From the very first episode, viewers were captivated by the mysterious figure of Franklin, a name that quickly became synonymous with the brutal world of the 100. His presence looms large over the series, driving narratives and challenging the very foundations of the Ark's society. Understanding why Franklin is on the 100 requires looking beyond his initial role as a simple antagonist and examining the complex themes of survival, legacy, and the cyclical nature of violence that the show relentlessly explores.
The Weight of the Past: Arkadia's Hidden Truths
Franklin's introduction as the Chancellor of Arkadia is not just a plot point; it is the key to unlocking the show's deeper commentary. He represents the old guard, the institutional power that the original 100 rebels against. His authority is rooted in the very system the delinquents fled, making him a living embodiment of the oppression they sought to escape. This creates an immediate and intense conflict, positioning Franklin not merely as a villain, but as a necessary obstacle that forces the protagonists to define their own values and governance.
Legacy and Lineage: The Echoes of Marcus Kane
To truly grasp Franklin's significance, one must acknowledge his direct connection to the series' other central figure, Marcus Kane. As Kane's son, Franklin carries the literal and metaphorical weight of his father's sins and sacrifices. His presence on the 100 is a direct confrontation with this legacy. He inherits not just his father's position, but also his philosophy, forcing him to walk a similar path of difficult, often ruthless, decisions for the perceived greater good. This father-son dynamic adds a profound layer of personal tragedy and inevitability to the story.
The Engine of Conflict and Character Development
Franklin is the catalyst for some of the most pivotal and emotionally charged moments in the series. His policies, such as the stringent rationing and harsh labor requirements in Arkadia, create the conditions for the major uprising led by Bellamy and the 100. This conflict is essential, as it tests the limits of the delinquents' ideals and pushes characters like Clarke and Bellamy to their breaking points. Without Franklin's rigid rule, the show loses a crucial antagonist that drives character evolution and raises the stakes of the survival narrative.
His governance provides a stark contrast to the Delinquents' initial anarchic freedom.
He forces characters to compromise their morals for the sake of security.
His actions directly lead to the formation of stronger alliances and deeper betrayals.
He serves as a constant reminder of the cost of rebuilding civilization.
Survivalism vs. Idealism: The Necessary Monster
The 100 series constantly explores the tension between idealism and the harsh realities of survival on a ruined Earth. Franklin embodies the idealist who has accepted the monstrous compromises required to keep a society functioning. He believes that the suffering imposed by Arkadia is a necessary evil to ensure the survival of the human race. This utilitarian worldview clashes violently with the more romantic ideals of the delinquents, who believe in a more humane path. Franklin’s presence ensures this ideological battle remains at the forefront of the drama.
A Cautionary Tale of Power and Corruption
Throughout the series, Franklin undergoes a significant transformation, evolving from a cold, calculating politician into a more complex and, at times, sympathetic figure. This arc serves as a powerful cautionary tale about the corrupting nature of power. Isolated on the hostile Earth, burdened by the expectations of his people and the legacy of his father, Franklin's descent into a more authoritarian ruler feels tragically inevitable. His journey highlights how good intentions can be warped by the very systems one tries to control.
