fictional characters are facets of larger works, with specific functions beyond their actions/personalities. they’re not real people. a “good” character may still “deserve” a tragic ending in a larger narrative’s context if that’s what overarching symbolism and themes require
this is especially true when considering foils—it’s why LXC, despite being a character who strives to do good, is narratively punished. If we read him as Lan Zhan’s foil, we see two characters who highlight one another’s traits: LZ acts, LXC waits. One is active, one is passive.
In real life, passivity and waiting and giving people multiple chances is not inherently bad. But the story CQL tells overtly supports active behavior, like standing up for beliefs in the face of adversity and living without regret. LZ embodies those themes and is rewarded.
If we consider LXC as LZ’s foil, it’s evident that in the context of CQL’s framework and themes, his passivity and preference to not know the truth (traits are revealed via dialogue, narrative parallels, and visual cues) are classic tragic flaws.
His passivity isn’t just related to JGY. It’s evident even in the expression he gives when he disagrees with something but makes no move to confront it. As Lan Zhan is punished in the /plot/ for standing by his core values, he is later rewarded by the /show/ for doing so.
As LXC is revered in the /plot/ as someone who is good, and patient, and ethical, he is punished by the /show/ for repeatedly standing on the sidelines to “wait and see”. that punishment serves to directly highlight the show’s core exploration of what “goodness” truly is.
And so it’s not so simple as hating LXC, or thinking he did nothing wrong, or making fun of him or defending him. He’s not a real person. His role in the show is important and interesting, but it is still symbolic in nature and should be examined as such.
LXC and LZ are especially interesting given their background of intense rules. In the end, LXC culminates as a tragic figure whose fear of making the “wrong” decision leads consistent passivity. LZ, in contrast, overcomes his sect’s rigid morality to stand by his own values
And on this basis, if the show rewards LZ, it must punish LXC for narrative and thematic impact. While he is indeed manipulated and lied to, he carries classic tragic flaws which emphasize his downfall.
That’s why it’s painful to watch his demise—he’s not just a blameless character who is relentlessly beat upon. His fatal flaws contribute to his culmination as a character. His arc abides by classic tragic structure—especially since he /does/ want to be good.
And that’s why his character is interesting and realistic. It’s why his arc has impact and creates discussion. LXC is a really good character because he challenges conceptions of moral goodness. And we love ethical shades of gray, don’t we?
