Leonard Brauer: Hannibal character profile

Hannibal Lecter, the enigmatic and psychopathic psychiatrist, has captivated audiences with his cunning and manipulation in the hit TV series "Hannibal." Among the diverse characters that Hannibal interacts with, Leonard Brauer, a patient at the Baltimore State Hospital for the Criminally Insane, plays a significant role in the plot orchestrated by Dr. Frederick Chilton to manipulate Abel Gideon. In this blog post, we will delve into Leonard Brauer's character, his motivations, and how he becomes entangled in this intricate web of deception.Leonard Brauer is a troubled individual who has been deemed mentally unstable and dangerous, leading to his confinement in the Baltimore State Hospital. His backstory remains largely mysterious, leaving us to wonder about the events that have shaped his psyche. However, it is evident that Brauer is susceptible to manipulation due to his vulnerability and desperation for a sense of purpose or belonging.Enter Dr. Frederick Chilton, the self-serving and ambitious administrator of the Baltimore State Hospital. Chilton, seeking personal gain and recognition, devises a plan to manipulate Brauer in order to fulfill his own ulterior motives. In a bid to establish himself as a renowned psychiatrist, Chilton masterminds a scheme to manipulate Brauer into posing as the infamous serial killer, Abel Gideon.To analyze Brauer's role in this plot, we must consider social psychology and the concept of obedience to authority. Brauer, being a patient in a mental institution, is positioned as a subordinate to those in positions of power, such as doctors and administrators like Chilton. The Milgram Experiment, conducted by psychologist Stanley Milgram in the 1960s, illustrated how individuals could display obedience to authority figures, even if it meant going against their own moral compass. Brauer's susceptibility to manipulation can be attributed, in part, to this psychological phenomenon.Chilton expertly exploits this vulnerability, playing on Brauer's desire to be part of something significant. By presenting him with the opportunity to contribute to the capture and ultimate demise of a notorious killer like Gideon, Chilton capitalizes on Brauer's need for recognition and a sense of purpose. This manipulation is a testament to Chilton's cunning and Machiavellian nature, as he orchestrates the events to suit his own agenda.However, it is crucial to recognize that Brauer is not a mere pawn in this elaborate game. He becomes an unwitting participant in a dangerous plot, driven by desperation and the longing to belong. This characterization raises questions about the morality of manipulation, even when the intentions are seemingly noble. Is it justifiable to exploit someone's vulnerability for personal gain, even if it means "catching" a dangerous criminal?Through Brauer's character, the show delves into the dark and intricate psychology behind manipulation and the blurred boundaries between good and evil. While initially presented as a seemingly insignificant patient, Brauer's involvement in Chilton's plot adds layers of complexity to his character, forcing the viewers to question their own ethical compass.In conclusion, Leonard Brauer's character in "Hannibal" demonstrates the power of manipulation and the impact it can have on vulnerable individuals. Driven by a desire for recognition and purpose, Brauer becomes ensnared in a dangerous game orchestrated by Dr. Frederick Chilton, all in the pursuit of personal gain. Through Brauer's journey, the show raises thought-provoking questions about the morality of manipulation and the complexities of human psychology. As viewers, it is essential to critically assess the actions and motives of characters like Brauer, shedding light on the darker aspects of humanity and the hidden depths of the human mind.