Mark from The Kill Order: A Comprehensive Character Analysis

Introduction

Mark is the central protagonist in James Dashner’s novel, The Kill Order, which serves as the first prequel to the popular Maze Runner series. Set thirteen years before the events of The Maze Runner, Mark’s story unfolds in a post-apocalyptic world devastated by catastrophic solar flares. This young character’s journey is marked by bravery, selflessness, and the struggle to survive in a world ravaged by natural disasters and a deadly virus known as the Flare.

Mark’s origins are rooted in his ordinary life as a teenager in New York City, where his biggest concern was confessing his feelings to his neighbor, Trina. However, his world drastically changes with the onset of the solar flares, forcing him to grow up rapidly and face unimaginable challenges ^[5].

Mark’s defining traits include his bravery, emotional depth, and a strong sense of responsibility, particularly towards those he cares about. His role in the narrative is pivotal as he navigates through the treacherous landscape, making crucial decisions that impact the fate of those around him and the broader storyline of the Maze Runner series.

Role in the Story

Mark’s storyline begins in New York City, where he and Trina survive the initial solar flares and the subsequent tsunami that devastates the city. They form an alliance with Alec, a war veteran, and Lana, a war nurse, who rescue them from a group of street urchins. The group seeks refuge in the Lincoln Building to avoid the impending tsunami, which proves to be a catastrophic event involving searing hot water that kills most survivors in New York ^[1].

After the tsunami, Mark and his group flee to the Appalachian region, where they settle in a small town near Asheville. However, their peace is short-lived as they are attacked by helicopter-like vehicles called Bergs, which release darts containing the deadly Flare virus. Mark and Alec manage to capture a Berg, but their quest for answers is thwarted when the pilot crashes the vehicle to avoid interrogation.

The group’s journey becomes a desperate search for the base of the attackers, during which they encounter various challenges, including infected individuals and a cult that believes Deedee, a five-year-old girl they rescue, is a demon due to her immunity to the Flare virus. Mark’s determination to protect Deedee and uncover the truth about the Flare drives the plot forward, leading them to the Post-Flare Coalition (PFC) base and ultimately to the realization that Deedee is the future Teresa from the original trilogy ^[1].

Character Analysis

Mark’s personality is complex and multifaceted. At the beginning of the novel, he is portrayed as a normal teenager with thoughts and feelings, thrust into a chaotic world. He is often described as naive and impulsive, making rash decisions that reflect his youthful inexperience ^[3].

Despite these flaws, Mark exhibits remarkable bravery and a strong sense of responsibility. He consistently puts himself in danger to protect others, particularly Trina and Deedee, demonstrating a classic hero archetype. His emotional depth is evident in his relationships with other characters; he is driven by a desire to help and save those around him, even when it means putting himself at risk ^[5].

Mark’s growth throughout the novel is significant. He evolves from a somewhat childish and competitive individual to someone who understands the gravity of their situation and makes sacrifices for the greater good. However, his journey is also marked by the devastating effects of the Flare virus, which gradually affects his mind and behavior, turning him into a more aggressive and erratic person ^[3].

Themes and Symbolism

Mark embodies several key themes in The Kill Order. One of the most prominent is the theme of survival and resilience in the face of catastrophic events. Mark’s journey highlights the human capacity to adapt and survive under extreme conditions, as well as the importance of human connections and alliances in such scenarios.

Another significant theme is the struggle between selflessness and self-preservation. Mark’s actions often reflect his desire to help others, even when it jeopardizes his own safety. This dichotomy is symbolized through his relationship with Alec, who represents a more pragmatic and experienced approach to survival, contrasting with Mark’s more emotional and impulsive decisions ^[1].

The character of Mark also symbolizes hope and the potential for redemption in a post-apocalyptic world. His efforts to save Deedee and ensure her safety at the PFC base in Alaska represent a beacon of hope for a future where humanity might find a cure for the Flare virus and rebuild society.

Cultural Impact

Mark’s character has a significant cultural impact within the context of the Maze Runner series. His story provides a crucial backstory to the events of the main trilogy, offering insights into the origins of the Flare virus and the formation of WICKED. This prequel enhances the overall narrative of the series, making it more comprehensive and engaging for readers.

In terms of fan reception, Mark’s character has been well-received for his relatability and the emotional depth he brings to the story. Fans appreciate the detailed character development and the way Mark’s journey complements the broader storyline of the series.

Critical Reception

Critics have praised Mark’s character for his authenticity and the realistic portrayal of a teenager thrust into an extraordinary situation. The character’s growth and development throughout the novel have been highlighted as a strong point, making him a compelling and relatable protagonist.

However, some critics have noted that Mark’s impulsiveness and naivety can sometimes make him less effective as a leader, contrasting him with other characters like Thomas from the main trilogy who exhibit more leadership qualities ^[3].

Legacy

Mark’s enduring appeal lies in his relatability and the universal themes his character represents. His story serves as a powerful exploration of human resilience, selflessness, and the struggle to maintain hope in the face of overwhelming adversity.

In contemporary discussions, Mark’s character can be seen as a reflection of the challenges faced by young people in real-world crises, such as natural disasters or pandemics. His journey underscores the importance of community, courage, and the human spirit in overcoming such challenges.

Mark’s influence on other works or character archetypes is evident in the way he embodies a classic hero archetype while also showing vulnerabilities and flaws, making him a more realistic and engaging character. His story has contributed to the richness of the Maze Runner series, enhancing its depth and complexity.