Parallels In Breaking Bad And Better Call Saul: The Hank Figure And His Impact

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Post on Apr 22, 2025

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Parallels in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul: The Hank Schrader Figure and His Impact

The enduring success of Breaking Bad and its prequel, Better Call Saul, stems partly from their intricate character development and interwoven narratives. While many characters evolve and intersect across both shows, the figure of Hank Schrader stands out as a pivotal force, shaping the trajectory of both Walter White and Jimmy McGill/Saul Goodman. His presence, even in absence, casts a long shadow, highlighting the thematic parallels and contrasting impacts across both series.

Hank Schrader: The Lawman in the Crosshairs

In Breaking Bad, Hank Schrader, DEA agent and Walter White's brother-in-law, represents the unwavering force of law and order, constantly circling Heisenberg. His relentless pursuit of the meth kingpin fuels much of the central conflict, creating a compelling cat-and-mouse game. Hank's unwavering dedication, though ultimately tragic, is a crucial element of the show's dramatic tension. His pride, his stubbornness, and his relentless pursuit of justice, ironically, contribute to his downfall and become a catalyst for Walt's increasingly ruthless actions.

The Ripple Effect in Better Call Saul

While not a central character in Better Call Saul, Hank Schrader's presence looms large, primarily through his relationship with his partner, Steven Gomez, and his indirect influence on Jimmy McGill's transformation into Saul Goodman. We see glimpses of Hank’s established persona through Gomez’s interactions, offering a consistent reminder of the wider world beyond Saul’s immediate sphere. This serves to emphasize the looming threat of the DEA and the potential consequences of Saul's actions, which indirectly contribute to the escalating stakes of the prequel.

Contrasting Impacts: The DEA's Reach

• Breaking Bad: Hank's impact is direct and devastating. His investigation, fuelled by his unwavering sense of justice, leads to devastating consequences, not only for Walt but for Hank himself. His death serves as a pivotal turning point, unleashing Walt's full capacity for violence and solidifying his descent into darkness.

• Better Call Saul: Hank's influence is more subtle but equally significant. His existence serves as a constant reminder of the consequences of involvement in the criminal underworld. It is a looming threat, shaping Saul's decisions and contributing to the inherent tension throughout the series. The occasional mention of his name and the portrayal of Gomez's cautious approach serve as powerful narrative devices, subtly reinforcing the ever-present danger.

Themes of Justice, Pride, and Downfall

Both series explore the themes of justice, pride, and the eventual downfall that often accompanies hubris. Hank's character embodies these themes perfectly. His unwavering pursuit of justice, fueled by his professional pride, ultimately leads to his tragic demise. This mirrors, to a certain extent, the fates of Walter White and even Jimmy McGill, demonstrating the destructive power of unchecked ambition and the devastating consequences of crossing the line.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Tension

The figure of Hank Schrader transcends his mere presence within the narrative. He serves as a powerful symbol of the law, a constant reminder of the consequences of criminal activity, and a pivotal catalyst for the dramatic events in both Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. His legacy, even in death, continues to resonate, shaping the characters' choices and driving the narrative forward in both critically acclaimed series. The parallels and contrasting impacts highlight the masterful storytelling and intricate connections between these two iconic shows.