A more faithful translation--
This analysis of Tara, the very controversial character regarding her role in the Scooby Gang, was put together by Seb.
What is the role of Tara?
An important role, in my opinion.
I shall deconstruct it in three parts:
1. First from the point of view of her position in the series.
It is the Tara/Willow relationship that changes the view of a certain number of observers about the series.
It is from this that a higher ambition on the part of the writers and especially Joss Whedon was born. Besides, it's not by chance that the arrival of Tara is to be found in "Hush", the first truly artistically ambitious episode by Whedon, notably from the point of view of its realization. Up to this point, the Whedon episodes, even if they did appear at strategic points during the seasons, were not truly different from the others.
Joss will re-use Tara in a big way in his second episode "Restless", it too being outstanding in the series.
2. Then from the psychological point of view and the evolution of the characters.
Without simplifying a transition that isn't really brutal, one could nevertheless consider that the first three seasons revolved around adolescent fears, while the three following ones were concerned with the fears of the adult world.
In this context, Tara is the character belonging entirely to this second part, contrary to Giles (through Ripper in Seasons 2 & 3) and Joyce (in "Band Candy"). Tara has no connection to the adolescent world.
She is autonomous in relation to the adults.
Whereas from Season 4 the writers insist on the individuality of the characters in breaking the binding ties of the Scooby Gang, Tara arrives already alone, without a group. She is therefore ahead of the other characters right from the start. She shows the way towards autonomy, she acts as a sort of guide that will allow them to pass from a bound group into solid individuality.
3. Finally from a metaphorical point of view:
Tara is therefore the character that guides toward the adult world, where Giles was the protective figure during their adolescence. It is her who guides Willow toward personal realization (cf. the beautful speeches in "New Moon Rising"). It is again her who understands who is who in "Who Are You?". It is always her who, symbolically, leads them toward who they are, toward their interiority in "Restless".
There are many other examples still to be spoiled.....
My goal is not to make those who don't appreciate her love her, but I believe sincerely that one can perfectly demonstrate the importance of her role for the writers.
Hemiola, at your service...
