Hershel Greene: Walking Dead character profile

Hershel Greene, a character in the renowned television series, The Walking Dead, is a veterinarian and farmer who plays a crucial role in providing shelter and a sense of security for Rick's group. However, Hershel's views on the walkers, the reanimated corpses that roam the post-apocalyptic world, differ greatly from the rest of the survivors. While many see them as nothing more than mindless, flesh-consuming monsters, Hershel holds onto a belief that they are merely sick individuals, rather than the deceased brought back to life.Hershel's perspective on the walkers can be seen as both naive and compassionate. In a world filled with horror and violence, his kind-heartedness shines through as he holds onto the hope that perhaps these walkers can be cured or treated. It is important to understand the complexity of Hershel's views and acknowledge the significance of his role in the story.Taking an analytical and theoretical approach, we can explore the high-minded concept of denial and its impact on Hershel's perception. Denial is a defense mechanism commonly used by individuals to protect themselves from confronting painful or uncomfortable truths. In Hershel's case, his denial of the reality of the walkers allows him to maintain a sense of normalcy and hold onto his belief that people can be saved.From a psychological standpoint, denial is a natural response to overwhelming situations. The collapse of society as depicted in the post-apocalyptic world of The Walking Dead is undoubtedly overwhelming, and Hershel's view of the walkers as sick people can be seen as a coping mechanism. By refusing to accept the reanimated state of the walkers, Hershel shields himself from the devastating truth and the ensuing despair that comes with it.However, this denial also reveals Hershel's deeply ingrained optimism, which stems from his background as a veterinarian. As a doctor for animals, Hershel has dedicated his life to saving and healing living creatures. This background influences his view of the walkers, as he sees them not as monsters, but as individuals who may still have a chance to be cured.Hershel's naive perspective is not without consequences. His insistence on keeping walkers alive within the confines of his farm poses a risk to the group's safety. While his intentions are noble, his view of the walkers as potentially curable leads to a false sense of security. This clash between Hershel and the rest of the group, who see the walkers as an imminent threat, creates tension and drives the narrative forward.Though Hershel's views may seem impractical, they are undoubtedly an integral part of his character. He represents the remnants of a pre-apocalyptic world where compassion and hope were valued above all else. By keeping Hershel in the story, the writers of The Walking Dead present us with a stark contrast between the harsh reality of the present and the hope for a better future.In conclusion, Hershel Greene is a complex character whose role as a veterinarian and farmer adds depth to The Walking Dead's narrative. His naive views on the walkers, believing them to be sick people rather than reanimated corpses, stem from his denial and the optimistic values instilled by his profession. While his stance may seem impractical to some, it is essential to understand the significance of his character and the contrast he offers amidst the world of survival and despair.