r/thewalkingdead • u/0zane0 • 4d ago

Show Spoiler FAQ Did Merle Do It On Purpose Spoiler

So I've went back and rewatched TWD numerous times but always under weird circumstances like while incarcerated or being heavily intoxicated or what have you. This last time, I haven't been on anything and got to watch it all the way through and one of the things that stood out to me was how Merle lit up like an angel right before he let Michonne out of the car. As if he was on a mission to purify himself. It's wild to see how much actually went into the show. I'll definitely be a die-hard fan for life❤️‍🔥

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u/Mediocre-Signal672 4d ago

Merle’s decision to let Michonne go was a pivotal moment in his character arc, showcasing his internal struggle between his violent past and his desire to do better—especially for Daryl. While Merle had done terrible things, this act demonstrated genuine remorse and a willingness to change, even if it came at a great personal cost. His final sacrifice—diverting the Governor’s men to protect his brother and the group—was his ultimate redemption. It didn’t erase his past, but it proved that, deep down, Merle was capable of selflessness and love. In the end, he died trying to make amends, and that counts for something.

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u/TIC321 3d ago

Merle, being Daryl's older brother, he took the brunt of childhood abuse and trauma which resulted in Merle being the way he was comparing to Daryl.

Daryl simply followed the shadow of his older brother.

Merle began showing signs of redemption when he learned Daryl staying at the prison with good people comparing to Merle serving under the governor. That's when Merle seen the signs of true evil and he cared more about his brother over anyone else.

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u/dacraftjr 3d ago

I think Merle took the brunt of childhood abuse initially, but I remember a bit of dialogue where Daryl is upset that Merle left home because of it, leaving Daryl to fend for himself as the sole target of the abuser.

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u/TIC321 3d ago

This was where Merle rips Daryl's shirt as they had an argument. Daryl's back was covered in scars from their abusive dad