Why Rick Losing His Hand is Essential to Walking Dead's Message
A series like The Walking Dead is filled with disturbing and violent moments, but one unforgettable sacrifice stands apart. And even if the TV version of the story chose not to show the shocking moment where Rick Grimes' lost his right, this development has an unexpected metaphorical significance that, no matter the meaning, embodies the Walking Dead's message more clearly than any other.
The events leading up to the scene are simple enough: in Issue #28 of the Walking Dead comic series, Rick is captured by The Governor, who soon demands to know the location of Rick's camp. Rick refuses and, as a punishment, the Governor cuts off Rick's right hand. This was a major change in Rick's character that, to Robert Kirkman's dismay, the Walking Dead TV show chose not to adapt. The loss of Rick's hand is more than just a physical handicap: It adds a layer of stress and helplessness that is only amplified by the apocalyptic setting. The fact that Rick continues to lead despite the new handicap does so much more than just demonstrate the strength of his character.
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The Walking Dead is no stranger to delving into human reactions to trauma. Yet, this traumatic event also has an unprecedented level of metaphorical significance. In the beginning, Rick does become more dependent on others while he regains his strength; another important aspect of the Walking Dead which champions essential interpersonal bonds in a new hostile environment. Although Rick loses his physical right hand, he promptly goes on to have several literal right-hand men through the series, including Tyreese, Abraham, and Andrea. While Rick survives and helps create a better world, he's
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