The Psychology of a Renegade: What Drives Faye Valentine's Decisions in Cowboy Bebop?
Faye Valentine is a renegade, and her sexual and reckless behavior fuels her decisions in Cowboy Bebop. Her decisions don’t just run skin deep, but a deeper psychological motivation that can be seen in her motivation, her mannerisms, and her actions.
Motivation
When we look at Faye, it’s clearly evident that she owes no one a thing, she isn’t loyal to anyone but herself, and her motivations always derive from her own personal goals. This is often exemplified by her ruthless and impulsive nature, and her lack of regard for consequences. This can be seen in the way she peddles around the universe, stealing, swindling, and scrounging up Righteous Kills for her own payday. This is the ultimate expression of her renegade attitude; a complete lack of regard for her actions, and an almost animal instinct for self-preservation.
Mannerisms
It’s no surprise that alongside her renegade mindset, Faye also handles motion and wit with equal ferocity. She’s always in the mood for seduction, using her alluring, vixen-like personality to get her way. Her words reflect her attitude of never taking anything from anyone, and only consuming for herself. She’s also not afraid of getting her hands a little dirty, confident in her own abilities and indifference to adversity.
Actions
When Faye’s in a situation, her choices are usually based solely on her own personal benefit. She’s never willing to lend a hand unless it’s to her own advantage, something which can make her look a little cold to those around her, yet it’s always motivated by her natural instinct for self-preservation. Even when she finds herself in a world she doesn’t quite understand, she quickly adapts and makes the most of her situation, using her cunning and creativity to gain the upper hand.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, Faye Valentine’s decisions are driven by the psychology of a renegade. From her motivation, her mannerisms, and her actions, we can see why she's so successful in the universe; she knows what she wants, and she’ll go to any lengths to get it.