Reader’s Question:
I have a question about the definition of a “red herring” in storytelling. I’m looking for responses from those who have seen both “The Promised Neverland” and “Harry Potter.” In “The Promised Neverland,” there’s a character named Connie who is killed by a demon early on. In “Harry Potter,”
there’s Cedric, who is killed by Voldemort. Do you think these characters qualify as “red herrings”? 1. Yes 2. No 3. Other Please include your reasoning. I personally believe they do qualify as red herrings. Both characters are killed almost instantly and offer no resistance, and the enemies that defeat them are powerful, which I think meets the criteria for a red herring. However, when I asked ChatGPT about this before, it said they are not red herrings. According to ChatGPT, characters like the old man with a power level of 5 from “Dragon Ball” or the “Psycho Steak” character from “Demon Slayer” are considered red herrings, but Connie and Cedric are not. It explained that Connie and Cedric’s deaths hold significant meaning for the protagonists and the readers, while the deaths of the other characters are portrayed in a more comedic way. I still believe Connie and Cedric are clear examples of red herrings. What do you all think? Do you believe ChatGPT is wrong?
Exploring Red Herrings in Anime: Connie and Cedric
Hey there, fellow anime and book lovers! So I’ve been diving deep into some discussions about storytelling tropes, and one topic that has me intrigued is the concept of a “red herring.” You know, those characters or plot points that seem like they’re going to be a big deal but end up leading us off the scent of what’s really happening? It’s a classic trick in storytelling, and I recently got caught up in a debate about whether Connie from The Promised Neverland and Cedric Diggory from Harry Potter fit into this category.
First things first, let’s break down what a red herring really is. Traditionally, it’s a misleading clue designed to divert attention from the real issue. Think of it like a magician’s trick—while everyone’s focused on the flash of the left hand, the real magic is happening on the right. So, with that in mind, when Connie and Cedric bite the dust, do they really lead us astray, or do their deaths serve a more meaningful purpose?
Connie’s Fate in The Promised Neverland
Alright, let’s start with Connie. If you’ve seen The Promised Neverland, you know this character gets taken out pretty early. I remember watching that scene and feeling my stomach drop. It’s shocking! Her death isn’t just a shock for shock’s sake; it sets the tone for the entire series. It highlights the cruel world these kids are living in and solidifies the stakes right from the get-go.
Now, some might argue that Connie is a red herring because her death distracts from the bigger picture—like the overarching threat of the demons. But I’d argue she’s much more than that. Connie’s demise serves to propel the protagonists into action, showcasing the real danger they face, and it becomes a catalyst for their fight for survival. That’s not just a red herring. That’s a plot device that enriches the story!
Cedric’s Tragic End in Harry Potter
Now, let’s shift gears and talk about Cedric Diggory. Ah, Cedric! The golden boy. His death in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire was another gut punch moment. Just when you think everything is going to be okay, bam! He gets taken out by Voldemort. Here’s the thing: while his death is tragic and shocking, it also serves a significant purpose.
Cedric’s death isn’t just there to highlight Voldemort’s evil; it deepens Harry’s character and emphasizes the reality of death and sacrifice in this magical world. The idea that anyone, even a beloved character, can fall victim to a greater evil? That’s heavy stuff. Does this qualify Cedric as a red herring? I don’t think so. His death carries weight—it matters to Harry’s arc and the series as a whole.
Making Sense of the Debate
So, why do some folks—like the user who posted the question—still see Connie and Cedric as red herrings? I think a lot of this comes down to interpretation. If you view a character’s death solely as a means to show the strength of the enemy, then sure, you might lean towards labeling them as red herrings. But if you see these moments as transformational events for the main characters, then they cease to be just distractions.
It’s kind of like asking if a roller coaster ride is just about the drops or if it’s about the experience as a whole. Sure, those drops are thrilling, but they also build up to the anticipation and excitement of the ride. It’s the same with Connie and Cedric. Their deaths contribute to the overall emotional journey of the protagonists, making them pivotal moments rather than mere tricks.
Comparing to True Red Herrings
Now, when we think about what a “true” red herring looks like, let’s consider the examples that ChatGPT mentioned—like the old man with a power level of 5 from Dragon Ball or the “Psycho Steak” character from Demon Slayer. These characters exist primarily to mislead the audience or serve as comedic relief without impacting the plot significantly. They pop in, do their thing, and poof! They’re gone, leaving behind no emotional residue.
In contrast, Connie and Cedric linger in the hearts of fans. Their deaths resonate and remind us of the stakes at play, not just as plot devices but as catalysts for character growth. They push the story forward and deepen our emotional connection to the narratives. Can you imagine The Promised Neverland or Harry Potter without those pivotal moments? They would be totally different stories!
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, while I totally get where the debate is coming from, I personally side with the argument that Connie and Cedric are not red herrings. They are integral to their respective stories, serving to drive home the themes of danger, sacrifice, and the harsh realities of their worlds. So next time you’re watching an anime or reading a book, pay attention to how character deaths influence the story—are they serving a greater purpose or just a distraction? It’s a fascinating lens through which to view storytelling!
What do you think? Are Connie and Cedric red herrings in your eyes, or do you see the deeper significance in their fates? Let me know your thoughts in the comments. Happy watching and reading!
