Ben (Character) - The Maze Runner series by James Dashner

Ben in The Maze Runner Series

Introduction

Ben is a semi-minor character in James Dashner’s The Maze Runner series, introduced in the first book of the trilogy. He is a former Runner in the Glade, a mysterious enclosure where a group of teenagers, known as the Gladers, are trapped and forced to navigate a deadly maze. Ben’s character is significant for his role in highlighting the rigid rules and harsh consequences within the Glade, as well as his dramatic transformation after undergoing "The Changing," a process that alters his mental state.

Ben is nearly sixteen years old, described as a skinny boy with pale skin, blond hair, and deep eyes ^[2][5]. His backstory is limited, but his actions and interactions with other characters provide insight into his personality and the societal dynamics of the Glade.

Role in the Story

Ben’s storyline is closely tied to the arrival of Thomas, the main protagonist, in the Glade. On the day Thomas arrives, Ben is undergoing The Changing, a painful and psychologically distressing process that occurs when a Glader is stung by a Griever, the biomechanical creatures that inhabit the maze. This process triggers a series of violent and erratic behaviors in Ben, leading him to develop a strong desire to kill Thomas, whom he believes does not belong in the Glade ^[2][4][5].

Ben’s attempt to murder Thomas is thwarted by Alby, the leader of the Gladers, who shoots Ben with a bow to protect Thomas. Despite Ben’s subsequent apologies and claims that The Changing was controlling his actions, he is banished from the Glade. This banishment is a stark example of the strict adherence to rules within the Glade; any attempt to harm another Glader results in severe punishment, often leading to death outside the safety of the Glade ^[1][2][4].

Ben’s character also serves to illustrate the dire situation and the fear that permeates the Glade. His banishment contrasts with Thomas’s relative leniency when he breaks rules, highlighting Thomas’s special status among the Gladers ^[4].

Character Analysis

Ben’s personality is largely defined by his actions after The Changing. Before this event, he is portrayed as a former Runner, suggesting he was once part of the group that ventured into the maze to map it. However, after The Changing, Ben becomes a symbol of the psychological trauma and instability that the Gladers can experience.

His motivations are driven by a distorted sense of loyalty and protection towards the Glade and its inhabitants. Ben’s belief that Thomas is a threat to their community is a misguided attempt to maintain order and safety within the Glade. This misguided loyalty underscores the themes of paranoia and mistrust that are prevalent in the series.

Ben’s strengths lie in his initial role as a Runner, indicating physical and mental resilience. However, his flaws are more pronounced, particularly his inability to control his actions after The Changing. This lack of control makes him a compelling yet tragic figure, highlighting the brutal consequences of the experiments conducted by WICKED, the organization behind the maze.

Themes and Symbolism

Ben embodies several key themes in The Maze Runner series. His character represents the theme of control and the consequences of losing it. The Changing symbolizes the loss of individual autonomy and the psychological toll of the experiments on the Gladers. Ben’s actions serve as a warning about the dangers of unchecked emotions and the rigid enforcement of rules in a desperate bid for survival ^[2][4][5].

Additionally, Ben’s banishment symbolizes the theme of isolation and the harsh penalties for deviating from the norms of the Glade. This event underscores the fear and mistrust that govern the relationships among the Gladers, highlighting the difficulties of forming and maintaining bonds in a highly stressful and dangerous environment.

Cultural Impact

Ben’s character, although not central to the narrative, has a significant impact on the cultural reception of the series. His portrayal in both the books and the movie adaptations illustrates the brutal and unforgiving nature of the world created by James Dashner. Fans of the series often discuss Ben’s tragic fate as an example of the high stakes and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters.

In adaptations, Ben’s role is often used to emphasize the danger and unpredictability of the Glade. His character serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of violence and the importance of community rules, even in the most extreme circumstances.

Critical Reception

Critics and audiences have generally viewed Ben as a tragic figure whose actions are driven by circumstances beyond his control. His character is seen as a reflection of the psychological effects of trauma and the strict social norms within the Glade. While Ben is not a favorite character among fans, his role is recognized as crucial in setting the tone for the series and highlighting the themes of control, loyalty, and survival.

Some critics have noted that Ben’s character serves to contrast with Thomas’s, emphasizing Thomas’s special status and the leniency he receives despite breaking rules. This contrast adds depth to the narrative, illustrating the complexities of leadership and the moral ambiguities faced by the characters ^[4].

Legacy

Ben’s legacy in The Maze Runner series is that of a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked emotions and the consequences of strict social control. His character has inspired discussions about the psychological effects of trauma and the importance of empathy and understanding in extreme situations.

While Ben may not be a central character, his impact on the narrative and the themes of the series is significant. He represents a broader archetype of the tragic figure, driven by circumstances to act in ways that ultimately lead to their downfall. This archetype is a common theme in literature and media, making Ben a relatable and memorable character despite his limited role.