Overview of the Seraphites in The Last of Us Franchise
- The Seraphites, known for their gruesome tactics, use their religious beliefs to rationalize acts of violence within The Last of Us universe.
- Both the game and HBO adaptation portray the horrific behaviors of the Seraphites, suggesting that the series will not shy away from graphic content.
- The upcoming Season 2 is expected to delve deeper into the backgrounds and motivations of Seraphite characters while retaining their violent essence.
The Last of Us series excels at illustrating horror beyond the Cordyceps fungus, particularly through its portrayal of human adversaries. These characters exhibit instinctual violence, but what intensifies the fear is their conscious choice to engage in brutality.
In its debut season, the HBO adaptation did well to capture this aspect, presenting hostile factions that mirrored the chilling essence of the games. While the show explored the motivations of certain villains, such as the Pittsburgh hunters—initially depicted as ruthless killers—it also portrayed other groups, like David’s cannibalistic gang, in their full horrifying reality, emphasizing the grimness of their actions without restraint.
Exploring the Origin of the Seraphites in The Last of Us
Originating as a religious sect in Seattle, the Seraphites emerged in the wake of the Cordyceps outbreak, interpreting the infection as divine retribution for humanity’s transgressions. Their beliefs led them towards an austere lifestyle characterized by simple robes and weapons, primarily bows and blades. Male members are mandated to shave their heads as part of their commitment to the faith led by a single visionary known as ‘The Prophet’, who promoted egalitarian ideals and established strict rules to guide her followers, including a ban on all artifacts from the pre-apocalyptic world.
Commonly labeled as ‘Scars’—a term used pejoratively by their adversaries, the Washington Liberation Front (WLF)—the Seraphites bear distinct facial markings that symbolize the inherent flaws of humanity, in accordance with the teachings of their Prophet. Despite this designation, the Seraphites prefer to be called by their original name.
The long-standing conflict between the Seraphites and WLF has resulted in a violent struggle for territory in Seattle, with a brief truce noted in the past. Often, the WLF portrays the Seraphites as barbaric savages, a viewpoint that isn’t entirely unfounded given some of the faction’s brutal methods.
In gameplay, the Seraphites engage in appalling acts of violence, notably demonstrated in a scene where they execute an enemy by hanging him and disemboweling him as a form of punishment for perceived sins. Following the execution, chanting of “now they are free”reveals the twisted justification for their brutality, deeply rooted in their religious ethos.
Expect No Censorship of the Seraphites’ Brutality from HBO
Given the tone of Season 1, it’s likely that showrunner Craig Mazin will continue to embrace the gruesome elements in Season 2, rather than softening the content to appeal to broader demographics. The immense success of the inaugural season grants the creative team considerable leeway to maintain their original vision.
Although the trailer for Season 2 contains limited glimpses of the Seraphites, indications point to a focus on their brutal practices being consistent with the franchise’s established reputation. One notable scene reminiscent of a key moment from the games is depicted, where a Seraphite is seen preparing to execute someone with a scythe, raising anticipation for the unflinching violence that may follow.
Season 2 will also attempt to offer a more nuanced view of the Seraphites, illuminating their motivations through characters like Lev and Yara, who introduce themes of peace within their faith. This depth aligns with the overarching narrative of The Last of Us Part II, which explores the conflicts of violence and ideology amid a post-apocalyptic world.
Ultimately, the introduction of the Seraphites is set to elevate the level of horror and violence depicted on-screen, promising a terrifying new chapter for audiences in the ongoing saga of The Last of Us.