Introduction
“13 Reasons Why” is a teen drama series that premiered on Netflix in 2017 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. The show revolves around the story of Hannah Baker, a teenager who takes her own life, leaving behind a set of tapes that explains the reasons behind her decision. One of the main characters, Clay Jensen, is tasked with listening to the tapes, taking the audience on a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and tragedy. This article explores 13 reasons why Clay Jensen’s character is an essential part of the show, examining the impact of the character on mental health awareness among the young audience.
Doing a Character Analysis of Clay Jensen
Clay Jensen is a high school student who was close to Hannah Baker before her suicide. He is portrayed as a shy and introverted character who is struggling with the grief of losing someone he loved. Throughout the show, Clay becomes more confident and assertive as he tries to unearth the truth about what happened to Hannah.
Clay’s character is essential to the overall message of the show. He serves as the audience’s eyes and ears, taking them on a journey of self-discovery, as he learns to understand the events leading up to Hannah’s death, and the role he played in it. Through Clay, the audience is given a glimpse of the devastating impact of bullying, sexual assault, and mental health issues on a vulnerable teenager.
Impact of “13 Reasons Why” on Teen Mental Health Awareness
The show’s focus on mental health and the impact of suicide has raised awareness on the topic among the young audience. Mental health experts have praised the show’s efforts to spark conversations about suicide and the role that friends, family, and educators can play in preventing it.
However, the show has also faced significant criticism for its graphic depiction of suicide and the portrayal of mental health issues. Critics argue that the show’s sensational approach to the topic may lead to copycat behavior in vulnerable viewers. Some mental health experts have advised against watching the show or, at the very least, to watch it with adult supervision and to engage in conversations about the disturbing content.
Examination of the Use of Flashbacks in “13 Reasons Why” with Clay Jensen as the Focal Point
The show uses flashbacks to show the audience events leading up to Hannah’s death, allowing them to see through her eyes and understand the circumstances that led her to take her own life. Clay Jensen becomes the focal point of these flashbacks, as he listens to the tapes and tries to piece together the truth.
Clay’s flashbacks are significant because they reveal his character’s struggles with anxiety, depression, and guilt over his actions, which contribute to his growth and self-discovery throughout the show. The use of flashbacks is an effective storytelling tool, allowing the audience to see the full picture of what happened while keeping them hooked on the storyline. However, some critics argue that the use of flashbacks may cause confusion and disrupt the show’s pacing.
Discussion of the Music and Soundtrack Choices in “13 Reasons Why” as it Relates to Clay Jensen’s Character Development
The show’s soundtrack is a critical element of its emotional impact, with carefully selected songs and musical pieces used to complement the storyline. Clay Jensen’s character is closely linked with the music used throughout the show, with the soundtrack often tied to his emotional journey and growth.
The use of music emphasizes the emotional impact of certain scenes, helping to engage the audience while also creating a powerful emotional connection. Throughout the show, music serves as a catalyst for Clay’s character, helping him process his emotions and connect with the people around him.
Representation of High School Friendships and Relationships in “13 Reasons Why,” with a Focus on Clay Jensen’s Journey
The show’s portrayal of high school relationships and friendships has been a topic of debate among critics and audiences. Some argue that the show portrays an accurate depiction of the complex relationships that exist in high school, while others criticize its stereotyping and lack of nuance.
Clay’s relationships with Hannah, and the other characters, are central to his journey of self-discovery and growth. His friendships with Tony, Skye, and Jessica, evolve throughout the show, leading to emotional moments of connection and reflection. However, the show’s portrayal of Clay’s romantic relationships, with Hannah and later with Skye, are criticized for their lack of realism and the tendency to glorify toxic and possessive behavior.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Clay Jensen’s character is an essential part of the show, “13 Reasons Why.” Through his journey of self-discovery, the show explores important themes, such as mental health, bullying, and the complexity of relationships and friendships in high school. While the show has faced criticism for its portrayal of sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide, it has also raised awareness and sparked important conversations among its young audience.
The impact of Clay Jensen and the show’s overall message cannot be underestimated. It has helped to create a cultural change in the way society views and discusses mental health, bringing much-needed attention to the issue. The show has also sparked a broader discussion about the role of popular media in shaping young viewers’ perspectives on sensitive topics.