Who is Milva in “The Witcher” and how does she help Geralt?

The Witcher’s third season brought us a plethora of captivating narratives, intriguing character arcs, and potent relationships that went beyond the realms of magic and monster slaying. However, one relationship that stands out and invites an intriguing discussion is the bond between Geralt of Rivia, our taciturn Witcher, and the woodland elf, Milva. This article aims to examine their dynamic through an unconventional lens - Abraham Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs.

The choice of Maslow's Hierarchy as a tool for analysis might seem out of the ordinary, considering its roots in psychology and human development. However, if we recognize characters as representations of human experiences, emotions, and interactions, it becomes not just relevant but incredibly enlightening.

In Maslow's theory, human needs are categorized into five levels: physiological, safety, love and belonging, esteem, and self-actualization. Each stage must be fulfilled before moving on to the next. But how does this translate to the dynamic between Geralt and Milva? Let’s dissect their relationship level by level.

Physiological and Safety Needs:

At the very basic level of physiological and safety needs, Milva caters to Geralt's physical well-being. Struggling with his slow recovery, Geralt is in a vulnerable state. Milva, as his caregiver, ensures his survival, providing him with care, nourishment, and most importantly, protection from his own stubborn determination to venture out before he's ready.

The element of safety also brings a debate to the forefront. As a Witcher, Geralt is supposed to be the protector. In this case, the roles reverse, painting a striking image of a strong, capable female elf safeguarding the mighty Witcher. This inversion challenges traditional narratives and invites viewers to question stereotypical gender roles in epic fantasy.

Love and Belonging:

This level of Maslow's hierarchy dives deeper into emotional connections, friendships, intimacy, and a sense of communal belonging. Throughout their interactions, an undercurrent of mutual respect and understanding emerges. Milva’s persistent efforts to help Geralt and his reluctant but eventual submission to her care suggest a blossoming of trust and camaraderie. While their relationship may not manifest traditional affection, the mutual respect they display can certainly be construed as a form of love.

Esteem:

Esteem, according to Maslow, revolves around feelings of accomplishment, recognition, and respect from others. Despite the tension, Geralt acknowledges Milva’s skills, as reflected in his decision to allow her to care for him. This mutual recognition further validates their bond, infusing it with respect and self-esteem.

Self-Actualization:

The pinnacle of Maslow's hierarchy, self-actualization, deals with achieving one's full potential. It's debatable whether Geralt and Milva’s relationship reaches this level within the season. However, their interactions undeniably facilitate personal growth. Geralt’s eventual acquiescence to Milva's care could be perceived as him learning humility and trust, while Milva's experience with Geralt might lead her to a better understanding of the complexities of caring for someone so different from herself.

Contrary to traditional analyses, applying Maslow's hierarchy to a fantasy series not only lends a unique perspective but also reveals the universality of human experiences. Geralt and Milva’s relationship transcends the fantastical, reminding us that at its core, 'The Witcher' is a narrative about relationships, growth, and survival.