many argue that her feelings intensified and solidified after she became a vampire.
FAQ 2: What exactly was the sire bond and how did it affect Elena’s feelings?
The sire bond is a supernatural connection that forms when a vampire is turned by another vampire, making the newly turned vampire feel a strong compulsion to obey the sire’s commands. In Elena’s case, the sire bond to Damon raised significant questions about the authenticity of her feelings for him. It created the perception that her attraction to Damon might have been forced rather than genuine, adding to the turmoil in their relationship.
FAQ 3: Did Damon and Elena sleep together before they officially got together in “Graduation”?
Yes. They shared a passionate encounter in Season 3, Episode 19, “Heart of Darkness,” when Damon took Elena on a road trip. However, this event was highly controversial due to Elena still being with Stefan at the time and the circumstances surrounding it (the sire bond implications were already present). It’s generally not considered the beginning of their official relationship, but rather a significant turning point that demonstrated the growing intensity of their connection.
FAQ 4: Why was Damon considered a controversial love interest for Elena?
Damon’s character was initially portrayed as a villain, characterized by his impulsiveness, violence, and manipulative tendencies. His actions, especially in the early seasons, raised concerns about his suitability as a romantic partner for Elena. His tendency to make reckless decisions and put Elena in danger made him a controversial choice for many fans.
FAQ 5: How did Stefan react to Damon and Elena getting together?
Stefan’s reaction was complex and filled with heartbreak. He struggled to accept Elena’s choice, feeling betrayed and deeply hurt. While he eventually came to terms with their relationship, it remained a source of tension and sadness for him throughout the series.
FAQ 6: What were some of the major obstacles Damon and Elena faced as a couple?
Damon and Elena faced numerous obstacles, including vampire hunters, immortal beings, and personal demons. They constantly had to fight for their relationship against external threats and their own internal struggles. Damon’s dark past and Elena’s inherent goodness often clashed, leading to conflict and uncertainty.
FAQ 7: Did Elena ever regret choosing Damon over Stefan?
There were moments of doubt and uncertainty, particularly when facing incredibly difficult situations or dealing with Damon’s darker impulses. However, Elena ultimately remained committed to Damon, indicating that she didn’t genuinely regret her decision. Their connection, forged through shared pain and unwavering support, proved stronger than any lingering doubts.
FAQ 8: How did Damon change as a result of his relationship with Elena?
Elena had a profound impact on Damon, helping him to embrace his humanity and become a better person. She inspired him to be more selfless, compassionate, and responsible. While he never completely abandoned his mischievous nature, he became more willing to prioritize Elena’s happiness and well-being, even at his own expense.
FAQ 9: What makes Damon and Elena’s relationship so compelling to viewers?
Their relationship resonated with viewers because of its complexity, intensity, and emotional depth. The dynamic between the “good girl” and the “bad boy” appealed to audiences, and the undeniable chemistry between the actors added to the allure. Their relationship was a roller coaster of emotions, filled with passionate moments, heartbreaking conflicts, and unwavering devotion.
FAQ 10: How does Elena deal with Damon’s impulsiveness and violent tendencies?
Elena navigates Damon’s impulsiveness and violent tendencies by acting as his anchor, gently guiding him toward more ethical choices and helping him control his darker impulses. She challenges him to be a better person while still accepting him for who he is. Her love and unwavering belief in his capacity for good serves as a constant reminder of the consequences of his actions.
FAQ 11: What were some of the defining moments in Damon and Elena’s relationship leading up to “Graduation”?
Key moments include: Damon giving Elena the Gilbert necklace that contained vervain, signifying his concern for her safety; Damon rescuing Elena from Elijah, demonstrating his willingness to risk his life for her; and the famous “rain kiss” in Season 3, showcasing the undeniable passion between them. These moments, among others, highlighted the evolution of their connection from animosity to genuine love.
FAQ 12: How does the series conclude Damon and Elena’s story?
The series finale sees Damon and Elena ultimately achieving their “happily ever after.” After enduring countless trials and tribulations, they find peace together. The finale confirms that they get married and live a long and fulfilling life, finally free from the supernatural drama that defined their earlier years. This provides closure for fans who had invested in their relationship from the beginning.