Stranger Things is a popular science fiction-horror series that has captured the hearts of audiences around the world. Set in the 1980s in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, the show follows a group of friends as they navigate supernatural mysteries and government conspiracies. One of the show’s most beloved characters is Eddie, a nerdy and awkward classmate of the group who becomes friends with Dustin. In the second season of the show, Eddie’s fate takes a tragic turn when he is diagnosed with a rare and deadly disease called epidermolysis bullosa. In this essay, we will explore in detail what happened to Eddie in Stranger Things, from his illness to his ultimate sacrifice.
Eddie’s Illness
Epidermolysis bullosa is a rare genetic disorder that causes the skin to be extremely fragile and prone to blistering and tearing. In Eddie’s case, the disease is so severe that he is forced to wear gloves and long-sleeved shirts at all times to protect his skin. The show portrays Eddie’s struggle to cope with his condition in a poignant and realistic way, showing the physical and emotional toll it takes on him. Despite his illness, Eddie remains a loyal and dependable friend to the group, using his knowledge of science fiction and fantasy to help them in their adventures.
In addition to the physical challenges of his illness, Eddie also faces discrimination and bullying from his classmates. The show highlights the stigma and ignorance surrounding rare diseases, and the impact it can have on those who live with them. Eddie’s struggle to fit in and be accepted is a relatable and emotional storyline, and his eventual friendship with Dustin is a testament to the power of acceptance and inclusion.
Eddie’s Friendship with Dustin
One of the highlights of the second season of Stranger Things is the friendship between Eddie and Dustin. The two bond over their shared love of science fiction and fantasy, and Eddie’s knowledge of these subjects often helps the group in their adventures. Despite his illness, Eddie is always willing to help his friends and is a valuable member of the group. His friendship with Dustin is a testament to the power of shared interests and the importance of acceptance and inclusion.
Eddie’s friendship with Dustin also highlights the theme of unlikely friendships in the show. The group is made up of a diverse range of characters, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Eddie’s inclusion in the group is a reminder that friendship can come from unexpected places, and that everyone has something valuable to contribute.
Eddie’s Sacrifice
In the final episode of the second season, Eddie makes a heroic sacrifice to save the group from a pack of Demodogs. Using his knowledge of science fiction and fantasy, Eddie creates a makeshift flamethrower, which he uses to fend off the Demodogs and allow the rest of the group to escape. In doing so, Eddie is severely burned and ultimately dies from his injuries. Eddie’s sacrifice is a poignant and emotional moment in the show, and is a testament to his bravery and selflessness.
Eddie’s sacrifice also highlights the theme of heroism in the show. The group is constantly facing danger and adversity, and each member has the opportunity to step up and be a hero in their own way. Eddie’s sacrifice is a reminder that heroism can come from unexpected places, and that even the smallest and seemingly insignificant characters can have a profound impact on a story.
The Impact of Eddie’s Fate
Despite his brief appearance in the show, Eddie’s fate has a profound impact on the characters and the audience. His illness and subsequent sacrifice are a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the time we have. Eddie’s friendship with Dustin is a testament to the power of acceptance and inclusion, and his bravery in the face of danger is an inspiration to us all. Eddie’s legacy is a reminder that even the smallest and seemingly insignificant characters can have a profound impact on a story.
Eddie’s fate also highlights the theme of mortality in the show. The characters are constantly facing danger and death, and Eddie’s death is a reminder that no one is invincible. The show explores the theme of mortality in a thoughtful and nuanced way, showing the characters grappling with loss and grief in their own ways.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Eddie’s fate in Stranger Things is a powerful example of how a well-developed character can have a lasting impact on a story. From his illness to his ultimate sacrifice, Eddie’s journey is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. His friendship with Dustin and his bravery in the face of danger are testaments to the power of inclusion and selflessness. Eddie may have been a minor character in the show, but his impact on the story and the audience is profound.
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