Exploring Purgatory’s Role in Supernatural
With Dean now in Purgatory on Supernatural, there’s a wealth of questions and possibilities surrounding this mysterious realm. In a previous article, we delved into the seventh season, discussing everything from the Leviathans to the Winchesters’ storylines and guest stars. However, Purgatory itself and its potential impact on Dean deserve a closer examination.
Some fans have compared Dean’s arrival in Purgatory to the season 3 finale, where he ended up in Hell. While there are similarities, I believe Purgatory offers a distinct storyline from Hell, regardless of whether Castiel is with Dean or not. Here’s why.
Alive vs. Dead: Dean’s Existence in Purgatory
One significant difference between Purgatory and Hell is Dean’s state of being. In Hell, Dean was a soul, whereas in Purgatory, I assume he’s alive. This distinction drastically changes his situation. In Hell, Dean could be destroyed and reassembled repeatedly, but if he’s alive in Purgatory, he must contend with not only survival but also basic human needs like food, shelter, and sleep. If Dean dies in Purgatory, as Castiel ominously warned, he’s likely dead for good, which is an outcome no one wants.
Accident vs. Choice: How Dean Ended Up in Purgatory
Dean’s journey to Hell was a conscious decision, as he sold his soul to save Sam’s life. Despite his fear, he accepted an eternity in Hell to ensure Sam’s survival. In contrast, Dean’s arrival in Purgatory was an unintended consequence of killing Dick. This lack of choice will likely influence Dean’s attitude and motivation to escape Purgatory, as he doesn’t belong there.
Survival vs. Punishment: Purgatory as a Learning Experience
Purgatory could serve as a valuable lesson for Dean. His reasons for fighting often stem from a desire to protect others, such as Sam, Bobby, and humanity. If he’s alone in Purgatory, he must fight for his own survival, which could boost his self-worth. Additionally, his feelings toward Purgatory may differ from those toward Hell. While both realms are cruel and filled with monsters, Dean’s actions in Purgatory may not carry the same guilt as those in Hell. Fighting for one’s life against monsters is different from torturing souls to avoid torture oneself.
Sam’s Determination vs. Sam’s Desire for Revenge
In season 4’s “I Know What You Did Last Summer,” we learned about Sam’s actions while Dean was in Hell. Initially, Sam tried to rescue Dean, but when that failed, he sought revenge against Lilith, influenced by Ruby and his growing addiction to demon blood. Ultimately, Sam’s actions were manipulated to break the last seal. We later discovered that only angels could have saved Dean from Hell, making Sam’s efforts futile.
However, Purgatory presents a different scenario. Dean didn’t choose to go there, and Sam will likely stop at nothing to save him. Castiel’s ability to open a portal to Purgatory suggests it’s more accessible than Hell, albeit still dangerous. Without Ruby’s influence, Sam’s reaction to Dean’s predicament will be different, offering a chance to save his brother that wasn’t possible before. If Sam rescues Dean, it could help mend any lingering fractures in their relationship since season 4, leading to a heartfelt reunion.
What are your thoughts on Purgatory’s impact on Dean and the Winchesters? Supernatural moves to Wednesday nights for its eighth season, returning in October.
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