The Rise of Skyler During Breaking Bad's Plot
Skyler's Awkward Journey to Self-Realization
Although it was a roller coaster ride for Skyler White over the course of Breaking Bad, it's been gratifying to witness her progression as a character. What we first viewed as a timid, apprehensive wife and mother to a rising meth kingpin slowly blossomed into a strong and intellectual representation of what a female can be in any aspect.
In one of the earliest episodes, Skyler expressed her apprehension for her husband Walter’s new occupation: “Cooking meth? How is that a reasonable plan?” Although Skyler had a limited understanding of her husband’s “business” at the time, she would quickly become an integral component of it. In a later episode, Skyler showed a remarkable degree of ingenuity in constructing a tax-friendly plan for Walter’s income.
As the show progressed, so did Skyler's standing in the ranks of responsibility. Instead of merely feeling forced into submission of her husband’s wrongdoings and reckless decisions, Skyler came to accept her role in easing them. She took part in issues ranging from intelligence gathering information to breaking bad news.
The Transformation from Victim to Co-conspirator
Skyler steadily became more independent as the seasons went on. She established her own autonomy, intimidating her husband when necessary with her newfound strength: “You clearly don’t know me, so let me clue you in. I am not in danger. I am the danger.”
Now it was Skyler’s stern decisions that ultimately weighed on Walter. At one point, Skyler was offered the chance to find respite from her oppressive lifestyle, but instead chose to return on the vow she made to Walter: “I’m in this. Until the end.” This marked a crucial turning point in Skyler’s characterization, where what was once female victimization had substantially shifted into a balanced, tumultuous relationship between equals.
Skyler's Redemption
In the end as Skyler watched Walter's ultimate demise, her relief and satisfaction of a tumultuous struggle was seen. Skyler was far from perfect, but her flaws were perhaps what made her character so believable. Her ability to overcome and learn her lessons, to grow and secure her family first, marks a tone of true female empowerment.skyler became a symbol of hope and perseverance.
The rediscovery of Skyler’s lost strength and convictions have made her a source of delight to chroniclers of Breaking Bad. Gone are the days of her unsureness and coercion; welcome to the days where Skyler White stands atop a mountain of power and self-reliance.