Killed by Death (Buffy the Vampire Slayer)

Killed by Death is the 18th episode of the second season of the American television series Buffy the Vampire Slayer. This episode, which originally aired on March 3, 1998, was written by Rob Des Hotel and Dean Batali, and directed by Deran Sarafian. The series, created by Joss Whedon, follows the life of Buffy Summers, a teenage girl chosen by fate to battle against vampires, demons, and other supernatural foes. She is supported in her battles by the "Scooby Gang," which includes her watcher Rupert Giles and her friends Xander Harris, Willow Rosenberg, and Cordelia Chase.

Plot

In "Killed by Death," Buffy is hospitalized with a severe flu and discovers that children in the hospital are being preyed upon by a demon known as Der Kindestod. The demon, invisible to healthy adults, feeds on the life force of sick children. Buffy, weakened but determined, must confront her own childhood trauma associated with hospitals and the death of her cousin Celia, in order to fight and defeat Der Kindestod, saving the remaining children.

Themes

This episode delves into themes of vulnerability, the fear of hospitals, and the confrontation with past traumas. Buffy's illness represents a physical manifestation of vulnerability, challenging her usual role as the strong protector. The hospital setting evokes a universal fear of illness and mortality, while the character of Der Kindestod serves as a literal boogeyman, preying on the weak and innocent. Buffy's confrontation with her past and her overcoming of it is a significant character development moment, showcasing her resilience and courage.

Reception

"Killed by Death" received mixed reviews from critics and fans. Some praised the episode for its exploration of Buffy's character and its effective use of horror elements. Others criticized it for its monster-of-the-week format and felt it was a weaker entry in the series. Despite the mixed reviews, the episode is remembered for its creepy antagonist and its deeper exploration of the series' main character.

Cast and Characters

• Sarah Michelle Gellar as Buffy Summers
• Nicholas Brendon as Xander Harris
• Alyson Hannigan as Willow Rosenberg
• Charisma Carpenter as Cordelia Chase
• Anthony Stewart Head as Rupert Giles
• Kristine Sutherland as Joyce Summers
• Richard Herd as Dr. Stanley Backer
• Willie Garson as Security Guard
• Juanita Jennings as Dr. Wilkinson
• Andrew Ducote as Ryan
• James Jude Courtney as Der Kindestod

Production

The concept for "Killed by Death" stemmed from Joss Whedon's desire to explore Buffy's vulnerability and her fears stemming from her childhood. The episode's monster, Der Kindestod, was designed to evoke childhood fears of monsters and the unknown. The hospital setting was chosen for its inherent atmosphere of fear and vulnerability, serving as the perfect backdrop for the episode's themes.

Cultural References

"Killed by Death" includes references to various cultural elements, including the Grim Reaper and boogeyman myths, reflecting the universal fear of death and the unknown. The episode's title is a play on the phrase "killed by death," which is often used humorously to state the obvious cause of death.

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