Mad Men: Did Don Draper actually kill Andrea?

Summary of Available Evidence:Multiple articles provide insights into Don Draper's encounter with Andrea in the Mad Men episode "Mystery Date." The scene depicts Don choking a woman after sleeping with her, leaving viewers questioning its true nature. While some interpretations suggest it is a hallucination or a fantasy, others argue it holds a deeper meaning. The prevailing theories include Don's inner torment, the consequences of his actions, and his desire to suppress and bury his past.Analysis:Exploring the Symbolism:The scene with Andrea can be seen as symbolic of Don's inner turmoil and the darker aspects of his character. The woman in the scene represents his haunting past and the repercussions of his actions. By choking her and hiding her under the bed, Don may be attempting to bury his guilt and escape from the consequences that his actions have brought upon him. The act itself could represent his desire to suppress and control his past mistakes, ultimately implying a violent and destructive tendency within him.Considerations of Don's Potential Sociopathic Tendencies:While the evidence does not conclusively establish Don as a serial killer, it raises intriguing possibilities. Don's unusual behavior, such as quickly turning off the news story about murdered women in front of his child's teacher, and mysterious blackouts provide hints at a hidden darkness. Additionally, the author's suspicion surrounding a bar scene where a woman approaches Don and what might have happened to her afterward further deepens the intrigue. Combined with Don's sociopathic tendencies, including a lack of empathy towards his children, these aspects paint a picture of a character with a potential for violence.Analyzing the Fever Dream:The fever dream involving Andrea has strong connections to Don's past trauma with Aimee, his childhood experience of sexual assault. The dream parallels his relationships with women, particularly Sylvia, and his overarching desire for control. Don's attempts to gain control in the dream, which involve killing Andrea, might be seen as a subconscious quest for revenge against the lack of control he experienced during his traumatic encounter with Aimee.Likelihood of Don being a Serial Killer:While the evidence paints an intriguing picture, it is important to recognize that Mad Men often thrives on ambiguity and subtext. It is unlikely that the showrunners intended Don to be a literal serial killer, as it would significantly alter the tone and direction of the series. However, the ambiguity surrounding Don's past actions and dark tendencies adds depth to his character, showcasing the complexity of human nature and the consequences of one's actions.Comparisons and Contrasts:The question of Don Draper potentially being a serial killer brings to mind other complex television characters. For example, Dexter Morgan from the show Dexter also wrestles with a hidden darkness and his own urge to kill. However, unlike Dexter, there is no clear pattern or recurring violent behavior tied to Don. This distinction suggests that Don's actions may be more sporadic and driven by his inner turmoil rather than an inherent need for violence.Moreover, the exploration of Don's potential for violence serves as a commentary on the destructive effects of suppressing and burying one's past. It highlights the psychological toll of guilt and trauma, portraying the consequences it can have on one's relationships, identity, and mental well-being.In conclusion, the evidence surrounding Don Draper's encounter with Andrea in Mad Men's "Mystery Date" episode is open to interpretation. While it suggests deeper meanings regarding Don's inner torment and his desire to escape his past, it does not definitively establish whether he actually killed Andrea. The ambiguity adds a layer of complexity to Don's character, showcasing the consequences of his actions and the darker aspects of his personality. Ultimately, the answer to whether Don Draper killed Andrea lies in the viewer's subjective interpretation and understanding of the show's intricate narrative.