The Witcher Season 2 introduces a number of new characters into the fold. While the elves make an interesting entry, they’re not exactly villains, but antagonists. The Netflix adaptation explores the fantasy world into darker depths. Clearly, not all characters act as main protagonists. In fact, some characters merely play a supporting role. For instance, the elves, namely Filavandrel (Tom Canton) and Francesca Findabair (Mecia Simson).

The Reason Behind Elves’ Cruelty 

Throughout history, the elves have endured harsh treatment from superior races. This sometimes justifies their ruthless behavior. Humans have not always been sympathetic towards elves. Hence, they’re distrustful of humans. Humankind’s dismissive nature has led the elves to believe that the race is incapable of genuinely caring about anyone except their own. The Witcher Season 2 particularly displays this trait when Francesca’s newborn baby is murdered. 

The elves have grounds enough to believe that the King of Redania was responsible for the death of Francesca’s baby. And now they seek vengeance, so they mercilessly kill all the Redanian babies they can find. While the act is unforgivable, the elves aren’t entirely evil people. They possess the ability to care about others. So, what explains their harshness? 

Apparently, it would make sense to reflect on the show’s theme. Which says, the worst monsters are often the ones we create. While the elves are not inherently bad, they might act on impulse when things go south. Like Renfri (Emma Appleton) in The Witcher Season 1, the elves do not consider themselves villains. They justified their need for retribution with all the years of oppression. And just like Renfri, the viewers take a minute to understand the elves’ perspective, regardless of their actions. 

The True Intentions Of Elves

The Witcher Season 2 sheds light on the brutal past of the elves. Even though their actions are cold-blooded, their sufferings cover up for the most part. In this regard, the unlucky narrative of the elves aligns with that of Renfri. It is true that their, unjust past does not justify their present barbarity. But it allows viewers to give them a second chance. All they want is to live without fear, and be treated with equality.

Like Renfri clashing with Geralt in The Witcher Season 1, the elves are not really villainous. They are wrong sometimes, and circumstances lead them to take extreme actions. But they only ask for peace and kindness in a brutal world ruled by humans. It is unfortunate that cruelty has turned them into savage, unkind beings. 

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The Witcher Season 2 shows elves to be skillful and capable. But the only strike when its they are struck first. After Francesca and Filavandrel’s newborn baby is ruthlessly murdered, the elves are enraged. And they proceed to attack on impulse.

Of course, prior to the fateful deed, they had formed an alliance and Fringilla Vigo (Mimi Ndiweni). The alliance gave birth to a friendship between Francesca and Fringilla. However, when the baby was born, the elves no longer intended to work and fight for Nilfgaard. This caused a dent in Francesca’s friendship with Fringilla. Once upon a time, the two seemed to be satisfied with their arrangement.

The Future Of The Elves In The Witcher

The elves are now aware that Ciri (Freya Allan) has Elder Blood coursing through her veins. It is likely that they will seek her out in The Witcher Season 3. Some viewers might want Ciri to remain safe, and stay in the company of Geralt and Yennefer. But some might side with the elves and root for their better future. This divided interest is what makes the tale of The Witcher so engrossing. While audiences might disapprove of certain characters, their history allows them to find reason in their actions.

A villain does not possess any relatable traits. But the elves in The Witcher Season 2 have suffered, and are empathetic. They carry important traits like a sense of loyalty. Which distinguishes them from villains. Thus, the elves might act as rivals in the fantasy series, but they are not essentially villains.