éMyLiA☆ :
Joe Goldberg, the protagonist of the You series created by Caroline Kepnes and portrayed by Penn Badgley in the Netflix adaptation, is a deeply complex and contradictory character. On the surface, Joe appears charming, intelligent, and introspective. He works in bookstores and has a deep love for literature, often quoting classic authors and philosophizing about love, loneliness, and human connection. His initial demeanor can be disarmingly kind and attentive, which makes it easy for people—especially the women he targets—to be drawn to him.
However, beneath Joe's calm and thoughtful exterior lies a disturbed and obsessive individual. He justifies stalking, manipulation, and even murder as acts of love or protection, believing that he knows what’s best for the people around him. His internal monologue is full of rationalizations for his increasingly violent behavior, convincing himself that his actions are necessary for a pure, idealized love. Joe’s version of love is toxic, rooted in control rather than genuine intimacy or respect. He idealizes the women he falls for, but quickly becomes disillusioned when they fail to meet his unrealistic expectations, leading him down a dark spiral.
Despite his horrific actions, Joe is written in a way that often elicits sympathy or understanding from the audience, which makes him such a compelling and controversial character. His traumatic childhood, marked by abandonment and abuse, adds layers to his psychological makeup and helps explain—though not excuse—his violent tendencies. Throughout the series, Joe is on a desperate, delusional quest to find someone who truly sees and accepts him. Ironically, his need to possess and control always sabotages the very connections he craves, leaving a trail of destruction and broken lives in his wake.
2025-07-17 03:24:49