Who Are You (Buffy The Vampire Slayer)

Who Are You is the sixteenth episode of the fourth season of the American television series Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Written and directed by series creator Joss Whedon, it originally aired on the WB Television Network on February 29, 2000. The episode is a significant part of the series' continuity, exploring themes of identity and redemption. It follows the events of the previous episode, "This Year's Girl", where Faith Lehane, a rogue Slayer, switches bodies with Buffy Summers, the series' protagonist, using a mystical device created by the series' recurring villain, Mayor Richard Wilkins.

Plot Summary[edit | edit source]

The episode begins with Faith, in Buffy's body, exploring her new identity and enjoying the freedom it brings. She flirts with Buffy's friends and even goes on a date with Buffy's love interest, Riley Finn, who is unaware of the body swap. Meanwhile, the real Buffy, trapped in Faith's body, is captured by the Watchers' Council special operations team, who are unaware of the body switch and believe her to be Faith.

As Faith continues to exploit Buffy's life, she begins to experience the positive aspects of Buffy's relationships and the sense of belonging she has never felt before. This leads to a moral awakening in Faith, who starts to feel guilt and remorse for her past actions. The turning point comes when she saves a group of hostages from a vampire attack, realizing the satisfaction that comes from doing good.

The climax of the episode occurs when Buffy, having escaped the Watchers' Council, confronts Faith. After a fierce battle, they manage to reverse the body swap using the same mystical device. Faith, now back in her own body, flees, leaving Buffy to deal with the aftermath of her actions.

Themes and Analysis[edit | edit source]

"Who Are You" delves into themes of identity, redemption, and the nature of the self. By placing Faith in Buffy's life, the episode explores the idea that people can change when given the right circumstances. Faith's journey from villain to antihero highlights the potential for redemption and the complexity of human nature.

The episode also examines the concept of the self and how it is shaped by relationships and actions. Faith's experience as Buffy allows her to see herself from a different perspective, ultimately leading to her moral awakening. This theme is further explored through the reactions of Buffy's friends and family, who sense that something is off with "Buffy", demonstrating how our identities are also constructed through the perceptions of others.

Reception[edit | edit source]

"Who Are You" was critically acclaimed for its writing, acting, and thematic depth. Sarah Michelle Gellar and Eliza Dushku were praised for their performances, particularly their ability to mimic each other's mannerisms and speech patterns. The episode is considered a standout of the series, showcasing Whedon's skill in blending action, drama, and character development.

See Also[edit | edit source]

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