Miguel Fernández in Money Heist

Introduction

Miguel Fernández is a significant character in the Netflix series "Money Heist" (original title: "La Casa de Papel"), although he is not one of the main robbers. He is introduced as a hostage during the heist on the Bank of Spain, specifically as an intern in the Operations and Information Systems department. Miguel’s character adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, highlighting the human element among the hostages and their varied reactions to the intense situation. This article will delve into Miguel’s backstory, his role in the series, his character analysis, the themes and symbolism associated with him, his cultural impact, critical reception, and his lasting legacy.

Role in the Series

Miguel Fernández is first seen in Part 3 of the series, during the heist on the Bank of Spain. He is one of the many hostages taken by the robbers, led by the Professor and Palermo. Unlike some of the other hostages, Miguel is portrayed as nervous and cautious, often trying to avoid any actions that might put him or others in danger. Despite his fear, he occasionally shows bursts of bravery, particularly when he tries to discourage other hostages from wearing the bulletproof vests provided by the robbers, fearing they might be used as human shields ^[2].

Miguel’s interactions are mostly with other hostages, including Amanda, for whom he has a crush. This personal dynamic adds a human touch to his character, showing that even in the midst of a high-stakes heist, personal feelings and relationships can still play a significant role. Throughout the series, Miguel remains a background figure but his reactions and decisions reflect the broader tensions and fears experienced by the hostages.

Character Analysis

Miguel Fernández is characterized by his cautious and risk-averse nature. According to personality analyses, he can be typed as an ISFJ (Introverted, Sensing, Feeling, Judging) with an Enneagram type of 6w5, indicating he is a loyal and hardworking individual who values stability and security ^[3].

His motivations are largely driven by a desire to survive the ordeal without harm. Miguel’s strengths include his ability to think critically in stressful situations, as seen when he advises against wearing the bulletproof vests. However, his flaws include his tendency to be overly cautious, which sometimes prevents him from taking decisive actions.

Despite his relatively minor role, Miguel’s character serves as a contrast to the more daring and rebellious nature of the robbers. His reactions highlight the human cost and emotional toll of being a hostage in such a high-pressure situation, making him a relatable and sympathetic character to audiences.

Themes and Symbolism

Miguel Fernández embodies several themes that are central to "Money Heist." One of the primary themes is the human response to crisis and the varied ways people react under pressure. Miguel’s cautious nature contrasts with the bold and rebellious actions of the robbers, illustrating the diverse human reactions to extreme situations.

The series also explores the theme of resistance and revolution, symbolized by the red jumpsuits and Salvador Dalí masks worn by the robbers. While Miguel is not directly involved in this aspect, his presence as a hostage underscores the impact of such actions on ordinary people. The red jumpsuits, which symbolize resistance and national pride, serve as a backdrop to Miguel’s story, highlighting the broader societal implications of the heist ^[4].

Cultural Impact

Miguel Fernández, though not a central character, contributes to the cultural significance of "Money Heist" by representing the everyday person caught in extraordinary circumstances. His character resonates with audiences who can identify with his fears and reactions.

The show’s global popularity has made characters like Miguel, who might otherwise be overlooked, significant in the broader cultural discourse. Fans appreciate the depth and realism added by such characters, who humanize the narrative and make it more relatable.

Critical Reception

Critics and audiences have generally praised the show for its well-developed characters, including the hostages. Miguel’s character, while not the focus of critical analysis, is seen as part of the show’s strength in portraying a diverse range of human responses to the heist.

There have been no major controversies surrounding Miguel’s character, and his portrayal is generally viewed as realistic and empathetic. The show’s ability to make even minor characters like Miguel feel fully realized is a testament to its strong writing and character development.

Legacy

Miguel Fernández’s legacy in "Money Heist" lies in his contribution to the show’s nuanced portrayal of human behavior under stress. His character serves as a reminder that even in the most dramatic and intense situations, ordinary people with ordinary fears and motivations are involved.

The character of Miguel Fernández has not directly inspired other works or character archetypes, but he is part of the broader tapestry of characters that make "Money Heist" a compelling and realistic series. His enduring appeal is in his relatability and the human touch he brings to the narrative.