Walt, the main character of the popular TV show “Breaking Bad,” had a complex relationship with his former student and partner, Jesse Pinkman. Over the course of the show’s five seasons, their relationship evolved from one of mentor and student to one of mutual distrust and resentment. While there were moments where Walt appeared to care about Jesse, his actions ultimately showed that his own self-interest and desire for power were his top priorities.
At the beginning of the show, Walt and Jesse had a somewhat paternal relationship. Walt, a high school chemistry teacher, saw potential in Jesse and decided to take him under his wing as a partner in the drug trade. Walt cared about Jesse’s safety and well-being, often trying to protect him from the dangers of their illegal activities. However, as the show progressed, Walt’s priorities shifted, and his concern for Jesse became less of a priority.
One notable example of Walt’s apparent concern for Jesse came in the season three episode “Full Measure.” In this episode, Jesse is in danger from a rival drug dealer and Walt helps him by killing the dealer’s henchman. Walt makes it clear that he does not want Jesse to be harmed and is willing to take extreme measures to protect him. However, this act is ultimately done out of self-preservation, as Walt knows that Jesse is integral to his own plans for power and control.
Another example of Walt’s apparent concern for Jesse comes in the season five episode “Confessions.” In this episode, Walt tells Jesse that he was not responsible for poisoning Brock, Jesse’s former girlfriend’s son. He also attempts to convince Jesse to stay with him and continue their partnership, saying that he cares about him like a son. However, it is later revealed that Walt was lying about not poisoning Brock and that his concern for Jesse was again primarily self-serving, as he needed Jesse to continue working with him in order to carry out his plan for revenge against his enemies.
Despite these moments of apparent concern for Jesse, Walt’s actions throughout the show show that his true priorities lie with himself and his own goals. He lies to Jesse numerous times, manipulates him for his own gain, and even puts his life in danger on multiple occasions. In the end, Walt’s actions lead to Jesse suffering numerous traumas, including being imprisoned, tortured, and forced to kill people against his will.
In conclusion, while there were moments where Walt appeared to care about Jesse, his actions ultimately showed that his own self-interest and desire for power were his top priorities. Walt’s manipulation and betrayal of Jesse led to the deterioration of their relationship and the ultimate downfall of both characters.