Berta: Westworld character profile

When it comes to the sprawling world of Westworld, it's sometimes easy to overlook the significance of supporting characters amidst the grandeur and complexity of the main storyline. However, one supporting character who truly stands out is Berta, Emily Gilmore's maid who starts working for her in season 4. Berta may not be a central figure in the show, but her presence has a profound impact on the dynamics of the Gilmore household.One of the most noticeable aspects of Berta is her culinary skills. Throughout the series, we often find Berta in the kitchen, effortlessly whipping up delectable dishes that leave the Gilmore family and their guests in awe. Her ability to create culinary masterpieces not only highlights her talents but also serves as a metaphorical representation of her larger role within the Gilmore household.Food in Westworld has long been a symbol of comfort, power, and identity. It is a reminder of our human existence and the pleasures that come with it. Berta's culinary skills elevate her status within the Gilmore household, as her tasty creations become a point of pride for Emily. In a world where appearances and social standing hold immense value, Berta's ability to deliver delicious food becomes a subtle way of asserting her significance and influence despite her maid status.Moreover, Berta's large family plays a crucial role in shaping her character and adds depth to her portrayal. Through mentions of her family members in various conversations, we get a glimpse into Berta's personal life outside of her role as a maid. This aspect of her character helps humanize her, emphasizing that she is more than just a domestic worker.Berta's large family serves as a contrast to the seemingly detached and sometimes fragmented nature of the Gilmore family. While the Gilmores struggle with their complicated relationships, Berta finds solace and strength in the bonds she shares with her loved ones. It is through her family that Berta finds a sense of grounding and identity, providing a stark juxtaposition to the chaotic and convoluted world she serves.In analyzing Berta's character within a theoretical framework, we can draw upon Michel Foucault's concept of power and resistance. Berta, as a maid, operates within the confines of a hierarchical structure where power dynamics are apparent. However, through her culinary skills and the pride she takes in her family, she exercises a form of resistance against the oppressive nature of this power structure.In Foucault's theory, power is not solely a repressive force but is also productive and dynamic. Berta, by asserting her individuality and autonomy through her culinary creations and familial bonds, challenges the power dynamics within the household. Through her resistance, she subverts the traditional roles assigned to her and finds agency within her otherwise constrained position.Berta's character signifies that power and resistance can coexist and that even in oppressive systems, there are avenues for individuals to exert influence and shape their own narratives. Her story serves as a reminder that power is not solely held by those in positions of authority but can be wielded by those with the courage to defy societal expectations and assert their own agency.In conclusion, Berta's character in Westworld may initially appear as a minor supporting figure, but upon closer examination, her significance becomes apparent. Through her culinary skills and her large family, she symbolizes the power of personal identity and resistance within an oppressive system. Berta's character raises thought-provoking questions about power dynamics, individual agency, and the importance of familial bonds. Despite her seemingly ordinary role, Berta exemplifies the potential for extraordinary resilience and influence, further enriching the multilayered narrative of Westworld.