The Vampire Diaries Season 4, Episode 21: Unpacking Damon & Stefan’s Desperate Measures to Revive Elena’s Humanity in ‘She’s Come Undone’

The highly anticipated May 2 episode of The Vampire Diaries, titled ‘She’s Come Undone’, promises to push the boundaries of desperation and love in Mystic Falls. As Elena Gilbert, portrayed by the talented Nina Dobrev, continues her ruthless journey without her humanity, brothers Damon (Ian Somerhalder) and Stefan (Paul Wesley) Salvatore are resorting to increasingly extreme measures to bring her back from the brink. The first-look photos from this pivotal episode indicate that their patience has worn thin, and the era of ‘playing nice’ is definitively over. This episode isn’t just about compelling Elena; it’s a profound exploration of love, sacrifice, and the ethical dilemmas inherent in forcing someone to feel again, especially when their very nature as a vampire makes emotion a choice.

In a shocking and intense turn of events, the Salvatore brothers are depicted engaging in a brutal intervention, tying Elena to a chair and subjecting her to controlled bursts of direct sunlight. For vampires, exposure to sunlight is agonizing, making this a truly torturous method. While the visual of Damon and Stefan asserting such physical control over Elena might, for some fans, evoke the fervent “Ian and Nina for Fifty Shades” internet movement – fueled by the actors’ real-life chemistry and the show’s dark romantic undertones – the context here is anything but romantic. Elena’s expression in these stills is one of defiance and discomfort, not pleasure or submission. This scene underscores the grim reality of their situation: Elena is truly lost, and her closest companions are willing to inflict pain if it means saving her soul. It begs the question: how far is too far when trying to save someone you love, especially when that person seems to have no desire to be saved?

The decision by Damon and Stefan to use such harsh tactics is a testament to their profound despair. Elena, after losing her brother Jeremy, symbolically ‘switched off’ her humanity, transforming into a colder, more manipulative, and dangerously unpredictable version of herself. This emotional shutdown was her vampire coping mechanism for unbearable grief. However, for those who love her, including the Salvatore brothers, watching her descend into this uncaring state is a torment in itself. Their “brutal new approach” is born from a place of desperate love, a last-ditch effort to puncture through her emotional shield and reawaken the compassionate, empathetic Elena they know and cherish. This intervention, however morally ambiguous, highlights the depth of their commitment and the unique challenges faced by vampires who can simply choose to bypass their most fundamental emotions.

Official Description For Season 4, Episode 21: ‘She’s Come Undone’

LET’S MAKE A DEAL — Damon (Ian Somerhalder) and Stefan (Paul Wesley) try a brutal new approach to provoke Elena (Nina Dobrev) into turning her humanity back on, and Caroline (Candice Accola) is frustrated when her attempt to intervene backfires. When Elena figures out a way to call the Salvatore brothers’ bluff, they call for backup from a surprising source. Matt (Zach Roerig) gives Rebekah (Claire Holt) some unsolicited advice on her life choices, and she tries to help him in return. Caroline has a confusing and dangerous encounter with Klaus (Joseph Morgan), and Katherine (Nina Dobrev) is suspicious when Bonnie (Kat Graham) makes her an offer that she promises will benefit them both. Darnell Martin directed the episode written by Michael Narducci & Rebecca Sonnenshine (#421).

The official description of ‘She’s Come Undone’ provides further intriguing details, promising an episode packed with intense character interactions and significant plot developments. The Salvatores’ “brutal new approach” isn’t just about physical torment; it implies psychological warfare, a strategic assault on Elena’s fortified emotional defenses. Yet, Elena, even without her humanity, remains a formidable opponent. Her ability to “call the Salvatore brothers’ bluff” suggests a cunning and calculated mind, possibly even reveling in their attempts to control her. This confrontation will not be easy, and it highlights Elena’s powerful agency, even in her darkest state.

Caroline’s Frustration and a Surprising Alliance

Caroline Forbes (Candice Accola), always the most organized and morally grounded of the younger vampires, finds her attempts to intervene with Elena backfiring. This is hardly surprising, given Elena’s current state. Caroline’s method would likely involve emotional appeals and reasoned arguments, which would undoubtedly fall on deaf ears with a humanity-less Elena. Her frustration is palpable, as she grapples with the transformation of her best friend into someone unrecognizable. This unsuccessful intervention highlights the futility of conventional methods when dealing with a vampire who has effectively shut off their core self. It further emphasizes why Damon and Stefan feel compelled to adopt such extreme measures, having likely exhausted all other options.

The description teases that when Elena manages to turn the tables on Damon and Stefan, they “call for backup from a surprising source.” This particular plot point has sparked widespread speculation among fans. Given the adorable shot of Matt (Zach Roerig) included in the promotional gallery, it’s highly plausible the Salvatores will turn to Mystic Falls’ perennial “Human Band-Aid” for assistance. Matt, despite his human vulnerability, has an unwavering moral compass and a deep history with Elena, potentially offering a unique perspective or emotional leverage the brothers lack. Could his pure, untainted humanity be the key, or perhaps a painful reminder of what Elena has lost? Other possibilities for this “surprising source” could include Klaus, whose unexpected help has been sought before, or even Bonnie, despite her own struggles, if a magical solution were required. However, the mention of Matt in a prominent position suggests he will play a crucial role in this desperate endeavor.

Matt, Rebekah, and the Quest for Humanity

The episode also delves into the evolving dynamic between Matt Donovan and Rebekah Mikaelson (Claire Holt). Matt, ever the earnest and well-meaning human, offers Rebekah some “unsolicited advice on her life choices.” This interaction speaks volumes about their complicated bond. Rebekah, an Original Vampire with centuries of experience, often finds herself vulnerable and seeking a semblance of normal human connection. Matt, representing everything she can’t be, has become a confidant, and perhaps even a conscience, for her. In return, Rebekah tries to help him, implying a reciprocal exchange that deepens their mutual understanding and respect. Their storyline often serves as a poignant counterpoint to the more destructive vampire relationships, exploring the enduring appeal and struggle of humanity, a central theme of the entire series.

Klaroline: A Confusing and Dangerous Encounter

Another compelling subplot teased in ‘She’s Come Undone’ involves Caroline’s “confusing and dangerous encounter with Klaus (Joseph Morgan).” The relationship between Caroline and Klaus, affectionately dubbed “Klaroline” by fans, has been a cornerstone of the show’s romantic drama. Their chemistry is undeniable, even as their motivations and allegiances frequently clash. A “confusing” encounter could imply a mix of their undeniable attraction with their conflicting interests, perhaps related to Silas, the cure, or even Elena’s situation. The “dangerous” aspect could stem from Klaus’s unpredictable nature, a threat from an external force they must face together, or even the danger their continued connection poses to Caroline’s established life in Mystic Falls. This encounter is sure to ignite passion and fear in equal measure, leaving fans eager for the next chapter in their complex saga.

Katherine’s Suspicion and Bonnie’s Mysterious Offer

Finally, the episode description hints at a suspicious interaction between Katherine Pierce (once again played by Nina Dobrev, showcasing her incredible range) and Bonnie Bennett (Kat Graham). Katherine, the ultimate survivor and master manipulator, is understandably “suspicious when Bonnie makes her an offer that she promises will benefit them both.” Bonnie, having recently faced immense personal loss and grappled with the dark magic of Expression, is navigating a precarious path. Her motives could be pure, driven by a desire to resolve the Silas threat or protect her friends, but dealing with Katherine always comes with a high price. What could Bonnie offer the notoriously self-serving Katherine, and what potential pitfalls lie in such an alliance? This storyline is poised to weave together themes of trust, desperation, and the ever-present danger of supernatural forces within Mystic Falls.

The sheer number of intricate storylines converging in ‘She’s Come Undone’ underscores the high stakes of Season 4 as it rapidly approaches its conclusion. Every character is grappling with profound challenges, from the existential crisis of Elena’s humanity to the ongoing search for the cure, and the looming threat of Silas. The directors, Darnell Martin, and writers Michael Narducci & Rebecca Sonnenshine, have crafted an episode that promises to be both emotionally taxing and action-packed, forcing characters to confront their deepest fears and make impossible choices. The narrative explores the very essence of what it means to be human in a world teeming with supernatural beings, and the lengths to which love and desperation can push individuals.

As the final episodes of Season 4 draw near, the question of Elena’s humanity looms largest. Will Damon and Stefan’s brutal tactics succeed, or will Elena prove to be too far gone, embracing her newfound freedom from emotion? The psychological toll on all involved is immense, and the potential for irreparable damage to their relationships is a constant threat. The intervention is not merely a plot device; it’s a crucible for the characters, testing their love, their resolve, and their moral boundaries. The outcome will undoubtedly set the stage for a dramatic and unforgettable season finale, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.

HollywoodLifers, as we brace ourselves for this intense episode, how do you predict Elena’s highly anticipated — and brutally enforced — intervention will ultimately go down? Do you believe there is still genuine hope for her humanity to be fully restored, or has she crossed a point of no return where her true self is irrevocably altered? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!

— Andy Swift
Follow @AndySwift

More ‘Vampire Diaries’ Season 4 Scoop:

1. ‘Vampire Diaries’ Recap: Elena Dances With Stefan, Danger At Prom
2. ‘Vampire Diaries’ Season Finale: Nina Dobrev Tweets A Pic Of ‘Graduation’
3. ‘Vampire Diaries’ Scoop: ‘Ghosts’ Are Coming To Mystic Falls For ‘Revenge’