Ben

Ben in The Maze Runner

Introduction

Ben is a significant character in the dystopian novel and film adaptation of "The Maze Runner" by James Dashner. Created as part of the intricate narrative that explores themes of survival, control, and the human psyche, Ben’s character serves several critical purposes within the story. He is one of the Gladers, a group of teenage boys trapped in the Glade, a mysterious area surrounded by a vast and deadly maze.

Ben’s backstory is shrouded in mystery, much like the other Gladers. He arrives in the Glade with no memory of his past, similar to all the other boys. However, his defining traits and actions are shaped by his experiences within the Glade, particularly after he is stung by a Griever, one of the biomechanical creatures that inhabit the maze.

Ben’s role in the narrative is pivotal in highlighting the rigid rules and the consequences of disobedience within the Glade. His character also underscores the psychological effects of the maze and the experiments conducted by the organization WCKD (World In Catastrophe: Killzone Experiment Department).

Role in the Story

Ben’s storyline is marked by a dramatic and tragic turn of events. Upon being stung by a Griever, Ben undergoes the "Changing," a process that drives him to a state of psychological distress and delirium. This transformation makes him violent and unpredictable, leading him to attempt to kill Thomas, the new arrival in the Glade^[1][4][5].

As a result of his actions, Ben is sentenced to banishment by the Gladers, a decision made to maintain order and protect the group from his erratic behavior. This event is significant as it shows the strict adherence to rules within the Glade and the harsh consequences of breaking them. Ben’s banishment serves as an example of how the Gladers prioritize survival and order over individual well-being^[2][5].

Ben’s relationships with other characters are limited but impactful. His interaction with Thomas is particularly noteworthy, as it sets the stage for Thomas’s integration into the group and his eventual role as a Runner. Ben’s conflict with Thomas also highlights the tension and fear that permeate the Glade, especially after encounters with the Grievers^[1][4].

Character Analysis

Ben’s personality is largely defined by his post-sting behavior. Before the Changing, he is portrayed as a Runner, one of the brave and skilled individuals who navigate the maze to find an exit. However, after being stung, Ben becomes aggressive, delirious, and a threat to the other Gladers. This transformation underscores the psychological toll of the maze and the Grievers on the characters.

Ben’s motivations are driven by his altered state, which is a result of the Griever’s venom. His actions are no longer rational but are instead driven by a mix of fear, pain, and confusion. This makes him a compelling character as it shows the extreme measures the Gladers must take to survive and the consequences of failure^[2][5].

Despite his limited screen time, Ben’s character is relatable in the sense that he represents the vulnerability and fragility of the human psyche under extreme conditions. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of the maze and the importance of maintaining order within the Glade.

Themes and Symbolism

Ben embodies several key themes in "The Maze Runner." One of the most significant themes is the danger of the unknown and the consequences of disobedience. Ben’s transformation after being stung by a Griever symbolizes the unpredictable nature of the maze and the severe penalties for those who fail to adhere to the rules^[3].

Ben also represents the theme of control and order. His banishment highlights the strict rules that govern the Glade and the measures taken to maintain order, even if it means sacrificing individual members. This theme is central to the narrative, as it reflects the broader control exerted by WCKD over the Gladers^[1][4].

Cultural Impact

Ben’s character, although not central to the overall plot, has a significant cultural impact. He represents the darker aspects of human nature under duress and the extreme measures people might take to survive. In adaptations and spin-offs, characters like Ben serve as reminders of the harsh realities of the maze and the experiments conducted by WCKD.

Ben’s portrayal in the film and book has been well-received by fans, who see him as a tragic figure whose fate is a direct result of the cruel environment he is trapped in. His character adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the psychological and physical challenges faced by the Gladers.

Critical Reception

Critics and audiences have perceived Ben as a pivotal character in the narrative, despite his limited role. His transformation and subsequent banishment are seen as critical events that underscore the themes of survival, control, and the human condition.

There has been praise for how Ben’s character adds to the tension and drama within the story, making the environment of the Glade even more perilous and unpredictable. However, some critics have noted that his character could have been explored more deeply to provide additional insight into the psychological effects of the maze^[1][5].

Legacy

Ben’s character has an enduring appeal as a symbol of the dangers and consequences within the maze. His story serves as a reminder of the harsh conditions and the extreme measures taken by the Gladers to survive.

In contemporary discussions, characters like Ben are often cited as examples of how dystopian narratives explore themes of control, survival, and the human psyche. His character has inspired other works and character archetypes in dystopian fiction, highlighting the importance of exploring the darker aspects of human nature in such genres.